Is emphysema serious?

  The severity of emphysema depends on the stage of the disease. Usually the disease is mild in the early stage, but the disease is not well controlled, which can lead to recurrence and aggravation of the disease.  In early stage emphysema, the injured elastic fibers in the lungs can be repaired through a series of treatments, and most patients can have their symptoms relieved and their quality of life improved after treatment. If early treatment is not timely, recurrence and aggravation of the disease can occur, and eventually complications such as respiratory dysfunction and heart failure can occur, and symptoms such as difficulty in breathing, swelling of the lower limbs and inability to lie down can occur, requiring ventilator-assisted treatment, which can lead to patients’ inability to take care of themselves in serious cases.  Patients with emphysema should pay attention to drink more water and avoid drinking alcohol. A mask should be worn outside and attention should be paid to keeping warm and preventing colds. Avoid eating spicy and stimulating foods and eat more vitamin-rich vegetables and fruits. Emotional stability should be maintained, and moderate participation in outdoor sports can enhance physical fitness and improve resistance.