Emphysema is a chronic condition where the air sacs become irregularly shaped and develop holes. These changes cause oxygen to get trapped in the lungs which makes it difficult to breathe out fully and it inhibits oxygen from entering the bloodstream. Smoking remains the leading cause of emphysema although it can also occur due to exposure to toxins at work or in the environment. Emphysema can become serious and lead to disability. To help prevent complications it is important to become familiar with the first symptoms of emphysema and seek treatment right away.
Shortness of Breath
Getting out of breath during activities that were once tolerable proves the most common early symptoms of emphysema states the National Lung Health Education Program. In the initial stages of this condition, the symptoms may be mild and not automatically associated with a chronic disease. If any changes occur to someone's breathing capacity, it proves important to not just dismiss it as due to old age or being out of shape. The sooner treatment begins the better the outcome.
Coughing and Wheezing
Another warning sign of emphysema is a chronic cough or wheezing sounds when breathing warns MayoClinic.com. Since a cough can also indicate bronchitis, it becomes important for people to have any symptoms properly diagnosed. Overtime chronic coughing can lead to tightness and discomfort in the chest.
Fatigue
Whenever the body fights a chronic condition fatigue can set in. As with shortness of breath, initially fatigue may only occur during heavy exercise. However, if left untreated more and more activities will become difficult to do. Increased feelings of fatigue may also accompany by unexplained weight loss.
Frequent Colds
If the lungs don't function correctly frequent colds, flus or respiratory problems may start to occur. If there are any changes to general health status it is important to see a physician. Physicians can perform tests to help determine if the symptoms are due to emphysema or another condition.
