Emphysema

Emphysema is an irreversible lung condition that affects breathing and is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It causes damage to the walls of the air sacs (alveoli) in your lungs, leading to less elasticity and making it harder to draw in air. Symptoms of emphysema include shortness of breath, wheezing, persistent or increased mucus production and frequent chest infections. Emphysema can be caused by a variety of factors, but the most common cause is smoking over a long period of time. It can also be caused by exposure to air pollution, occupational dust and toxic gases. Treatment for emphysema focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing further damage, and may include medications, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and in some cases, surgery.