Prevention of emphysema. Importance of early identification.
If emphysema is identified early, much can be done to prevent or even reverse its progress. Smokers must be helped to stop smoking, and early, aggressive therapy with bronchodilators (plus corticosteroids, if needed) should be instituted. By preventing emphysema, the desperate cost of progressive respiratory insufficiency and curtailment of the pleasurable activities of daily living can be avoided.
Petty
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AMI Presbyterian/St Luke's Center for Health Sciences Education, Denver, CO 80218.
D001993:Bronchodilator Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004646:Emphysema / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D008176:Lung Volume Measurements; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D012907:Smoking / Q000009:adverse effects; D000074606:Smoking Prevention
D001993:Bronchodilator Agents