Treatment of emphysema with folk remedies: is non-drug treatment possible? Effective treatment of emphysema Vegetables, berries, fruits and juices from them.

The main source of oxygen in our blood is the respiratory system. A person cannot live without sufficient oxygen supply to the blood, because... it transports it to all organs of the body. It is very important that the respiratory function is performed quite easily and painlessly.

What is emphysema?

Emphysema is a fairly serious disease that is increasingly more people exposed. First of all, the disease emphysema is characterized by an increase in the volume of the alveoli, which is facilitated by the fact that the partitions between the alveoli burst and the lungs increase, but at the same time they are flabby and the respiratory passages are significantly narrowed. There are 2 types of the disease: acute pulmonary emphysema and chronic pulmonary emphysema.

Symptoms of emphysema

First of all, the symptoms of pulmonary emphysema are: a sharp decline oxygen in the blood and difficulty breathing. But at the same time, not only does oxygen become less, the amount of carbon dioxide increases, which has an adverse effect on the body. Such manifestations of the disease emphysema are observed over more late stages. The first symptoms of pulmonary emphysema are considered to be: shortness of breath during short-term exertion, then shortness of breath occurs during rest, therefore, physical activity is increasingly difficult and productivity decreases; outwardly, the patient may have a barrel-shaped chest, a reddish tint to the skin of the face, a thin physique, lips with when a person exhales, they are folded into a tube.

Why does pulmonary emphysema appear?

There can be several causes of pulmonary emphysema. First of all, it can be inherited if a person has a reduced level of alpha-1 antitrypsin protein. This is very serious reason for detailed periodic examination, after all, hereditary form The disease very quickly develops into acute pulmonary emphysema. Emphysema can also be caused by a serious disease of the lungs or bronchi. But these are not the main reasons why this disease occurs in more people every year. The main category of people who have signs of emphysema- This smoking people. When smoking, a large amount of substances enter the lungs, contributing to the destruction of the walls of the alveoli. At the same time, the level of alpha-1 atytrypsin protein may be normal. In smokers, the disease progresses at an accelerated pace and is also possible fast development acute pulmonary emphysema.

How is emphysema diagnosed?

Diagnosis of emphysema is mainly carried out using x-ray examination. To clarify the extent of the disease, functional testing may also be prescribed. Diagnosis of emphysema, which will determine broncho-obstructive syndrome and air fullness of the lungs.

How to treat pulmonary emphysema using traditional methods

This disease can be compensatory or generalized. Compensatory chronic pulmonary emphysema, which mainly appears with pneumosclerosis, does not require treatment. Treatment of other types of emphysema is necessary in mandatory. In acute generalized pulmonary emphysema, treatment is carried out with an emphasis on the underlying disease, but methods are added to help combat obstruction. This form of emphysema is scary because with frequent relapses or insufficient measures to combat obstruction, the acute form can develop into chronic pulmonary emphysema. But with proper treatment of pulmonary emphysema, the prognosis is quite comforting and guarantees a complete recovery. For chronic generalized pulmonary emphysema, treatment is also aimed at the underlying disease. In this case, methods are needed to help rehabilitate patency respiratory tract by eliminating bronchospasm or clearing the bronchi of excessive secretions. For this purpose, the basic treatment includes: taking mucolytic drugs, inhalations alkaline solutions and vibration massage with postural drainage. In combination with inflammatory processes With this type of pulmonary emphysema, the prognosis is given for further treatment of cor pulmonale.

Home Remedies for Emphysema Treatment

Home treatment emphysema folk remedies aimed at cleansing the lungs of excessive secretions.

Recipe. Treatment of emphysema with green potato tops. With this treatment, juice is squeezed out of green potato tops and taken in portions every day. In the first stages, juice intake should be limited to 0.5 teaspoon, and then gradually increased to 0.5 cup (~100 ml).

Recipe. Treatment of pulmonary emphysema with potato inhalation. This treatment should be used immediately at the first signs of emphysema, because side effects it doesn't give. To carry out inhalations, use peelings of well-washed potatoes, which are immersed in water and brought to a boil. This treatment is recommended not only for emphysema, but also for many others related to the respiratory system.

Recipe. Treatment of emphysema with boiled potatoes. This method can be used even for emphysema, the symptoms of which indicate more acute illness. Boiled potatoes are cut in half and, smeared with turpentine ointment or goat fat, applied to the chest in the lung area. This technique helps make it a little easier respiratory process, expanding the airways.

Treatment of emphysema with decoctions and herbs

At emphysema treatment with folk remedies give quite impressive results, so they are used often. In addition, almost every healer or herbalist knows how to treat pulmonary emphysema. The herbs and herbs used are simple and common.

Recipe. Treatment of emphysema with herbs. To prepare a collection that will help you if you have closed form oxygen deficiency, you will need 2 parts of horsetail herb and one part each of the following ingredients: caraway fruits, common fennel fruits and spring adonis. This mixture in the amount of 1 tablespoon should be poured with a glass of boiling water (200 ml) and left for several hours. Afterwards, take a third of a glass of strained infusion 3 r. in a day.

Recipe. Treatment of emphysema with an infusion of juniper, dandelion and birch leaves. To prepare this infusion, you need to take 2 parts of birch leaves and one part each of common dandelion root and juniper fruit. As in the previous recipe, pour 1 tablespoon of the mixture into a glass of boiling water, leave and strain. The infusion is also taken in a third of a glass for at least 3 r. in a day. It is better if you drink this infusion an hour after eating. Treatment with this mixture is quite long - about 3 months, but absolutely safe and effective.

Recipe. Treatment of pulmonary emphysema with buckwheat. A decoction is prepared from buckwheat flowers. To do this, take 3 tablespoons of flowers and brew them in 500 ml of water. It is recommended to infuse this decoction in a thermos for about 2 hours. And you need to take it in portions, 0.5-1 glass at a time, up to 4 r. in a day.

Recipe. Treatment of pulmonary emphysema with sivec and mellis. This tincture is made on the basis of 20 g of dried meadow inflorescences and 50 g of dried and crushed lemon balm. All this is poured with a liter of dry white wine and left for a day. Do not forget that the tincture must be shaken several times and strained before taking. This tincture is recommended not only for daily systematic intake of 0.5 cups 2 r. per day, but also during attacks.

Recipe. Treatment of emphysema with infusion of potato flowers. Potatoes are a universal plant and not only tubers and tops, but also flowers are useful for medicines. You only need a teaspoon of these flowers. They are poured with a glass of boiling water and left for 1-2 hours. After this, the strained infusion is taken in 0.5 cups 3 r. per day 40 minutes before meals. Treatment with this infusion lasts about a month and is recommended if there is shortness of breath.

Recipe. Treatment of emphysema with an infusion of many ingredients. This infusion is also recommended for shortness of breath. To prepare it, you need to take in equal proportions: sage leaves, elecampane root, mint leaves, eucalyptus leaves and thyme. 1 tablespoon of this collection is poured with 1 glass of boiling water, infused and filtered. You need to take the decoction in a quarter cup (50 ml) 3 times. per day after meals.

Recipe. Treatment of emphysema with an infusion of anise fruits, pine buds, roots and sage. 1 cup of boiling water is poured into 1 tablespoon of a mixture of the following ingredients that are required in equal proportions: marshmallow and licorice roots, sage leaves, pine buds and anise fruits. All this is infused and filtered. Take a quarter glass (50 ml) 3-4 r. before meals. in a day.

Prevention of emphysema

The main factor that influences the occurrence of emphysema in healthy people without hereditary predispositions, is smoking, so quitting smoking can save you from this terrible disease. Do not forget that passive smoking(smoke inhalation while someone nearby is smoking) is more dangerous than active smoking and can also cause lung problems. Walking in areas where the air is not polluted, for example, in the forest or near salt water bodies, is also useful. This will not only help the lungs open as best as possible, but will also saturate the blood with oxygen. For those who have already suffered emphysema, it will be useful to learn proper breathing– inhale and exhale with your stomach, exhale with closed lips, etc. And, of course, at the first symptoms of lung or bronchi diseases, contact specialists to receive the correct appropriate treatment - this will help avoid many complications, including pulmonary emphysema.

Emphysema is considered sufficient serious illness, which can cause negative consequences.

To avoid this, it is very important to get specialist advice in a timely manner.

As a complement to traditional remedies, folk remedies are used to treat emphysema.

The essence of pathology

Many people are interested in what emphysema is and why it is dangerous.

This term refers to a pathology in which the alveoli stretch too much. As a result, they cannot fully contract, which leads to disruption of the supply of oxygen to the blood and the removal of carbon dioxide.

This condition causes the development respiratory failure.

In most cases it is observed complete defeat lungs. In such a situation, diffuse emphysema is diagnosed..

However, sometimes stretched areas are combined with healthy tissue. These areas are called bullae. In this case we're talking about about bullous emphysema.

Emphysema

Causes

The main causes of emphysema are smoking and chronic bronchitis.

However, sometimes the following are triggering factors:

  1. Respiratory system defects. This anomaly is caused by congenital diseases. They provoke the development of diffuse emphysema.
  2. Deformation of the thoracic region.
  3. Poor blood circulation or lymph flow.
  4. Traumatic injuries and surgical interventions.
  5. Toxic substances inhaled by humans.

Symptoms

The main manifestations of the disease include the following:

Treatment of pulmonary emphysema at home can be carried out only after consulting a pulmonologist or therapist. Typically, therapy is aimed at reducing the symptoms of respiratory failure and preventing the progression of the disease.

The answer to the question whether the pathology is curable is negative. Full recovery with this diagnosis is impossible.

If the patient smokes, it is very important to stop smoking addiction . Experts also advise minimizing respiratory contact with toxic substances.

Non-drug therapy methods are actively used:

In case of exacerbation of inflammation, it will not be possible to do without drug therapy. It includes antibiotics, agents for dilating bronchi and removing phlegm.

Before treating emphysema with folk remedies, you should definitely consult a doctor. Typically, medicinal herbs are used in addition to primary therapy.

One of the most effective means is an infusion of garlic. For cooking this tool you need to take 10 heads of garlic, 1 kg of honey and 10 medium lemons. Garlic and lemons need to be peeled. Chop the garlic and squeeze the juice from the lemons.

Mix all ingredients and place in a glass container. Close and place in a dark place. After a week, you can start therapy. To cope with the disease, you should take 4 teaspoons of the product every day.

Very effective means Inhalations are considered for pulmonary emphysema. To do this, garlic infusion should be added to water solution soda Essential oils of this plant provide cleansing of the bronchi and remove toxic substances.

In addition, the following drugs can be used to treat pulmonary emphysema:

Rehabilitation after an exacerbation of emphysema must include massage. Thanks to this procedure, it is possible to improve the removal of sputum and expand the bronchi.

Help solve these problems different kinds massage – classic, acupressure, segmental. However, it is believed that it is acupressure most effectively expands the bronchi.

Therapeutic exercises for pulmonary emphysema also have great importance . With the development of this pathology, the respiratory muscles are in constant tone, therefore their increased fatigue is observed.

To avoid overvoltage muscle tissue, you should perform special exercises.

Breathing exercises for pulmonary emphysema include the following complex:

  1. After take a deep breath you need to hold your breath for a while. Then the air is exhaled in small bursts. In this case, your lips need to be folded into a tube. It is important to ensure that your cheeks do not puff out.
  2. After a strong inhalation, hold your breath, then exhale with a sharp push through your open mouth. At the end of the exhalation, the lips are folded into a tube.
  3. Take a strong breath and hold your breath. Stretch your arms forward, clench your fingers into a fist. Bring your arms to your shoulders, slowly spread them to the sides and return them to your shoulders. Repeat the cycle 2-3 times, then exhale strongly.
  4. Calculate in your head: inhale – 12 seconds, hold your breath for 48 seconds, exhale – 24 seconds. Repeat the cycle 2-3 times.

Forecast

Emphysema is considered a complication of bronchopulmonary pathologies. This means that changes in the lungs are irreversible.

Therefore, treatment is aimed at slowing the progression of the disease and reducing symptoms of respiratory failure by improving bronchial patency.

Therefore, the forecast depends on a number of factors. These include the timeliness of therapy, patient compliance with recommendations, and the duration of the pathology.

In any case, the disease cannot be completely eliminated.. If the provoking disease is characterized by a stable course, the prognosis for emphysema is favorable.

With decompensated bronchial pathologies, the course of emphysema can be very complex. Significant improvements in such a situation occur very rarely.

Life expectancy is determined by the degree of compensation for the anomaly, age and the presence of concomitant pathologies. In such a situation, the answer to the question of whether emphysema gives disability should be affirmative.

Consequences

Why is emphysema dangerous? This question worries many. Doctors say that complications of the disease can lead to fatal outcome. These include the following:

Prevention of the development of pathology includes the following components:

Emphysema is considered a fairly serious disease that can cause negative health consequences. To avoid complications, it is very important to start treatment of the disease on time.

As a complement to standard therapy, it is worth using effective folk remedies.

A disease of the respiratory system, which is characterized by impaired gas exchange in blood vessels lungs: between the intake of oxygen and the removal of carbon dioxide from the blood, according to medical terminology, called pulmonary emphysema.

This pathology leads to excessive stretching of the walls of the alveoli lung tissue, weakening of the contractile function of the lungs, increasing volume and air retention in them. As a result, respiratory function and ventilation of the lungs are impaired.


The causes of this serious disease are:

  1. Bronchial asthma.
  2. Smoking.
  3. Contaminated air.

Symptoms of the disease:

  1. Heart failure.
  2. Increased sizes chest(barrel sternum).
  3. Divergence of the rib bones.
  4. Expansion of the supraclavicular areas.

Treatment of the disease should begin at the earliest stage. During this period there are chronic bronchitis which, without proper treatment, lead to irreversible changes in lung tissue.

How is the disease treated?

Prescribed: oxygen therapy, special breathing exercises, drugs that remove sputum from the lungs and bronchi and dilute it, as well as antispasmodic drugs.

Without adequate therapeutic treatment in case of complications with pulmonary emphysema, surgical intervention is often resorted to. Its essence comes down to the removal of bullae (tense bubbles filled with air in the lungs).

As complementary therapy When treating the initial form (bullous), it is recommended to use some folk remedies. Let's get to know them better.

Folk remedies for emphysema

1. For emphysema, you can use potato inhalations. They will improve respiratory function and reduce the symptoms of the disease. The potatoes are thoroughly washed and boiled in their skins until tender. Warm steam is inhaled while covered with a blanket.

2. For emphysema against the background of bronchitis, you can do inhalations with a decoction of wild rosemary. For half a liter of boiling water, take two tablespoons of herbs. Heat for 20 minutes in a steam bath. The broth is poured into an inhaler or its vapor is inhaled over a regular saucepan. This remedy from wild rosemary can also be taken orally. Directions for use: Take a tablespoon of decoction three times a day before meals.

3. Reduce sputum production and improve breathing inhalation with a decoction of eucalyptus leaves. Add a pinch of crushed eucalyptus raw material into one liter of boiling water. Boil the potion for 5-7 minutes, cool slightly so as not to burn the mucous membrane of the throat and inhale the steam. The procedures are carried out twice a day.

3. Pine needles are crushed, and a spoonful of such raw materials is thrown into half a liter of boiling water. Boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and inhale with the decoction.

4. Aromatherapy should be used for emphysema. Inhalation essential oils Lavender, eucalyptus, benzoin, sandalwood, bergamot and chamomile have a beneficial effect on lung recovery. They are added to the aroma lamp and breathing procedures are carried out at least twice a day until the emphysema is completely cured.

5. Coltsfoot decoction helps eliminate the symptoms of the initial form of the disease. A tablespoon of plant leaves is poured with water (0.5 l) and put on fire. Boil for 1 minute and then infuse. Take the finished potion at least 4-5 times a day. The course of treatment is carried out for 1-2 months.

6. A decoction of cyanosis helps with pulmonary emphysema. To do this, grind a tablespoon of the roots of the plant and pour a cup of boiling water. Boil and leave for two hours. Take the finished, strained potion one tablespoon four times a day.

7. Licorice gives excellent results in the treatment of this pulmonary disease. The root of the plant is used for this. Two large spoons of plant mass are poured with hot (at least 95 degrees) water (500 ml) and left under a tightly closed lid in a steam bath for 45 minutes. Take the drug one spoon at least three times a day. For elimination pathological processes in the lungs, the course of treatment should be continued for at least 2 weeks.

8. A collection of herbs helps eliminate the symptoms of a serious lung disease: centaury, coltsfoot, scolopendra stone and linden inflorescences. Take 50 grams of each plant and mix. One large spoon of the herbal mixture is poured with boiling water (250 ml) and heated in a steam bath. After this, pour everything into a thermos, add a teaspoon of flax seed and leave for another hour. To restore the function of lung tissue, the finished potion should be taken a tablespoon at least 4-5 times a day.

9. For pulmonary disease, accompanied by a cough with the release of viscous and purulent sputum, a collection of the following plants is widely used: pine buds (20 g), thyme (10 g), violet (15 g), sundew (420 g) and plantain leaves (400 g). It is also recommended to add a spoonful of dried herb here. Next, take two spoons of the herbal mixture and pour 320 milliliters of hot boiling water. Insist and after filtering take 50 milliliters of the drug every 4 hours.

10. The following collection will help restore gas exchange in the lungs and eliminate pathology: juniper berries, birch leaves, dandelion roots. Everyone is taken in equal volumes and mix. Place two spoons of the mixture in a saucepan and pour in boiling water (250 ml). Leave for three hours in a thermos. Warm and strained potion is taken 200 milliliters in the morning and after dinner.

11. For emphysema accompanied by severe cough, you can prepare such a remedy according to next recipe. Take a lemon. Boil it in 500 milliliters of water over low heat for about two hours. Next, cut the citrus in half, squeeze all the juice into a glass and add two tablespoons of glycerin. Beat this mixture and pour in honey almost to the top. Mix everything again. Take the medicine up to 7 times a day. Course of treatment: until the symptoms of the disease decrease.

Prevention of lung diseases

To prevent lung diseases, you need to avoid bad habit– smoking and exercising in a healthy way life. Helps you avoid this disease timely treatment acute bronchitis.

Beware of respiratory exposure to contaminated air masses. Dusty industrial premises containing acids, alkalis, combustion products and various chemical particles in the air often cause lung diseases, including emphysema.

The sooner the disease is diagnosed, prescribed and started correct treatment, the faster the disease will recede. Therefore, at the first signs of this terrible disease, you should urgently contact a therapist or pulmonologist. Only a doctor will prevent the occurrence of dangerous complications and provide competent medical care.

Emphysema is a fairly common disease of the respiratory system, according to statistics, affecting about 4% of the world's population. Moreover, more often this pathology diagnosed in those who constantly smoke, especially in men under the age of 40.

Treatment of emphysema with folk remedies is acceptable, but only in combination with traditional methods impact.

In order to understand what pulmonary emphysema is, you need minimal knowledge about the structure pulmonary system and the gas exchange process taking place in them. The air entering the pulmonary cavity descends into the alveolar part, where gas exchange occurs - carbon dioxide in the blood it is replaced by oxygen, and when exhaled it is eliminated into the surrounding space.

When the lungs are healthy, the alveoli are represented by miniature air chambers that have elastic walls. If these walls are damaged, a combined air circulation space is formed, which disrupts normal gas exchange and creates a voluminous air cavity inside the lung. Natural gas exchange disrupted as a result of such destruction of the pulmonary system is called emphysema.

Important! It should be noted that the danger of this pathology lies not only in the appearance of an air sac, but also in the disruption of the oxygen supply to the body.

The main reasons for the development of such pathological disorder, can be divided into two separate groups, by which the primary and secondary types of emphysema are determined.

The primary type of pathology is characterized by the following reasons:

  • inhalation of contaminated small particles air;
  • volatile toxic compounds;
  • long history of smoking.

Which implies a direct obstructive effect of foreign substances classified as poisonous and toxic.

Attention! The generally accepted instructions for the treatment of pathology suggest an absolute rejection of nicotine addiction.

For secondary emphysema, the characteristic causes are progressive pulmonary diseases, including the chronic type:

  • pneumonia;
  • obstructive bronchitis;
  • bronchial asthma.

It is possible to determine developing pulmonary emphysema by symptomatic indications, which manifest themselves as follows:

  • increased fatigue, especially during physical activity;
  • constant general weakness;
  • decreased breathing and dizziness;
  • the presence of shortness of breath even at rest;
  • changes in the size and shape of the chest.

If such symptomatic data are detected, it is recommended to immediately contact medical institution me to undergo an examination, diagnose the disease and prescribe the optimal treatment method for the pathology. If emphysema is confirmed, then following the instructions of a specialist is vital. an important condition treatment, since this disease can lead to severe complications, including heart failure.

Traditional treatments for emphysema

The primary condition for the treatment of pulmonary emphysema is to reduce the toxic effect on the lung tissue - stopping smoking, staying in rooms contaminated with volatile compounds without special protection, etc. In the case of primary emphysema, following this nuance gives a positive prognosis.

But even for patients with a secondary type of disease, this measure of reducing the load on the pulmonary system is an excellent aid in treatment. Often medical specialists recommend refusing to work with chemicals and change their place of residence to a more environmentally friendly region.

Worth noticing! Residence in areas close to salty bodies of water and coniferous forests allows you to cleanse the lungs and open them completely, which will improve the quality of the gas exchange process and increase human life expectancy.

The main directions of the conservative treatment option are:

  1. Removal of accumulating pulmonary exudate to facilitate the gas exchange process and prevent infectious diseases.
  2. Slowing down the destructive processes of tissues of the pulmonary system through glucocorticosteroid drugs and A1-antitrypsin inhibitors.
  3. Relaxation of smooth muscle tissue of the respiratory system through bronchodilator drugs.
  4. Additional nutrition of lung tissue due to increased consumption of foods containing vitamin E and its additional medicinal use.

Treatment of pulmonary emphysema at home can only be done under the supervision of a doctor. The drugs themselves and their combinations are selected only by the treating specialist, as they require regular adjustments depending on the current state of the body and the dynamics of treatment.

Depending on the severity pathological changes in lung tissues is allowed as outpatient observation with regular visits to the doctor, and hospital treatment the patient under constant monitoring of the condition and intravenous use drugs. In addition to the medicinal part of the treatment process, exercise therapy procedures can be used ( breathing exercises and other exercises that strengthen the respiratory system), inhalations (usually soft ones using a nebulizer), massage therapy and some techniques traditional medicine.

If the effectiveness of treatment is low, then a lung transplant may be performed.

About danger self-treatment The video in this article will tell you about pulmonary emphysema at home.

Folk remedies

The use of traditional medicine can be an excellent addition to the main treatment of emphysema and even replace some medications. The results that can be achieved by combining the traditional approach with folk remedies are quite high and make it possible to transfer the disease into a state of long-term remission.

However, selecting funds in this category is a very responsible task that requires specific knowledge, so it is recommended to first consult with your doctor.

General selection principles traditional medicines correspond to traditional ones, that is, a choice is made of those means that act in this way:

  • facilitate the removal of exudate from the pulmonary cavity;
  • have a retarding effect on tissue destruction;
  • relaxes the muscles of the respiratory system.

This implies direct analogues synthetic drugs among natural herbs and their fees. What folk remedies are used to treat emphysema and how to achieve the effectiveness of such therapy?

Mucolytics

This category of medications has an expectorant effect and allows you to maximally cleanse the lung cavity of mucus accumulating there. This effect leads to a general relief of breathing and will avoid the development of infectious complications of emphysema.

Typically, decoctions of the following plant components are used in this capacity:

  • elecampane (pictured);
  • eucalyptus;
  • licorice;
  • raspberry (leaves);
  • thyme;
  • yarrow.

The decoction is prepared in accordance with the following proportions - 1 tablespoon of dried plant component per 1 glass of water. Infusion of such a medicine requires at least 30 minutes, and it should be consumed 3 times a day.

It is necessary to use mucolytic drugs for pulmonary emphysema on a regular basis, but the use of one drug for more than a two-week period is contraindicated. Separate means Traditional medicine used as a mucolytic is warm grape juice.

Important! Use herbal remedies with a mucolytic effect is possible only after consultation with a specialist. In some cases, the doctor may prohibit their use.

Breathing relief techniques

To facilitate the breathing process and general relaxation of the muscles of a person suffering from emphysema, it is necessary to expand the channels and lung cavities. The best way is to use warming procedures.

One of the safest and most convenient procedures for the patient in this area is warming the chest with boiled potatoes, which requires:

  1. Boil several medium-sized potato tubers.
  2. Allow some time for partial cooling and cut.
  3. Place the potatoes on the pre-greased chest until completely cooled.

Also good effect have inhalation procedures using steam from boiled potatoes or herbal infusions. However, when carrying out such inhalations, it is important to remember the need to maintain the temperature at a comfortable level, since exceeding it will burn the mucous membranes of the oral cavity and lungs, and decreasing it will negate all effectiveness.

  • eucalyptus leaves;
  • fir oil;
  • pine needles;
  • wild rosemary

Before performing the procedure, you should boil water and boil the components of the inhalation composition for 2-3 minutes. After the steam has reached a comfortable temperature, you can begin inhalation until the composition is completely cooled.

A separate technique to make the patient’s breathing easier is the use of aromatic therapy with the following oils:

  • sandalwood;
  • lavender;
  • chamomile;
  • bergamot.

Moreover, each of the listed oils must be completely natural, otherwise the effectiveness will be very low. Aromatherapy should be carried out using an aroma lamp (heated ceramic bowl) held at a distance of about 70 cm.

Slowing down the pathological process

The rate of progression of a pathology such as emphysema depends on many factors, the main of which are the general environmental condition environment and the body's immune resistance. In terms of slowing down the process of emphysema, folk remedies have practically no effect, but they have an immunomodulatory effect, due to which the body independently fights the pathological condition.

Among such recipes are the following decoctions, discussed in the table:

Popular recipes for natural, immunomodulating agents
Name Description (recipe) Characteristic photo
Recipe No. 1 Birch leaves, juniper needles and dandelion roots must be mixed in proportions - 2 parts / 1 part / 1 part. A tablespoon of the resulting mixture is calculated for 1 glass. hot water. The resulting decoction should be taken 1 teaspoon every 30 minutes. after meals 3 times a day.

Recipe No. 2 Licorice, anise, sage, marshmallow rhizomes and pine buds must be mixed in equal proportions. The resulting mixture is infused at the rate of 1 tablespoon of the composition per 1 glass of water for 2 hours. You need to take the resulting product 3 times a day, 2 teaspoons before meals.

Recipe No. 3 Horsetail, caraway seeds, spring adonis and fennel should be combined in proportion - 2 parts / 1 part / 1 part / 1 part. Prepare the infusion at the rate of 1 tablespoon of the mixture per 1 glass of boiling water, infuse for 30 minutes. Use a quarter glass at a time, 3 times a day.

Recipe No. 4 Eucalyptus, mint, elecampane rhizomes, thyme, and sage should be mixed in equal proportions. When preparing the medicine, a tablespoon of the dry mixture is poured with 1 glass of boiling water and infused for half an hour. You need to drink the resulting composition a quarter glass 3 times a day for 15 minutes. before eating.

If the patient has no contraindications to taking alcoholic drinks and other alcohol-containing products, it is possible to use another folk recipe:

  • 25 g of mint leaves and inflorescences;
  • 10 g of meadow seedling flowers;
  • 0.5 liters of dry white wine.

Preparation does not require much effort - just mix the herbal ingredients with wine and let the product brew for 24 hours. It is recommended to shake the mixture whenever possible during preparation. After infusion, you need to strain the resulting medicine and drink half a glass 2 times a day.

As a result of this substitution medications using traditional medicine, it is possible to reduce the system-wide load on the body. However, it should be borne in mind that some herbs indicated in recipes may be contraindicated for one reason or another ( allergic reactions or incompatibility with medications), therefore, additional consultation with a doctor and recommendations on the use of these techniques in combination with the main treatment program are required.

In any case, the patient must remember that the cost of self-medication can be extremely high, therefore any therapeutic manipulations on one’s own body can be carried out after full examination and with the permission of a specialist.

Emphysema is chronic illness, developing against the background of obstructive lesions of the bronchial tree and characterized by irreversible expansion of the alveolar sacs with destruction of their wall. Patients report shortness of breath and cough that cannot be treated. Pathology is observed in 4% of the world's population. The main group of people suffering from emphysema are middle-aged men (30–60 years old) who smoke for a long time. This lung disease causes dangerous complications and disability, therefore it is very important to consult a doctor at the first symptoms for timely diagnosis and therapy.

The occurrence of pathology occurs due to the influence of 2 main reasons, presented:

1. Impaired elasticity and strength of lung tissue:

  • Congenital deficiency of alpha-1-antitrypsin (a substance that prevents the destruction of the walls of the alveoli by proteolytic enzymes).
  • Congenital abnormalities of the lung structure.
  • Inhalation of polluted air (toxic substances damage the vasculature and epithelium, causing inflammation and activating proteolytic enzymes).
  • Dyshormonal conditions (disturbed estrogen-androgen balance leads to a decrease in the elasticity of the small bronchi, which causes overstretching of their walls and leads to the formation of bronchiectasis).
  • Infectious diseases (accumulated sputum stretches the alveoli, and released enzymes contribute to the destruction of the walls).
  • Degenerative changes (associated with deterioration of blood supply).

2. Increased pulmonary pressure:

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) develops due to incomplete ventilation of the alveoli.
  • Occupational hazards are associated with a decrease in the elasticity of the alveoli and bronchi and a deterioration in blood circulation in them.
  • Pulmonary tree obstruction ( foreign body, slime). The air accumulated in the alveoli has no way to escape. This phenomenon leads to acute emphysema.

According to doctors, determine exact reason emphysema is not allowed. The development of this anomaly combines several provoking factors acting simultaneously.

Symptoms of pathology

The disease is characterized by a polymorphism of manifestations, which can be described as follows:

  1. Blue or cyanotic color of the earlobes, nail phalanges fingers, tip of the nose. Over time, due to hypoxia, the skin becomes pale.
  2. Expiratory (on exhalation) shortness of breath. Characterized by a short inhalation and a stepped long exhalation. In the lying position, the symptom does not intensify, unlike shortness of breath due to cardiovascular disorders.
  3. Increasing the intensity of work of auxiliary respiratory muscles(intercostal, diaphragm).
  4. Overfilling of the veins of the neck (intrathoracic pressure increases when coughing or exhaling).
  5. During coughing attacks, the face becomes red and little sputum is produced. These patients are called pink puffers.
  6. Loss of body weight.
  7. Hepatomegaly (liver enlargement) with prolapse. The reason is that blood stagnates in the liver vascular network and for better ventilation of the lungs the diaphragm is lowered.
  8. Modified appearance patient (if chronic course). A short neck, barrel-shaped chest, convex supraclavicular areas, fingers and fingernails are noted. drumsticks and watch glasses respectively.

Classification of the disease

Depending on the time of occurrence, emphysema is divided into primary (is an independent disease) and secondary (occurs due to existing pathologies in the lung, which includes COPD).

Depending on the prevalence of the process, there are localized and diffuse pulmonary emphysema.

Considering the degree of impairment of the acini (lungs), the following forms of the disease are called:

  1. Panlobular (panacinar). The entire acini is affected.
  2. Centrilobular (centroacinar). The acini centers and respiratory alveoli are affected.
  3. Perilobular (periacinar). The periphery of the acini is destroyed.
  4. Peri-scar (irregular/uneven).
  5. Bullous (bullous formations are detected).

Vicarious emphysema (observed in an organ preserved after removal and is a normal reaction of the body) belongs to a separate group.

Diagnostics

The algorithm for examining a patient for the presence of emphysema is presented in the following stages:

  • History of the disease (complaints, their onset, under what circumstances they arise, presence of bad habits).
  • Physical methods: percussion: by tapping the organ, changes in pulmonary sound and downward displacement of the lower border are determined; auscultatory: listening to the lungs, weakened rapid breathing, the presence of dry wheezing and tachycardia are noted.
  • X-ray diagnostics. The method allows us to identify the localization, prevalence and stage of the disease.
  • MRI of the chest. With this study, fluid, pathological foci and the condition of the bronchial tree are detected.
  • CT scan of the lungs. This type of diagnosis makes it possible to determine the size, boundaries of pathological foci, dilated areas of the bronchi and blood vessels, and airiness.
  • The scintigraphy method is carried out as preoperative preparation, to exclude a tumor and determine vascular changes in the lung parenchyma.
  • Spirogram. Research helps identify violations external respiration(content of inhaled and exhaled air).
  • Peak flow diagnostics is used to determine obstructive lesions of the bronchial tree.
  • Blood gases are prescribed to detect hypoxia (lack of oxygen) and hypercapnia ( increased content carbon dioxide).
  • UAC ( general analysis blood). With emphysema, there is an increase in red blood cells, hemoglobin, and blood viscosity, but the ESR is reduced.

Treatment methods

Medicines

For effective fight With pulmonary emphysema, treatment with the following drugs is mandatory:

  1. Bronchodilators (Atrovent, Salbutamol, Theophylline, Teopek). They are prescribed both in tablet forms and in the form of inhalers (severe stage of the disease).
  2. Glucocorticosteroids (“Triamcinolone”, “Prednisolone”). They have an anti-inflammatory effect, reduce the viscosity of mucus, and relieve swelling of the bronchial mucosa.
  3. Mucolytics (“Bromhexine”, “ACC”). Provide dilution of sputum and facilitate its removal.
  4. Antitussives (Tusuprex, Libexin).
  5. Antibiotics (Azithromycin, Amoxicillin). The use of these drugs is necessary in case of development of emphysema due to inflammatory diseases lungs (pneumonia, bronchitis).
  6. Multivitamin complexes (“Duovit”, “Supradin”).

Therapy medicines must be carried out for at least 3-4 weeks without a break.

Sulfur is used as homeopathy in various dilutions.

To enhance the effect of the therapy, it is possible to use traditional methods.

Alternative medicine recipes

To treat emphysema at home, there are numerous remedies, the most effective of which are:

  1. Honey-garlic infusion. Garlic (10 peeled and chopped heads) with honey (1 kilogram) and lemon (squeeze juice from 10 pieces) are mixed until smooth. Glassware and a dark place are necessary to store the mixture. After 7 days, the drug is taken orally, 4 tablespoons per day.
  2. Inhalation with honey and garlic infusion. Dilute baking soda in water and add the healing mixture. Steaming garlic with honey improves sputum discharge; you can use propolis.
  3. Potato leaf juice. You need to drink 0.5 tsp on the first day, increasing the dose by half a teaspoon daily. After 7 days, the total amount of the substance taken at a time should be 0.5 cups.
  4. Infusion containing cumin and fennel - 1 tbsp. l. and horsetail - 2 tbsp. l. Herbs are infused in a glass of boiled water. You need to take the product 3 times a day, 75 ml.
    Buckwheat (3 tablespoons) per 0.5 liters of boiled water. Warm infusion, take half a glass 4 times a day.
  5. Juniper fruits, dandelion root - 1 tbsp. l. and birch leaves -2 tbsp. l. for 200 ml of boiling water. Therapy is carried out 3 times a day, half a glass for 3 months.
  6. Meadow greenweed (20 g) and dried lemon balm (50 g) per 1000 ml of dry white wine. The mixture is infused for 24 hours, shaking occasionally. You need to take the product 2 times a day, 100 ml. Effective for exacerbations.
  7. A collection of licorice rhizomes, sage leaves, pine buds, anise fruits and marshmallow root is infused in a glass of boiling water and taken 50 ml 4 times a day before meals.
  8. Potato flowers (1 tbsp) per 200 g of boiled water. This infusion should be drunk three times a day, 100 ml, for a month and during attacks of shortness of breath.
  9. Pour mint, eucalyptus, sage, elecampane, thyme (1 tablespoon each of all ingredients) into a glass of boiled water and drink 3 times a day.

Treatment of emphysema with folk remedies is possible only after consultation with a doctor.

Surgery

If there is no effect from conservative therapy, severe course diseases and massive damage to lung tissue are used surgical methods. The following operations are carried out:

  1. Lung transplantation (lobar or including heart). The procedure is indicated for patients with massive impairment and numerous bullae.
  2. Excision of the affected area of ​​the lungs with the application of sealing sutures.
  3. Thoracoscopic removal (minimally invasive: the ribs are not dissected) of part of the lung.
  4. Bronchoscopy. The method is the least invasive and is possible when the affected areas are located near large bronchi.

After surgical treatment pulmonary ventilation is restored due to the lack of compression by the pathologically enlarged area. Period postoperative rehabilitation lasts about 3 months.

Breathing exercises are also effective in the fight against emphysema. It helps fight hypoxia at an early stage of the disease.

Patient with emphysema of the lung must adhere to a special restorative and detoxifying diet, consisting of the following principles:

  • You need to eat up to 6 times a day in small portions;
  • It is recommended to consume up to 90 g of vegetable or animal (high-fat milk) fats per day;
  • proteins in daily ration must be at least 120 grams, half of which is of animal origin;
  • carbohydrate content should be 350–400 grams;
  • fruits, vegetables and bran are also a necessary component of the diet;
  • drink at least 2 liters of fluid per day;
  • maintain a salt regime (limit the amount of salt to 6 grams per day);
  • Alcohol, fried meat, cooking fats, and confectionery products should be excluded.

Prognosis of the disease and possible consequences

In the case of a stable, uncomplicated course of pulmonary emphysema, the outcome is favorable.

With severe damage and the development of complications, the prognosis of the disease is less optimistic.

To determine life expectancy, it is necessary to take into account the patient’s age, the presence of concomitant pathology and the degree of compensation for emphysematous lesions.

If the disease enters the decompensation stage, the following life-threatening complications may develop:

  1. Pneumothorax (accumulation of air in the pleural cavity).
  2. Bacterial infections (due to decreased immunity).
  3. Right ventricular failure (with increased pulmonary pressure and the development of pneumosclerosis).