In my years of clinical work, I have found that many people are already in the severe stage by the time emphysema is detected. This is mainly because the early symptoms of emphysema are not obvious and can be easily overlooked. Today, I would like to share with you five symptoms that often occur in the early stages of emphysema, especially the last one, which is very important.
The first point is the recurrent chronic cough. This cough is more common in the morning and is accompanied by a sputum production. Many people mistake it for a cough caused by a cold, but if you notice that the cough lasts for a long time, especially in the morning, and is accompanied by a cough with phlegm, then you need to be alert to whether it is an early symptom of emphysema.
The second point is phlegm. Most people with emphysema have white sputum, especially in the morning. If you notice that your sputum is abnormally colored, or that you have too much sputum, this may be a sign of lung inflammation and requires further investigation.
The third point is shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. This is the hallmark symptom of emphysema. This symptom is more pronounced after activity. If you experience shortness of breath and lack of breath while doing some daily activities, especially if your symptoms worsen after exercise or physical exertion, this could be an early sign of emphysema.
Fourth, wheezing and chest tightness. This symptom usually appears at night or in the early hours of the morning. If you often feel tightness in your chest, can't breathe, or have significant breathlessness in the early hours of the morning while sleeping, this could be a sign of emphysema.
Fifth, weight loss and loss of appetite. Some people also experience weight loss and loss of appetite. This may be due to systemic symptoms caused by an inflammatory response in the lungs. If you notice that you've recently lost your appetite, lost significantly weight, and have other lung symptoms, you may need to see your doctor as soon as possible.
The above five points are common symptoms in the early stages of emphysema. If you find yourself with one or more of these symptoms, especially the last one, it is advisable to go to the hospital in time for a detailed examination to clarify the diagnosis and ** plan. Emphysema is a preventable and ** disease, and early detection and ** are very important to improve the prognosis. I hope my sharing can be helpful to everyone.