I have been diagnosed with mild emphysema. Is there anything I can do to stop the condition from getting any worse and alleviate symptoms?

Emphysema is a progressive lung disease that results in shortness of breath and usually reduces capacity for physical activity. The most common cause of emphysema is smoking. A specific type of protein deficiency (AAt) sometimes plays a role. AAt deficiency is a hereditary condition that occurs when you inherit two defective genes, one from each parent.

Risk factors for developing emphysema include: age, exposure to second-hand smoke, chemical fumes and pollution, HIV infection and some connective tissues disorders.

The most important thing to do is to give up smoking and avoid all pollutants. There are some simple physical and breathing exercises that can also improve breathing. Get advice from a GP, chest specialist, physiotherapist or qualified healthcare professional. It is important that these exercises are done regularly as advised by your practitioner.

Drink plenty of fluids, unless advised otherwise by your GP to help clear excess mucus from the air passageways. Wear a scarf around your mouth and neck during the cold and wet months and always breath through your nose to protect your lungs. Try to avoid getting the flu and colds as much as possible and develop a healthy lifestyle with plenty of good nutritious food. Eat small meals more often and avoid dairy products and wheat as they create mucus in the body. Eat plenty of vegetables and fish and easy to digest foods such as rice. Drink mild herbal teas that are recommended for strengthening lung capacity and digestion. Nettle tea is an excellent choice as it is full of essential vitamins and minerals. Get the tea from a herbalist as tea bags may not be fresh enough. A herbal programme recommended by a qualified herbalist can help alleviate symptoms of emphysema considerably.

Always consult your GP before starting any new regime or self treatment. The contents of this article are for information purposes only and are not intended to prevent, diagnose or cure any medical conditions. If you would like a question covered, contact The Clinic of Complementary and Natural Medicine, Kiltartan House, Forster St., Galway on 091- 568804.

Dr H Bhatti is the President of the Association of Naturopathic Practitioners and can be contacted at his clinics at Kiltartan House, Forster Street, Galway on 091-568804 or at The Village Nursing Care Centre, Ballygarriff, Craughwell on 091-777700.

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