Restricted emphysema does not usually heal on its own.
Because restrictive emphysema is an irreversible pathological state, it will not be cured on its own, and can only be controlled by general measures, medication, surgery, etc. If there are no symptoms, no treatment is needed.
1. General measures: patients need to strengthen the intake of nutrients, eat more food with higher nutritional value, avoid contact with disease-causing factors and get rid of the polluted environment. Some patients with severe symptoms need long-term home oxygen therapy.
2. Pharmacological treatment: patients with cough, sputum, shortness of breath, wheezing and other symptoms need to follow the doctor’s instructions to apply glucocorticosteroids such as budesonide, fluticasone, albuterol sulfate aerosol and other β₂-receptor stimulants, as well as ipratropium bromide and other anticholinergic drugs. There are also expectorants such as bromhexine, ambroxol hydrochloride, and acetylcysteine.
3. Surgical treatment: When limited emphysema develops further, surgical treatment such as pulmonary herniorrhaphy and lung volume reduction surgery can be performed if surgery is indicated.
In general, no treatment is needed for asymptomatic patients with restrictive emphysema, but it is recommended to have regular follow-ups so that the doctor can understand the changes in the condition.
Patients with limited emphysema need to strengthen their daily life management and cooperate with doctors for standardized treatment if necessary. The above medications should be used under the supervision of a physician.