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Emphysema
Moderate
Emphysema is a chronic lung disease in which the air sacs, or alveoli, in the lungs become damaged. The damaged air sacs lose their ability to exchange air efficiently, making it difficult to breathe. Emphysema is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. Symptoms usually develop gradually and include shortness of breath, cough, wheezing, and reduced ability to exercise.
Body System
Respiratory System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek urgent medical attention for a significant worsening of breathlessness, severe wheezing, bluish lips or face, confusion, chest pain, coughing up blood, or symptoms that do not improve with prescribed treatment. Severe difficulty breathing requires emergency care.
Symptoms
2
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
5
Overview
Emphysema is a chronic lung disease in which the air sacs, or alveoli, in the lungs become damaged. The damaged air sacs lose their ability to exchange air efficiently, making it difficult to breathe. Emphysema is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. Symptoms usually develop gradually and include shortness of breath, cough, wheezing, and reduced ability to exercise.
Symptoms 2
Chest Pain
Pain Radiating To Jaw
Causes 1
Long-term exposure to cigarette smoke is the most common cause of emphysema. Tobacco smoke damages the walls of the lung air sacs and causes ongoing inflammation. Long-term exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, and certain workplace dusts or chemicals can also contribute. A small number of people develop emphysema because of an inherited deficiency of alpha-1 antitrypsin.
Infection
Risk Factors
Smoking is the major risk factor for emphysema, and risk increases with the amount and duration of tobacco exposure. Long-term exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, chemical fumes, and dust can also increase risk. Older age is associated with greater risk because lung damage accumulates over time. An inherited alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency can cause emphysema at a younger age.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Emphysema is evaluated using symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination. Doctors may perform pulmonary function tests to measure how well the lungs move air. Chest X-rays or CT scans can show structural changes in the lungs. Blood tests may be used to check oxygen levels or, in selected people, to look for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
The most effective way to prevent emphysema is not to smoke and to stop smoking as early as possible
Avoiding secondhand smoke and limiting exposure to workplace dust, fumes, and chemical irritants can also protect lung health
Good control of other respiratory conditions and maintaining physical activity can support lung function
People with occupational exposures should use recommended protective equipment
Prevention Guidance
The most effective way to prevent emphysema is not to smoke and to stop smoking as early as possible. Avoiding secondhand smoke and limiting exposure to workplace dust, fumes, and chemical irritants can also protect lung health. Good control of other respiratory conditions and maintaining physical activity can support lung function. People with occupational exposures should use recommended protective equipment.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 5
Recommended Foods
Coconut Water
Helps maintain hydration.
Papaya Leaf Juice
Traditionally used during dengue recovery.
Fresh Fruit Juice
Provides vitamins and fluids.
Khichdi
Easy to digest.
Soup
Provides hydration and nutrients.
Foods to Avoid
Fried Foods
May burden digestion.
Spicy Foods
Can worsen stomach discomfort.
Alcohol
Should be avoided during illness.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Dengue is a viral infection spread by Aedes mosquitoes.
High fever, headache, body pain, rash, and weakness are common symptoms.
Yes, severe dengue can cause bleeding and shock.
Blood tests such as NS1 antigen and antibody tests are used.
Prevent mosquito bites and eliminate stagnant water.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.