Emphysema is a disease of the lungs marked by the destruction of small air sac (alveoli), it is there the exchange of oxygen into carbon dioxide out to the blood streams occurs. The destruction of alveoli can result in the reduction of the surface area for gas exchange. This causes stale air to accumulate inside of them. In severe cases of emphysema there is a higher amount of carbon dioxide and a smaller amount of oxygen in the blood stream. Emphysema could become serious if it is not attended to in time.

Symptoms of Emphysema:

• Shortness of breath (due to the hardening of the membrane which covers the lungs)
• Coughing with phlegm
• Anxiety

Causes of Emphysema:

• Smoking
• Industrial pollution
• Lack of some of the nutrients which are destroyed by smoking.
• Inherited deficiency of the lung protecting protein known as alpha - 1 - antitrypsin , this can be administered through injection to correct deficiency.

Recommended Vitamins, Minerals, and Food Supplements:

• Vitamin C - 360 mg.
• Vitamin A - 25,000 IU
• Vitamin E -- 600 IU
• Vitamin B Complex - 350 mg.
• Vitamin D - 400 IU
• Aloe vera juice or fresh orange juice
• Garlic and Lecithin

Recommended Treatments for Emphysema:

• Live in a place with clean air, countryside with mountains and trees is a good place for people with emphysema.
• Take vitamins C, A, E and B Complex. Proteins are good to build up damaged tissue and therefore the intake of them is recommended.
• Progression can be retarded when a person stop smoking.
• Symptomatic relief can in some cases be provided by drugs that can dilate air passage.