How to treat emphysema in the elderly
Disease description:
Recently, my father said he was feeling very unwell and constantly weak. After going to the hospital for a checkup, the doctor diagnosed him with emphysema. How should emphysema in elderly patients be treated?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Sun Qifeng
For elderly patients with emphysema, the first step is to quit smoking and develop good hygiene habits, while also avoiding exposure to pollen and irritating gases that may affect the respiratory tract. If bacterial infection accompanies emphysema in the elderly, medications such as penicillin or aminoglycosides may be used under medical guidance. Additionally, when elderly individuals experience difficulty breathing, bronchodilators such as doxofylline or salbutamol can be used to dilate the airways and alleviate respiratory distress.
