Patient's question:
My friend, for some reason, has recently been feeling short of breath and coughing frequently. After a thorough check-up at the hospital, it was discovered that they have mild emphysema. I would like to understand how long people with mild emphysema can live?Doctor's answer:
Pneumothorax can heal on its own, but patients need active treatment. Breathing exercises should include diaphragmatic breathing, pursed-lip breathing for slow and deep exhalation, to enhance the movement of respiratory muscles. This helps improve diaphragmatic function. Home oxygen therapy is recommended, with daily oxygen administration of 12-15 hours, which can shorten life expectancy. If continuous oxygen therapy can be maintained for more than 24 hours a day, the effect is better. Physical therapy should be tailored to the patient's condition, such as Qigong, Tai Chi, breathing exercises, and activities like walking or climbing stairs, which are all beneficial for recovery.