Emphysema
- Definition: A chronic lung condition characterized by the destruction of alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs, leading to impaired gas exchange.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity (progressive dyspnea)
- Barrel-shaped chest (caused by overinflation of the lungs)
- Decreased breath sounds on examination
- Prolonged expiration time
- Unintentional weight loss (due to increased effort to breathe)
- Minimal coughing and mucus production in early stages
- Fatigue due to low oxygen levels
- Pink complexion (“pink puffers”) because patients tend to maintain blood oxygen levels by hyperventilating.
Causes:
- Smoking: The leading cause, as it damages alveoli and reduces lung elasticity.
- Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency: A genetic condition that causes enzyme imbalance, leading to lung tissue destruction.
- Chronic exposure to airborne irritants: Dust, pollution, or chemicals.