Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease (COPD) is a type of lung disease which is characterized by long term of poor air flow due to certain pathological change in the lungs. Emphysema is one among the main type of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and the number of people affected by this condition is increasing day by day. COPD keeps on progressing with the passage of time and gets worse if not treated on time.

Chronic bronchitis and Emphysema are the 2 main types of COPD where in both these conditions, the patient feels as if something is blocking the smooth flow of air into and out of lungs. In Emphysema, the air sacs in the lung get enlarged, damaged and stretched due to the loss of elasticity in the air sacs. This gradually leads to chronic cough and difficulty in breathing. Most of the cases of emphysema are caused due to cigarette smoking.

Causes of Emphysema

Smoking cigarette is the main causative factor of Emphysema. But it has to be notified that all the smokers might not develop the same conditions. Those who are genetically susceptible as well as those who are exposed to passive smoking are the usual victims.

Other risk factors include:

• Inhalation of toxins
• Inhalation of harmful smoke (for example, the smoke from cooking in rural areas)
• Air pollution
• Chemical fumes and dust
• Hereditary deficiency of a protein called alpha-1-antitrypsin

Symptoms of Emphysema

The main symptoms of Emphysema are:

• Shortness of breath
• Long-term coughing
• Increased production of mucus
• Abnormal mucus colour (yellow or green).
• Wheezing
• Presence of blue tinge on lips and fingernail beds
• Loss of weight
• Loss of appetite
• Constant fatigue
• Headache in the morning
• Heart problems
• Sleep disturbances
• Frequent lung infection
• Anxiety

Ayurveda concept of Emphysema

Ayurveda primarily focuses on restoring the body’s functional capacity. According to Ayurveda, COPD is classified as Shwasa roga and is caused by problems in the pranavaha srotas. Vata and Kapha doshas are responsible for maintaining the elasticity of the air sacs in the lungs. The main seat of Kapha according to ayurveda is located in the chest cavity. When Kapha Dosha in the chest decreases, there is a gradual increase in Vata Dosha and this causes excess dryness in the chest due to loss of moisture. As a result, the air spaces around the chest cavity loose its support and elasticity. The air sacs also get enlarged, stretched and even damaged due to this.

Alternative Treatment for Emphysema

Emphysema in ayurveda is treated based on the Doshas involved. Natural treatment in ayurveda for this condition involves Nidanaparivarjana (lifestyle and diet modifications), Shaman (Pacification) and Shodhana (bio-purificatory) methods. Certain ayurvedic medicinal supplements which are immuno-modulatory, bronchodilatory and mucolytic are also administered internally.

Following various ayurveda therapies along with these simple ayurvedic tips can help improve your lung health considerably.

Diet and Lifestyle

• Drinking lot of water – This help in loosening of mucus and their expulsion thus keeping the airways clean.
• Taking a fresh and warm diet
• Include seasonal fruit and vegetables in the diet
• Intake of warm water at regular intervals
• Consuming herbs like turmeric, garlic and ginger in daily diet
• Doing exercises that aids in breathing

Yoga and Pranayama

Pranayama plays an important role in Prana, Tejas, and Ojas and their corresponding effects on the mind, relaxation along with conscious breathing techniques. This helps in improving the functioning of entire respiratory system. Certain Yoga postures like Bhujangasana, Savasana, Shalabhasana, etc are useful for Pranvaha Srotasaas as it accelerates the blood circulation of the lungs and thus increases the vital capacity of the lungs.

Nasya Karma

This therapy includes the pouring medicated drops through the nostrils which prevents allergies caused by air pollutants. This helps in flushing out pollutants from the nasal cavity and prevents the pollutants from crossing the nasal pathway.

Precautions

• Stop using alcohol-based products.
• Avoid using products that contain chemicals or preservatives.
• Adopt Ayurveda and an Ayurvedic lifestyle.
• Choose only high-quality, natural, and pure products.
• Practice yoga and pranayama daily.

Conclusion

It’s always recommended to seek the advice best ayurvedic doctor Melbourne to design a specific treatment plan which is tailored to your individual needs and health conditions. At Ayurclinic Melbourne, we welcome you to witness the miracles of Ayurveda and its wellness capabilities. For more details on COPD, Consult our expert ayurvedic practitioners today and get the answers you need to take control of your health.