Emphysema is a chronic disease that makes it hard to breathe because of physical changes in the air passages. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis, are referred to as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. Emphysema rates are increasing and COPD is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States. In emphysema the walls of the air sacs within the lungs, called alveoli, break down and over-inflate. The normal oxygen and carbon dioxide gas exchange that occurs in the lungs is slowed. Symptoms include chronic cough, shortness of breath, and recurrent lung infections. This can result in a decreased ability to perform daily chores. Advanced cases of emphysema can result in severe difficulty breathing, especially exhaling.

Smoking is the major cause of emphysema. A few people with emphysema may have an inherited form of the disease. Other factors that may contribute to emphysema include:
* exposure to air pollution, and
* exposure to dust, fumes, and irritants.

Treatment for emphysema is aimed at symptom relief and preventing progression. Quitting smoking is the best thing one can do. Breathing exercises can help strengthen muscles used in breathing. Relaxation techniques can provide a form of control during times of stress, which affects breathing. Sometimes breathing medications that temporarily help to open the airways, such as inhalers, may be prescribed. Avoiding high altitudes and pollutants, such as car exhaust, smog, and cigarette smoke can also reduce the symptoms of emphysema. If you have emphysema, be sure to notify your healthcare provider if you develop a cold or flu. This might require antibiotics to reduce or prevent your symptoms from worsening. Your healthcare provider will also suggest proper daily diet, rest, and exercise to maintain your body's ability to fight infection.

If you want to know more about emphysema, contact your local chapter of The American Lung Association, or call (800) LUNG-USA. If you are a smoker, your healthcare provider can also refer you to a smoking cessation program.

Choose a Health Topic Category Aging Alcohol Problems Allergies Arthritis Back & Neck Problems Blood & Circulatory Problems Bones, Joints & Muscles Brain & Nervous System Cancer Cardiovascular Health Child Health & Development Common Illnesses Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surg Dental Health Diabetes Digestive System Drug Abuse Ear, Nose & Throat Eating Disorders Exercise & Fitness Eyes & Vision Family Planning Foot Care General Health Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects Headaches Health Quizzes Hearing HIV Infections / AIDS Hormonal Disorders Infectious Diseases Medications Men's Health Mental & Emotional Health Nervous System Newborn Care Nutrition Parenting & Family Life Personal Safety Pregnancy & Childbirth Preparing for Emergencies Respiratory Problems Sexually Transmitted Diseases Skin Health Smoking Sports Medicine Stress & How to cope Surgery Symptoms Teenage Concerns Test & Examinations Urinary and Genital Systems Weight Control Women's Health   Go