Best Emphysema Doctors in Mysore

Emphysema is a type of lung disease known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The condition involves irreversible damage to the lungs, leading to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and breathing difficulties. Essentially, emphysema occurs when the air sacs within the lungs sustain damage or stretch. This leads to a decrease in the lungs' ability to function. Whilst smoking is identified as the primary cause of emphysema, other factors such as air pollution, occupational exposure, and certain genetic disorders can also contribute to its development.

Mysore, a city steeped in royalty and natural beauty, is implementing plans to create a healthier environment, aiming to reduce respiratory problems like emphysema. Factors like increased vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and high smoking rates contribute to this problem. Fortunately, Apollo Hospitals in Mysore has some of the best emphysema doctors offering world-class treatment to patients suffering from this condition.

Types/Stages of Emphysema

Emphysema is categorised into four stages based on lung capacity and functionality:

• Mild Emphysema: Lung function is slightly impaired but may not be noticeable day-to-day.

• Moderate Emphysema: Symptoms become more noticeable and start affecting routine activities.

• Severe Emphysema: Breathing difficulties increase significantly and can disrupt sleep patterns.

• Very Severe Emphysema: The patient's lungs are functioning at less than 30% of the capacity expected for someone of their age, height, and sex. This significantly impacts their ability to breathe.

  Symptoms of Emphysema

The onset of emphysema brings about several recognisable symptoms:

• Persistent coughing

• Shortness of breath

• Wheezing

• Tightness in your chest.

• Fatigue due to decreased oxygen levels in the body

  Tests to Diagnose Emphysema

At Apollo Hospitals, the best emphysema doctors diagnose emphysema through a series of tests:

• Pulmonary Function Test: This test assesses lung function by measuring how efficiently your lungs take in and release air.

• Chest X-ray: X-rays are more useful in diagnosing moderate or severe emphysema.

• CT Scan: A CT scan provides a detailed picture of the lungs and can reveal damage caused by emphysema.

• Arterial blood gas (ABG) test: This test measures the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood from an artery (arterial blood).

  Treatment or Surgery Options for Emphysema at Apollo Hospitals in Mysore:

Doctors for emphysema treatment at Apollo Hospitals in Mysore provide a comprehensive range of treatment options for emphysema:

• Lifestyle Changes: Recommendations include quitting smoking, avoiding lung irritants, and engaging in regular physical activity.

• Medication: Bronchodilators, steroids, and antibiotics are prescribed to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

• Oxygen Therapy: In severe cases with low oxygen levels in the blood, supplemental oxygen may be provided.

• Pulmonary Rehabilitation: This includes exercise programmes, disease management training, and psychological counselling.

• Surgery: In the most severe cases, when other treatments aren't effective, surgical options like lung volume reduction surgery or lung transplantation are considered.