Alternative Cure for Emphysema

Emphysema is an irreversible lung disease that causes the tissue in the lungs to slowly die. This creates difficulty in breathing, dizziness and shortness of breath. As the disease progresses, it can grow to the point where oxygen tanks are needed to aid the patient with breathing. There are many medical treatments for emphysema. However, there are many alternate treatments for emphysema that can make life easier.

Lifestyle Changes

• Changing your lifestyle can help treat your emphysema. Most people get emphysema from smoking. Obviously, people who have emphysema should quit smoking. However, they should also avoid others who smoke. Second-hand smoke can aggravate the emphysema and can decrease lung function. Avoid air pollution, dust, gasses, and chemical fumes. These can make your emphysema worse. Respiratory illnesses such as colds and flus can affect the severity of emphysema. Try to avoid falling ill by eating right and exercising as much as you can. This will boost your immune system. Increase your diet of fruits and vegetables and decrease fatty foods. These foods will provide your body with the nutrients to fight diseases and may help you lose weight. Emphysema is worsened by obesity.

Supplements

• There are many vitamin supplements that can help treat your emphysema symptoms. N-acetyl cycstein (NAC) breaks down the mucus that can form in the airways. It is typically used to treat bronchitis by inhalation, but it can also be used to treat emphysema. It is highly antioxidant, which will help treat any infections or bacterial elements. NAC does not work with inhaled steroids, so avoid using both.

  According to Peacehealth.org, L-cartinine has been shown to lead to positive results when used in a clinical trial. Creatine has also been shown to increase lung muscle strength and endurance. Omega 3 fatty acids are currently being researched as a treatment for emphysema, as they have been shown to help prevent emphysema from forming. Magnesium supplements have also shown great promise in improving lung function.

Herbs

• In addition to supplements, many herbs have been shown to be helpful in the treatment of emphysema. Ivy leaf extracts appear to break down the mucus that lines the airways in an emphysema patient. Mullein is another herb that has been used to alleviate mucus. Mullein also soothes the mucus membranes in the airways and helps keep them from becoming inflamed and agitated. Elecampane, lobelia, yerba santa, wild cherry bark, gumweed, anise and eucalyptus have all also been shown to be excellent treatments for lung conditions, including emphysema. Herbal supplements should never be used in place of traditional medical treatments.