I was told friday i have emphysema. My mom aunt and uncle have it. Grandfather died from it. My uncle is stage 4 on oxygen 24hours and a prednisone my mom is stage 3 and she has a hard time all the time. My uncle is out of air none in none out. What I want to know is if I quit smoking if i could live 30 years with emphysema im 50 now i feel im on stage one i can still walk 5 blocks without stopping and my heart doesnt race.
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. Smoking is the most common causative factor for emphysema. And it can be more harmful if patient is having strong family history of emphysema. So in your case first you have to stop smoking as soon as possible. This is the most vital part of emphysema treatment. Also get done PFT (Pulmonary Function Test). This will tell you about severity of the disease. And treatment of emphysema is based on severity only. You may need inhaled bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroid. Also start deep breathing exercises and chest physiotherapy. This will improve lung functions. So consult pulmonologist, discuss all these and start appropriate treatment. Hope I have solved your query. Wish you good health. Thanks.