Survival Rates and Exercise Benefits for Emphysema Patients

Survival rate of emphysema?

1.
What is the survival rate for emphysema?
2.
Does daily exercise increase the survival rate?
3.
What types of exercise are most suitable for patients with emphysema?
4.
How much exercise is needed to maintain lung capacity and slow the decline of lung function?
5.
Is brisk walking in an urban park harmful to the alveoli?
6.
The current medications being used are Musco 30mg/tab, Phyllocontin Continus 225mg/tab, both taken once in the morning and once in the evening, and a Ventolin inhaler at 2.5 micrograms, used twice in the evening.
Do these three medications contain steroids? What are the long-term side effects of using them, and can they harm the liver or kidneys?

james, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/25

Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology

Its function is only about 70% -- this is classified as mild impairment.
As long as one avoids exposure to air pollution, quits smoking, and steers clear of secondhand smoke, the lifespan should be quite long.
Daily exercise can increase survival rates.
If lung function is at 70%, activities such as swimming, jogging, and brisk walking are generally acceptable, as long as they do not cause excessive shortness of breath or rapid heart rate; the heart rate should remain below 120 beats per minute, ensuring that breathing is manageable.
Strength training for the upper and lower limbs can be beneficial, and assistance from a rehabilitation specialist or physical therapist may be sought.
Exercise can enhance lung function and cardiopulmonary endurance, but it may not slow the decline in lung function.
Treatment should focus on preventing infections and avoiding inhalation of toxic substances such as smoke, air pollution, and PM2.5.
Exercising in parks should pose no issues, but one should avoid exercising on roads or in polluted environments.
The mentioned medications do not contain steroids and have minimal liver and kidney side effects, though attention should be paid to potential cardiac side effects, such as rapid heart rate or arrhythmias.
Thank you.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chien Shun-Tian, Thoracic Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/07/25

More Info

Emphysema is a chronic lung condition that falls under the umbrella of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It is characterized by the destruction of the alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs, leading to difficulty in breathing and reduced oxygen exchange. Understanding the survival rates, benefits of exercise, and appropriate management strategies is crucial for patients diagnosed with emphysema.

1. Survival Rates for Emphysema Patients
Survival rates for emphysema patients can vary significantly based on several factors, including the severity of the disease, the presence of other health conditions, and the patient's overall health and lifestyle choices. Generally, the prognosis for emphysema is not as favorable as for some other chronic conditions. According to studies, the 5-year survival rate for patients with severe emphysema can be around 50%, but this can improve with proper management and lifestyle changes.

2. Exercise and Survival Rates
Regular exercise has been shown to have numerous benefits for patients with emphysema. Engaging in physical activity can improve lung function, enhance exercise tolerance, and increase overall quality of life. While exercise alone may not directly increase survival rates, it can significantly improve the patient's ability to manage symptoms and maintain independence, which can indirectly contribute to better outcomes.

3. Suitable Exercises for Emphysema Patients
For patients with emphysema, low-impact aerobic exercises are generally recommended. These may include:
- Walking: A simple and effective way to improve cardiovascular fitness.

- Cycling: Stationary cycling can be a good option, especially for those who may have difficulty walking.

- Swimming: This can be beneficial as the buoyancy of water reduces strain on the body.

- Breathing exercises: Techniques such as pursed-lip breathing can help improve oxygenation and reduce breathlessness.

4. Exercise Volume for Maintaining Lung Function
The American Lung Association recommends that patients with COPD, including emphysema, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. This can be broken down into manageable sessions, such as 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Additionally, incorporating strength training exercises at least twice a week can help maintain muscle mass and overall physical function.

5. Fast Walking in Urban Parks
Walking briskly in urban parks is generally safe and can be beneficial for lung health, provided that the air quality is good. However, patients should be cautious of pollution levels, as poor air quality can exacerbate respiratory symptoms. It is advisable to check local air quality reports and avoid outdoor exercise on days when pollution levels are high.

6. Medications and Their Effects
The medications you mentioned—Musco (a mucolytic), Phyllocontin Continus (a bronchodilator), and the inhaled corticosteroid—are commonly used in the management of emphysema.
- Musco helps thin mucus, making it easier to cough up.

- Phyllocontin Continus helps open the airways, improving airflow.

- Inhaled corticosteroids reduce inflammation in the airways.

While inhaled corticosteroids can have side effects, they are generally considered safe when used as directed. Long-term use of corticosteroids can lead to side effects such as increased risk of infections, osteoporosis, and potential effects on blood sugar levels, but these risks are typically lower with inhaled forms compared to systemic corticosteroids. It is essential to have regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor for any potential side effects, particularly concerning liver and kidney function.

Conclusion
In summary, while emphysema poses significant challenges, patients can take proactive steps to manage their condition. Regular exercise, appropriate medication management, and lifestyle modifications can enhance quality of life and potentially improve survival rates. Always consult with healthcare professionals before starting any new exercise regimen or making changes to your treatment plan.

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