Emphysema is a chronic lung condition. With emphysema, the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs are destroyed. The lung loses its elasticity, along with its ability to take in oxygen. The vast majority of people with emphysema are cigarette smokers aged 50 or older. Emphysema is sometimes called “the smoker’s disease,” because of its strong link with cigarettes. Exposure to irritants in the workplace and environment can also cause the disease. Only 3 to 5 percent of all cases of emphysema are caused by genetic factors.

Signs and Symptoms
Emphysema takes a number of years to develop. Early symptoms can be easily missed. When symptoms occur they include:
Shortness of breath on exertion. This gets worse over time.
Wheezing
Fatigue
Repeated chest infections (colds and bronchitis)
Slight body build with marked weight loss and  a rounded chest that doesn't appear to expand when breathing in

Emphysema is often accompanied by chronic bronchitis. Together they are called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Persons with chronic bronchitis have symptoms of coughing and excess sputum.

Treatment and Care
A doctor can diagnose emphysema based on your medical history, a physical exam, a chest X-ray, and a lung-function test (spirometry). By the time emphysema is detected, however, anywhere from 50 to 70 percent of your lung tissue may already be destroyed. At that point, your doctor may recommend the following:
A program, medication, and/or nicotine replacement to help you stop
Avoidance of secondhand smoke, dust, fumes, pollutants, and other irritating inhalants
Physical therapy to help loosen mucus in your lungs, if you have chronic bronchitis
Breathing exercises as prescribed by your doctor or physical therapist.
Prescribed medications, such as bronchodilators, corticsteroids, and antibiotics
Flu and pneumonia vaccines
Supplemental oxygen as needed

Emphysema can't be reversed, so prevention is the only real way to avoid permanent damage.

(Note: Persons with emphysema having severe symptoms may need emergency care.)

(See "Places to Get Information & Help" under Lung Diseases.)

HEALTH AT HOME - Your Complete Guide to Symptoms, Solutions, and Self-Care © 2000 by Don R. Powell. American Institute for Preventive Medicine. 

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Date updated 03/02/01