Emphysema is a common lung disease. It mostly occurs in smokers and those people who often breathe in toxic components and irritants. The condition would destroy alveoli or the air sacs in your lungs and make them become weaker, thus reducing the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream. Also, emphysema would cause a loss of elasticity in your lungs. It is important to know that this is an irreversible health issue, so it is important to detect early to prevent further complications. Keep reading to learn more about some common symptoms and causes of emphysema.
7 Symptoms of Emphysema
Tachypnea
Tachypnea or rapid breathing is a common symptom of emphysema and other breathing-related conditions. It occurs because you are not getting sufficient oxygen to operate normally. Also, your heart has to beat more quickly to get rid of excess carbon dioxide in the body, which has accumulated in your bloodstream because of an insufficient expulsion. The normal respiratory rate in adults is between 12 and 20 breaths per minute. So, if your rate is over 20, it might be a sign of tachypnea and emphysema. [1]
