what is emphysema?

Question

disease in the lungs

Answer 1

em·phy·se·ma (mf-sm, -z-)
n.
1. A pathological condition of the lungs marked by an abnormal increase in the size of the air spaces, resulting in labored breathing and an increased susceptibility to infection. It can be caused by irreversible expansion of the alveoli or by the destruction of alveolar walls.
2. An abnormal distention of body tissues caused by retention of air.

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[Greek emphsma, inflation, from emphsn, to blow in : en-, in; see en-2 + phsn, to blow (from phsa, bellows, bladder).]

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emphy·sema·tous (-sm-ts, -sm-, -zm-, -zm-) adj.
emphy·semic adj. & n.

Answer 2

Emphysema is a chronic lung disease. It is often caused by exposure to toxic chemicals or long-term exposure to tobacco smoke.

Emphysema is characterized by loss of elasticity of the lung tissue; destruction of structures supporting the alveoli; and destruction of capillaries feeding the alveoli. The result is that the small airways collapse during expiration, leading to an obstructive form of lung disease (air is trapped in the lungs in obstructive lung diseases). Symptoms are: shortness of breath on exertion--typically when climbing stairs or inclines (and later at rest), hyperventilation and an expanded chest. As emphysema progresses, clubbing of the fingers may be observed, a feature of longstanding hypoxia.

Emphysema is an irreversible degenerative condition. The most important measure that can be taken to slow the progression of emphysema is for the patient to stop smoking and avoid all exposure to cigarette smoke and lung irritants. Pulmonary rehabilitation can be very helpful to optimize the patient's quality of life and teach the patient how to actively manage his or her care. Emphysema is also treated by supporting the breathing with anticholinergics, bronchodilators and (inhaled or oral) steroid medication, and supplemental oxygen as required. Treating the patient's other conditions including gastric reflux and allergies may also improve lung function. Supplemental oxygen used as prescribed (20+ hours/day) is the only non-surgical treatment which has been shown to prolong life in emphysema patients. Other medications are being researched. There are lightweight portable oxygen systems which allow patients increased mobility. Patients fly, cruise, and work while using supplemental oxygen.

Answer 3

Emphysema means overinflated structures that are microscopic air sacs of the lungs. They lose elasticity and then air flows into the air sacs easily but cannot flow out easily. The patient can breathe in but cannot breathe out efficiently. There is too much stale air in his lungs. The result is shortness of breath, overwork of the heart, and sometimes death.

Answer 4

a disease in the lungs that makes it hard to breath mostly caused by smoking or other harsh inhalents

Answer 5

I think smokers will die from emphysema.