Emphysema (patient information)
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What is Emphysema?
Emphysema is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) involving damage to the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs. As a result, your body does not get the oxygen it needs. Emphysema makes it hard to catch your breath. You may also have a chronic cough and have trouble breathing during exercise.
What are the symptoms of Emphysema?
Symptoms include shortness of breath on exertion, and an expanded chest. Signs of emphysema include pursed-lipped breathing and central cyanosis. The chest has hyperresonant percussion notes, particularly just above the liver, and a difficult to palpate apex beat, both due to hyperinflation. There may be decreased breath sounds and audible expiratory wheeze. In advanced disease, there are signs of fluid overload such as pitting peripheral edema. The face has a ruddy complexion if there is a secondary polycythemia. Sufferers who retain carbon dioxide have asterixis (metabolic flap) at the wrist.
What causes Emphysema?
The most common cause is cigarette smoking.
Who is at risk for Emphysema?
How do I know I have Emphysema?
When to seek urgent medical care
Treatment options
Treatment is based on whether your symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. Treatments include inhalers, oxygen, medications and sometimes surgery to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.
Where to find medical care for Emphysema
Directions to Hospitals Treating Emphysema
Prevention of Emphysema
If you smoke, quitting can help prevent you from getting the disease. If you already have emphysema, not smoking might keep it from getting worse.