Emphysema
The American Lung Association's emphysema website describes emphysema the following way:
Emphysema is a condition in which there is over-inflation of structures in the lungs known as alveoli or air sacs. This overinflation results from a breakdown of the walls of the alveoli, which causes a decrease in respiratory function (the way the lungs work) and often breathlessness. Early symptoms of emphysema include shortness of breath and cough. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis together comprise chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Visit this website at www.lungusa.org. Left click on the Diseases A to Z link and scroll down to and left click on the Emphysema link. Describe why emphysema is a serious health problem and the causes, development, treatment, and prevention of emphysema.
