Emphysema
Usually caused by ongoing irritation that persists for many years
(from smoking, working around dust or flour), emphysema is characterized
by a degradation of the lungs and alveolar tissue so that oxygen
absorption is impaired. This damage and degradation immediately
lead to difficulty breathing; the lack of circulating oxygen decreases
energy levels, mental, and cardiovascular functions (overall deficient
qi). It is very difficult to rebuild lung tissue, so treatment focuses
on managing the symptoms.
Treatment
Goal(s):
· Increase airflow to the lungs, tonify the lungs, improve
circulation.
Primary Treatment:
· Anticatarrhal and expectorant herbs are useful to keep
airways open. Plantago lanceolata (Long-leaved plantain) is especially
nice because it is drying and soothing as well. Trifolium praetense
(Red Clover) can also be helpful.
· Lung function and resistance to opportunistic infection
can be increased through the use of Astragalus and the medicinal
mushrooms.
Supportive Treatment:
· Herbal steams are useful therapeutically; the patient can
also carry vials of essential oil of Eucalyptus and Mentha piperita
(Peppermint) to use as needed.
· Antispasmodic herbs such as Lobelia are useful when pulmonary
occlusion results in asthma-like symptoms; this is often evident
when patients with emphysema attempt to exert themselves. They can
be taken internally or topically applied to the lungs.
· Circulatory stimulants such as Crategus (Hawthorn), Ginkgo,
Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary), Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola)
and Aralia racemosa (Spikenard) can help with mental function and
fatigue.
Differential diagnoses, cautions, and other considerations:
· Monitor the patient for signs of pneumonia or lung infection.
· Treat any acute infective flare-ups accordingly, but be
aware that a patient with compromised lung function will require
special care and may not be able to recover from a serious infection
like Pneumonia without the use of antibiotics.
· Often patients with advanced emphysema will benefit from
an oxygen-rich atmosphere. Consult a care provider.
