Living with emphysema and nutrition

Lung disorders are considered any condition that affects the passage of air to and from the lungs. These conditions can be as minute as colds or the flu to chronic diseases such as asthma. If ever there is a pattern of difficulty breathing, a doctor should be contacted immediately. There are a few lung disorders that are more severe than a cold or the flu. These disorders such as bronchitis, pneumonia or emphysema may all be derive from one another.


In the medical world bronchitis is usually diagnosed when symptoms of difficulty breathing and a non-stop coughing with production of a thick mucus appear. Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi, which is a tube that carries air to and from the lungs. When the bronchi is inflamed it swells and does not provide enough airflow to the lungs, this is what causes the difficult breathing. When the lungs are unable to get enough air this is a setting for infection. The infection is what produces the thick mucus in the lungs. Bronchitis can be treated with antibiotics, which takes approximately seven to ten days to reduce inflammation.



If bronchitis is left unattended or there is a reoccurring infection they may lead to emphysema. Emphysema is a gradual disease; it progresses through the years. Emphysema is a deadly disease; its symptoms include shortness of breath and air sacs filled with fluid.


Pneumonia is usually caused from the flu that has developed more infection. The symptoms of pneumonia heavy coughing, heavy mucus buildup, high fever, chills and chest pain.


Having a healthy diet can prevent respiratory infections, because people who are normally healthy are able to fight off these infections. If a respiratory infection occurs remember to drink plenty of liquids this will help thin out mucus buildup and this will help you breathe easier.