Emphysema

Description

Emphysema is a degenerative lung condition where the air sacs in the lungs (alveoli) are damaged leading to shortness of breath and difficulty in breathing. This most often results from smoking or the inhalation of other irritants and toxins that fill the air. Emphysema forms part of a group of lung conditions that is referred to as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). COPD is a major cause of disability and death in many countries.

Symptoms

1. Frequent coughing or wheezing is experienced, where a “Smoker’s cough” will typically precede the onset of the disease.
2. A mild or severe cough that produces a lot of mucus.
3. Shortness of breath, especially during and after physical activity.
4. A whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe.
5. Tightness in the chest.

(In some cases, there are no symptoms, and emphysema is only discovered post-mortem)

Treatments

1. Expectorating can be done to drain the mucus in the lungs once or twice a day. Lay face down on a bed, with the upper part of the body hanging off the edge of the bed, using the forearms for support. Have someone tap on the back with a flat hand and place a basin on the floor near the head to cough into. Do this for 5 to 10 minutes. (This procedure requires assistance).

2. Steam inhalation may be helpful to expectorate phlegm from the lungs. Breathe over a pot of steamy hot water with a towel draped over the head and the pot to prevent steam loss. A few drops of Eucalyptus oil should be added to the water.

3. Regular daily exercise can be beneficial for people suffering from emphysema as it improves circulation, increases endurance, and reduces breathlessness. Start with any amount you are able to do then gradually increase it little by little as you are able.

4. Using a humidifier may assist especially if congestion and heavy discharges of sputum are experienced.

5. Dietary interventions will be required (see below)

6. Avoid dust, air pollution, chemical fumes, aerosol products, cigarette smoke, perfumes, cooking with gas stoves, plastic items, and animal fur/hair

7. Intravenous ozone therapy can be particularly beneficial for lung conditions

8. Breathing exercises can help improve lung function

Nutrients and supplements:
1. Lung formula – for breathing difficulties, emphysema, pneumonia, restoring collapsed lungs, lung tissue, and tuberculosis.
2. Oxy 35 – for oxygenating the body.
3. Cell oxygen – helps To improve oxygenation in the body.
4. Zinc – an antioxidant with protective lung protein properties.
5. L-cysteine – an antioxidant that aids with lung repair.
6. L-methionine – an antioxidant that aids with lung repair.
7. Kelp – contains minerals required for healing and breathing.
8. Complete Amino Acid Blend -assists with lung repair.
9. Vitamin E – is an antioxidant with oxygen-carrying properties.
10. Buffered Vitamin C – strengthens the immune system and helps to heal inflamed tissue.

Causes

Smoking is the primary cause of emphysema, it may also be caused by exposure to other inhaled irritants. These include secondhand smoke, air pollution, chemical fumes, or environmental dust. In Rare instances, a genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency can play a role in causing emphysema.

Underlying Emotions

The symbolism of many of the lung-related symptoms may relate to being emotionally hurt, not feeling worthy, wanting to give up, and having a fear of living life fully.

The mucous which often accompanies lung conditions is a physical manifestation of unshed tears where grief is so often an underlying component. This grief may span over several generations including death, loss, abandonment, and orphaned children.

Diet

Dietary guidelines for emphysema will include the following:
Ensure that you eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Consume at least 1 salad and 2 pieces of fruit daily. Include yellow vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potato, or squash, these need to be eaten daily for their vitamin A content.

In general, the following eating principles should be adhered to:
a. Maintain a moderately low-fat diet
b. Consume high complex whole carbohydrates
c. Eat foods rich in Vitamins A and E

Avoid the following foods:

1) All dairy products such as milk, cheese, and ice cream. Dairy products produce mucus, which makes respiration more difficult.

2) Sugar-containing foods. These slow the healing process. Replace sweets, chocolates, and pastries with fruits and diluted fruit juices.

3) White flour products, refined, processed fried and greasy foods, oranges, tofu, tomatoes meat, and shellfish.

4) Gas-forming foods such as cabbage and legumes should be avoided as these can cause abdominal distention which may interfere with breathing.

Remedies