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emphysema - Coggle Diagram
emphysema
What causes it ?
Continued exposure to chemicals, inflammation and infections damages the alveoli and smaller terminal bronchioles. This in turn decreases the efficiency of the lungs as these tissues collapse.
It is mainly caused by long-term smoking. Chemicals in the smoke paralyse the lung-cleaning cilia and eventually kill them, leading to a build-up of mucus and with pathogens trapped in the lungs increasing infections.
Exposure to certain types of dust and chemicals at work may damage the lungs and increase your risk of COPD.
Exposure to air pollution over a long period can affect how well the lungs work and some research suggests it could increase your risk of COPD.
You're more likely to develop COPD if you smoke and have a close relative with the condition, which suggests some people's genes might make them more vulnerable to the condition.
What are the symptoms?
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increasing breathlessness – this may only happen when exercising at first, and you may sometimes wake up at night feeling breathless
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What is emphysema ?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the name for a group of lung conditions that cause breathing difficulties
COPD is a common condition that mainly affects middle-aged or older adults who smoke. Many people do not realise they have it.
The breathing problems tend to get gradually worse over time and can limit your normal activities, although treatment can help keep the condition under control.
How is it diagnosed?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, including emphysema, is diagnosed mainly using a lung function test called spirometry. Other tests that may help in diagnosis of emphysema include: other lung function (or breathing) tests. chest x-rays.