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Signs of emphysema aren't easily identifiable in the beginning because of their subtle nature. Emphysema is a respiratory condition that belongs in the group referred to as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD.) These diseases are accountable for damaging the air sacs of the lungs which cause its expansion and eventual burst. Considering that the exchange of carbon dioxide and oxygen takes place in the alveoli, individuals being affected by emphysema have problems in expelling their “air” which brings about accumulation of carbon dioxide in the body. Up to this date, Emphysema doesn't have known cure. Nonetheless, learning the signs of emphysema for early detection and prevention may help stop the condition from progressing. Here are some of the symptoms to look out for: • Shortness of breath - Dyspnea or shortness of breath is one major sign of emphysema • Wheezing - It is common for patients suffering from emphysema to experience wheezing. Having said that it is vital that you observe when the wheezing happens. Emphysema may be connected to the presence of wheeze upon the start of expiration while bronchitis is often linked to wheezing that is noticed at the end of expiration. • Persistent Cough With Mucus or Without Mucus - A long term or chronic cough, that is either with mucus (productive cough) or without mucus (non-productive cough), is one of the typical signs of emphysema caused by a history of smoking cigarettes. • Rapid Breathing - The medical term, tachypnea, is synonymous to rapid breathing and it is also one of the common signs of emphysema. • Weight Loss Due to Loss of Appetite - Anorexia or loss of appetite ultimately occurs which results in significant drop in the patient's weight. • Low Threshold to Exercise - As emphysema progresses, patients normally experience a reduction in the ability to engage in activities. • Barrel Chest - Due to the over-inflation of the lungs, the chest assumes a barrel-like appearance that is round and bulging and is typically noticeable in the later stages of emphysema. Typically, the signs of emphysema are comparable to that of asthma. The difference could be identified by observing the effects after having asthma medications as given by the physician. Then you're able to determine if it's emphysema or asthma you're suffering from after the medicines have taken effect. This is simply because individuals with emphysema won't respond to the asthma medication. With time, emphysema also affects the brain, since there is less oxygen delivered in the brain via the bloodstream. This leads to becoming easily irritated, grumpiness and reduced mental ability. Increased carbon dioxide levels in the blood, on the other hand brings about sleeplessness. Such mental conditions may also be regarded as possible signs of emphysema.
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