How to treat emphysema in the elderly
Disease description:
Grandpa said he has been experiencing shortness of breath recently, along with a feeling of chest tightness. After a hospital checkup, the doctor diagnosed him with emphysema. How should emphysema in elderly patients be treated?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Qirui
Elderly patients with pulmonary emphysema can be treated under a doctor's guidance using anticholinergic medications, such as tiotropium bromide and ipratropium bromide. These may be combined with corticosteroid drugs to reduce airway swelling and mucus production; commonly used corticosteroids include fluticasone and budesonide. For patients with more severe symptoms, surgical intervention may be necessary.
