Home HealthTopics Health Centers Reference Library Research
Join us on Facebook Join us on Facebook Share on Facebook
Share

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

Emphysema

10/26/2007

Question:

I have just been Diagnosed with early signs of Emphysema, I am 55 years old and I`ve smoked for most of my life, about 1 pack a day, I quit 2 years ago. If I get all the treatment I need, and exsersize. Can you give me an Idea of my life expectancy. I read something that scard me, it said 3 to 5 years.

Answer:

Without knowing more specifics about your lung function and respiratory symptoms, it is difficult to predict your life expectancy. However, if you only have "early signs" of emphysema and you continue to stay smoke free, your life expectancy may not be significantly affected by having the diagnosis of emphysema.

For more information:

Go to the COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) health topic, where you can:

Response by:

Mahasti Rittinger, RRT Mahasti Rittinger, RRT
Clinical Program Manager of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care & Sleep
College of Medicine
The Ohio State University

Phillip T Diaz, MD Phillip T Diaz, MD
Professor of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine
College of Medicine
The Ohio State University