In the later stages of emphysema, potential complications can range from anxiety to heart problems.
Frequent Symptoms
In the beginning, symptoms of emphysema are often silent.
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath, also known asdyspnea, is the hallmark symptom of emphysema.
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When it first appears, it usually only occurs with exertion.
As it progresses, it can be severe and even scary.
People with emphysema often report feeling winded or like they are gasping for air.
Rapid Breathing
Tachypnea, the medical term for rapid breathing, is another common symptom of emphysema.
Thenormal respiratory ratefor a healthy adult ranges from 12 to 18 breaths per minute.
Tachypnea is defined as taking more than 20 breaths per minute for at least several minutes.
Most healthcare providers consider a cough chronic if it’s been going on for eight weeks or more.
Though wheezing can occur on the inhale, in emphysema, it most often takes place on the exhale.
Rare Symptoms
The following rare symptoms tend to occur in the later stages of the disease.
Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss
Shortness of breath during mealtimescan make it difficult to eat.
Many pulmonologists recommend nutritional counseling for patients with emphysema.
When not addressed, difficulty eating can lead to life-threateningmalnutrition.
Appetite loss and unintentional weight loss also may indicate that other diseases are present, such aslung canceror pulmonarytuberculosis.
Muscle wasting, which develops in later-stage emphysema, can make a barrel chest more obvious.
Cyanosis
Cyanosisis a lack of sufficient oxygen in the tissues.
Often, nighttime oxygen therapy is necessary for people with emphysema who aren’t able to sleep well.
Complications
Many complications can occur as a result of emphysema.
Anxiety and Depression
The emotional effects of emphysema and COPD are often overlooked.
Medications and other non-pharmacological treatments can help manage these concerns.
What’s more, chronic lung diseases may prevent full recovery after aheart attack.
The condition is diagnosed via imaging and/or lab tests.
When to Get Medical Help
People with undiagnosed emphysema typically have a history ofbronchitisand upper respiratory infections.
If you have completed your course of treatment, but still have lingering symptoms talk to your healthcare provider.
Be sure to discuss any unusual symptoms or changes you may be experiencing with your healthcare provider.
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