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Emphysema

Definition

• Emphysema is a disease in which the alveoli (tiny air sacs) of the lung become damaged. This results in a decrease in respiratory function (the lungs don't work as well) and often, breathlessness.

  Early symptoms of emphysema include shortness of breath and cough. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis together comprise chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Additional Info

Get fresh air pumps, supplied air respirators, fume extractors and other respiratory protection products at Safety Emporium.

Smoking is by far the major risk factor (cause) of emphysema, accounting for 82% of COPD cases according to the American Lung Association. Certain individuals are also genetically disposed towards emphysema; this form is called alpha 1-antitrypsin (AAT) emphysema. Extensive smoking can lead to irreparable lung damage, even if you quit smoking. In these cases, the condition is not likely to improve and death by respiratory or cardiac (heart) failure is the inevitable outcome (months to years). Is smoking worth three years on a respirator as your body wastes away? Quit today, if not for yourself then for your friends and families who don't want to deal with that.

Books Available

• "The Chronic Bronchitis and Emphysema Handbook", Paperback, 318 pages, 2000. Estimated price $11.17. Info and/or order .
• "Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Practical, Medical, and Spiritual Guidelines for Daily Living With Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis, and combinat", Paperback, 200 pages, 1999. Estimated price $12.00. Info and/or order.

MSDS Relevance

Emphysema can be aggravated by air pollution or exposure to certain chemicals. The first action you can take to avoid emphysema is to make sure you do not inhale smoke, especially cigarette smoke. Avoid workplace exposure to chemicals that have irritating vapors or dusts.

Additional Reading

• The American Lung Association's page on emphysema.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) at Yahoo! Health, including symptoms and treatments.
• In addition to killing people, Big Tobacco makes many everyday products - products that some people refuse to purchase.

See also: asthma, dust

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is believed to be true and accurate, however ILPI makes no guarantees concerning the veracity of any statement. Use of any information on this page is at the reader's own risk. ILPI strongly encourages the reader to consult the appropriate local, state and federal agencies concerning the matters discussed herein.