The incidence is 2 out of 1,000 people. Emphysema in children is caused by congenital abnormalities of the lung and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. Avoiding exposure to tobacco smoke and other pollutants will decrease the risk of the disease. There may be signs of chronic sleep deprivation, or signs of chronically insufficient oxygen levels in the blood. Antibiotics are prescribed when respiratory infections occur.
Many people use low-flow oxygen at home.
Avoidance of air pollution and smoking is important. An experimental surgery, called lung reduction, is currently being used to treat some patients with severe emphysema. Lung reduction surgery removes the damaged portions of the lung, thus allowing the normal portions of the lung to expand more fully and take advantage of increased areation. The outcome is usually better for those who quit smoking early. Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of emphysema develop.