Living With Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency

People who have alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency don't always develop serious lung or liver diseases. This means that you can live with AAT deficiency and not even know you have it.

If you do know you have AAT deficiency, you probably also have a related lung or liver disease that requires ongoing medical care.

Some things you can do if you have AAT deficiency are:

• Quit or don't start smoking. Smoking is the leading risk factor for lung disease.
• Avoid secondhand smoke and places where you might inhale dust, fumes, or other toxins.
• Check your living and working spaces for things that may irritate your lungs. Examples include flower and tree pollen, ash, allergens, air pollution, wood burning stoves, paint fumes, and fumes from cleaning products and other household items.
• Advise your children to avoid smoking and to stay away from places where they might inhale irritants or toxins. Because AAT deficiency is inherited, your children may have the condition or carry the gene for it. They should do whatever they can to reduce their risk of getting serious lung diseases. (Of course, this is true for anyone—with or without AAT deficiency.)
• Make lifestyle changes to stay healthy, including following a healthy diet and getting regular physical activity. Talk to your doctor about how much and what types of physical activity are safe for you.
• Reduce stress. Relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, and muscle relaxation, can help you cope with stress.
• Talk to your doctor about whether it's safe for you to drink alcohol.
• Get vaccines to protect you from flu and pneumococcus. These viruses increase your risk for serious lung diseases.
• Get treatment right away for any breathing problems. If treatment includes pulmonary rehabilitation, work with your health care team to learn how to manage your condition and function at your best.

If you feel depressed, scared, or upset after being diagnosed with AAT deficiency, talk to your doctor. He or she can recommend support groups or counseling to help you.