Emphysema

The Emphysema topic includes research on the causes, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of this condition.

Emphysema is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a condition that makes it hard to breathe. People with emphysema may also develop a chronic cough or wheeze, shortness of breath, and tightness in the chest; these symptoms worsen over time as the condition progresses.

Emphysema is most commonly caused by long-term exposure to irritants like tobacco smoke, air pollution, and chemical fumes or dust. It can also be caused by a genetic condition. There is no cure for emphysema, but the symptoms can be managed with lifestyle changes, medicine, oxygen therapy, rehabilitation, and (in severe cases) surgery.