What is emphysema?
In emphysema, the tiny air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs are damaged. The small airways tend to collapse when you breathe out, trapping air, and the lungs become less efficient at taking in oxygen. The main symptom is breathlessness on exertion. Emphysema is one of the conditions that make up COPD.
How respiratory physiotherapy helps
- Pulmonary rehabilitation to improve exercise tolerance and everyday function.
- Breathing control, including pursed-lip breathing and recovery positions for when you are breathless.
- Pacing and energy conservation for showering, housework, stairs and shopping.
- Inspiratory muscle training, which may help reduce breathlessness in some people.
- A hand-held fan: a simple, well-supported tool for easing the sensation of breathlessness.