Patient was instructed upon signs and symptoms of emphysema as follows: Mucus trapped in the airways and damage to the alveoli in the lungs contribute to the chest discomfort, difficulty breathing, poor gas exchange. Reduced gas exchange result in increased carbon dioxide levels in the body and reduced oxygen availability for metabolic needs. This can lead to exacerbation of shortness of breath, low oxygen saturations, episodes of dizziness and confusion, reduced endurance and exercise tolerance, [...]

Patient was instructed regarding management measures to prevent exacerbation of emphysema as follows: Breathe in using a humidifier. Moist air helps to thin the mucus, so that, it can be easily coughed up. Maintain compliance with regular fluid intake. Drinking plenty of fluids will help prevent dehydration and also help to thin the mucus, thereby, helping it to be coughed up. Use any OTC expectorant to cough the secretions up, as accumulated secretions in the [...]