Emphysema (COPD)

EmphysemaA long term progressive disease of the lungVery similar to other diseases of the lung

shortness of breath is the main distinguishing factor of emphyema versus other lung diseases

Other symptoms are:Wheezing, Coughing,Chest tightness

Extended symptoms include loss of appetite and weight loss

Emphysema Key Information: Emphysema is the main type of Chronic Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

It has no cure, but quitting smoking decreases rate of disease

Tissues in the air sacs are destroyed so air pockets develop and lungs are enlarged

Controllable Risk Factors: Smoking

Secondhand smoke

Uncontrollable Risk Factors: Genes

Asthma

Pollution and fumes

Prevention

To prevent lung disease in one’s lifetime, one should:

• not smoke• limit their exposure to pollution, fumes,

and secondhand smoke