Emphysema is a chronic lung condition that is caused by long-term smoking. It is a progressive and irreversible lung disease that leads to difficulty breathing due to over-inflation of the air sacs in the lungs. This over-inflation of the air sacs causes destruction of the tissue between them, which reduces the surface area of the lungs. This destruction of tissue leads to a decrease in the amount of oxygen that is able to be absorbed by the body, resulting in breathlessness and other symptoms.
Smoking is the main cause of emphysema. When a person smokes, the toxins from the smoke get into the tissue of the lungs and cause inflammation. This inflammation causes the walls of the air sacs to become damaged and weak. Over time, the walls of the air sacs become so weak that they can no longer hold their shape, and they start to over-inflate. This over-inflation causes the tissue between the air sacs to be destroyed, leading to the decrease in surface area of the lungs and the development of emphysema.
The symptoms of emphysema include shortness of breath, especially during physical activity, wheezing and a chronic cough. In more severe cases, the patient may also experience fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, and a bluish tint to the lips due to lack of oxygen.
Unfortunately, emphysema caused by smoking can not be cured. However, there are treatments available to help slow the progression of the disease and reduce its symptoms. Quitting smoking is the most important step for those with emphysema, as it can help slow the progression of the disease and reduce its symptoms. Other treatments may include supplemental oxygen, pulmonary rehabilitation, medications, and even surgery.
Emphysema is a serious and life-threatening condition, and it is important for smokers to understand the risks of smoking and take steps to quit. If you are a smoker and are experiencing any of the symptoms of emphysema, it is important to speak to your doctor as soon as possible.