Management Measures to Prevent Exacerbation of Emphysema-1

Patient was instructed regarding management measures to prevent exacerbation of emphysema as follows: Compliance with smoking cessation is an important measure to avoid episodes of exacerbation of emphysema. Request family members who are smokers, to avoid smoking around you in the house. This will help avoiding passive smoking too. Avoid contact with family members and friends, who are sick and down with flu or pneumonia or any other respiratory infection. Observe compliance with the immunization [...]

Signs and Symptoms of Emphysema-1

Patient was instructed upon signs and symptoms of emphysema as follows: Enlarged chest or barrel-shaped chest, secondary to difficulty in emptying the lungs during expiration and consequent increased retention of air in the lungs. Chronic irritation in the throat, secondary to continued exposure to smoke and environmental pollutants and persistent cough. Continued inflammation of the airways results in damage to the cilia, which help in moving the mucus up towards the mouth, to be coughed [...]

Pathophysiology of Emphysema

Patient was instructed upon pathophysiology of emphysema as follows: Emphysema is a condition on the spectrum of COPD, involving extensive damage of the air sacs or alveoli of the lungs. Primary reason for emphysema is chronic active/passive cigarette smoking. Other irritants, such as, dust, pollen, and prolonged exposure environmental pollutants like exhaust from the vehicles and industrial waste can be precipitating factors too. Exposure to these respiratory tract irritants can lead to chronic unresolved cough [...]

Signs and Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism

Patient was educated on signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism as follows: Signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism depend on factors such as, the extent of the involvement of the lung with the clots, the size and number of clots formed. Smaller clots can even go unnoticed without producing any symptoms with the patient. But, larger clots or multiple clots formed can significantly affect the functional status of the individual with very pronounced symptoms. Signs [...]

Risk Factors for Pulmonary Embolism

Patient was educated on risk factors for pulmonary embolism as follows: Factors that increase the risk for pulmonary embolism comprise all the factors increasing the risk of deep vein thrombosis such as Hypercoagulable states and individuals with clotting disorders. Fractures of the lower extremities with sedentary life style. Patients on hormonal treatment with estrogens and testosterone. Bedbound status during prolonged hospitalization or after any complicated surgery. Major ailments with serious limitations on activities and range [...]