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Treatment

Emphysema is an irreversible condition and the goals of treatment are to reduce symptoms and to slow progression of the disease. The most important step is to quit smoking. Smoking cessation can slow the decline of lung function considerably.

For information about quitting, please see Ways to Quit Smoking.

Patients who have emphysema may be encouraged to practice pursed-lip breathing to help improve air flow in the lungs. Breathing slowly through puckered ("pursed") lips may ...Read the full article