Dr. Anshul Varshney
Internal Medicine
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
Answered by
Medically reviewed by
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I have had a CT scan of the head, neck, and chest. My doctor told me that I have chronic sinus. I already knew these things and had sinus surgery. But, in the report, it was mentioned as mild emphysema. Can that get fixed if I stop smoking? I have been using Advair for years for asthma. I visited a pulmonologist before the CT scan, and he said that my spirometry was good. After seeing my chest x-ray, he said he could take me off Advair. I am really confused and scared. Please help.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Emphysema is a non-reversible change in the lungs. But, yes, the further progression can be controlled by stopping smoking. Now, to know the extent of damage, I would advise you to go for a pulmonary function test (spirometry) that would help you to know the level of damage. The decision to take Advair (a combination of Fluticasone and Salmeterol) is based on your symptoms. If you have no symptoms, then it can be stopped.
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
Thank you.
They said it is mild centrilobular. Are you sure that stopping smoking stops further progression? Can I still live a long life? My spirometry was perfect, and the doctor said that I could get off Advair. But, three weeks later, I got a CT scan as I had trouble with my throat and then got to know about emphysema. What to do?
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
Yes, your doctor is correct, and that is what you need to do. Stop smoking. Things cannot be reversed but can be stopped from progressing. I need to know if you have any symptoms like breathlessness on walking or difficulty in breathing. Do you have any chest pain associated? Revert with the asked details for better help.
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
Thank you.
I have slight trouble breathing while climbing but not walking and no chest pain. I also have chronic sinusitis, allergies, and anxiety. As Advair and Ventolin do not help, my pulmonologist said to stop it, and spirometry was good. Then, in the CT scan, mild centrilobular emphysema was found. They said I am fine and use Advair if needed and to stop smoking.
Hi
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
All right. In that case, you do not need any medicine. I feel that you have asymptomatic emphysema, which does not carry any significance if you stop smoking now. Do you have your CT (computed tomography) report? Please attach it.
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
Thank you.
I have attached the CT scan report images. It says mild centrilobular emphysema and no pleural effusion thickening or pneumothorax. Airways are patent. Lungs are clear without consolidation. There is no interstitial disease or nodules.
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
I have evaluated your reports (attachment removed to protect patient identity) and your history.
Now, my conclusion is that you have mild lung damage due to smoking. This was an incidental finding, and you should take it as a warning and not like a disease. But, since that is mild and you are asymptomatic, you do not have to worry about any future consequences if you stop smoking from now onwards.
Was this conversation helpful?
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Internal Medicine
Related Questions
Will smoking cessation cause strained bowel movements?
Please advise the management of chronic sinus infection due to weather.
In chest x-ray, what is the meaning of bilateral apical inhomogeneities?
What is the treatment for COPD?
Does my chest x-ray show any nodules of concern?
Are acidity and constipation the withdrawal symptoms of quitting smoking?
*guaranteed answer within 4 hours
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy
