J40-J47: Chronic lower respiratory diseases
J43: Emphysema
Emphysema is a lung condition characterized by shortness of breath due to over-inflation of the alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lung where oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange occurs. The balloons-like structure of these sacs is key to their function, and in Emphysema, these sacs are damaged, leading to a decrease in the lung's surface area, and less oxygen reaching the bloodstream. This condition typically progresses slowly over many years and may be accompanied by chronic bronchitis, which is persistent coughing and mucus production. Emphysema can be caused by several factors, although cigarette smoking is by far the most common. Additionally, exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, or chemical fumes can also contribute to developing this condition. The symptoms often include a cough, a gradual loss of breath, and frequent respiratory infections.
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