Symptoms of emphysema

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Symptoms of Emphysema

Emphysema, a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is characterized by the destruction of lung tissue, leading to impaired airflow and breathing difficulties. This article synthesizes the key symptoms associated with emphysema, drawing on multiple research studies.

Dyspnea and Shortness of Breath

Dyspnea (shortness of breath) is the most frequently reported symptom of emphysema. Patients often experience difficulty breathing, which can initially occur during physical exertion and later even at rest . This symptom is due to the loss of elasticity in the lung tissue, causing the small airways to collapse during exhalation and trapping air in the lungs.

Fatigue and Reduced Exercise Capacity

Fatigue is another common symptom, often resulting from the increased effort required to breathe. This can significantly reduce a patient's ability to perform daily activities and exercise . Studies have shown that emphysema patients, particularly those with HIV, have a lower 6-minute walk distance, indicating reduced exercise capacity.

Chronic Cough and Phlegm

Patients with emphysema frequently report a chronic cough and the production of phlegm. This is particularly prevalent in those with more than 10% radiographic emphysema, and it persists even in the absence of airflow obstruction.

Sleep Disturbances

Sleep difficulties are also common among emphysema patients. These disturbances can be attributed to breathing problems that worsen at night, leading to poor sleep quality and further contributing to fatigue .

Anxiety and Psychological Symptoms

Anxiety and feelings of helplessness-hopelessness are prevalent among emphysema patients. Women and younger patients tend to report higher levels of anxiety and irritability compared to their counterparts. These psychological symptoms can exacerbate the physical symptoms, creating a cycle of distress and discomfort.

Congestion and Peripheral-Sensory Complaints

Congestion and peripheral-sensory complaints such as numbness or tingling are also reported by patients. These symptoms can be linked to the overall decline in respiratory function and the body's response to chronic hypoxia .

Hyperventilation and Expanded Chest

Hyperventilation and an expanded chest are physical manifestations of emphysema. The over-inflation of the lungs leads to a barrel-shaped chest, which is a classic sign of the disease.

Raised Intracranial Pressure

In some cases, especially during acute respiratory infections, patients may experience symptoms of raised intracranial pressure such as headaches, blurred vision, and papilledema.

Poor Memory and Cognitive Impairment

Poor memory and cognitive impairments are also noted among emphysema patients. These symptoms are likely related to chronic hypoxia and the overall decline in physical health .

Conclusion

Emphysema presents a wide range of symptoms that affect both physical and psychological health. Dyspnea, fatigue, chronic cough, sleep disturbances, and anxiety are among the most common symptoms. Understanding these symptoms can help in the early diagnosis and management of the disease, improving the quality of life for patients.