A-Z Lungs and Breathing Emphysema Emphysema is a chronic lung disease that slowly deteriorates the lungs by effecting the walls of the air sacs or aveoli. The lungs lose their elasticity and this interferes with breathing, making it hard to move air out of the lungs.
Smoking is the most common cause of emphysema.
Symptoms of shortness of breath with exertion such as climbing stairs can progress. If you have emphysema and smoke, you should quit smoking . Your doctor can recommend a program to help you. Exercises that strengthen your diaphragm and abdominal muscles may make breathing easier. Medications and oxygen therapy may be recommended for emphysemic patients.