Emphysema and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

This condition destroys the lungs. Instead of there being a lot of small air spaces in the lungs, the walls dividing them are destroyed and larger sacs are formed. These are much less efficient in the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide and as a result the amount of functioning lung is reduced. This troubles the chronic smoker who has a history of repeated attacks of bronchitis and or pneumonia.

What you can do to help

The most essential thing to do is to stop smoking and to avoid places that have high levels of air pollution. (See for tips on quitting)

Physical exercise. This may seem a strange recommendation for somebody who has a chronic cough and is short of breath to the point of physical incapacity. However, careful, graded physical exercise such as slow walking, building up to an increasing distance, is of proven value in improving lung function in those with chronic bronchitis or emphysema.

It is important to ensure vitamin and mineral adequacy, particularly of the B group vitamins. Ensuring maximum efficiency of the body's metabolism in this way may reduce the body's demand for oxygen. Nutritional deficiencies without any obvious symptoms are very common, especially in the elderly. Multivitamin and mineral supplements may be of assistance.

People whose chronic bronchitis or emphysema involves excessive catarrah, may have an underlying food allergy. Attempt to identify any offending foods. In particular the exclusion of dairy products may be of benefit.

The following multivitamin and mineral supplements are recommended.

The ranges given are for one tablet and dosages could vary from one to six tablets per day.

The supplement should be free from yeast, wheat, gluten, milk, corn, soy, artificial colorants and preservatives.