Emphysema is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that is characterized by the destruction and enlargement of air sacs within the lungs, which results in decreased lung elasticity. This in turn causes the lungs to become hyperinflated, leading to breathing difficulties.
Causes of Emphysema:
- Exposure to industrial pollutants or dusts,
- cigarette smoking, and
- a familial or genetic disorder.