What is the primary symptom of emphysema?

The primary symptom of emphysema is shortness of breath. This condition, a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), primarily affects the lungs' ability to expel air efficiently. As emphysema progresses, the alveoli, or air sacs in the lungs, become damaged and lose their elasticity, leading to a decreased capacity for gas exchange. This results in the feeling of breathlessness, especially during physical activity or exertion.

Individuals may initially notice this shortness of breath when engaging in everyday activities and may later experience it even at rest as the disease advances. While other symptoms like coughing, chest pain, and wheezing can occur in emphysema, they are not as defining to the condition as shortness of breath, which is a hallmark feature indicating the underlying compromise in lung function.