Symptoms of emphysema may include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and an increased production of mucus. Often times, symptoms may not be noticed until 50 percent or more of the lung tissue has been destroyed.

How does emphysema make you feel?

You feel short of breath after the slightest activity. As the disease gets worse, you may feel breathless even when you're sitting still. Symptoms tend to develop slowly. Smokers who have the disease typically first show signs between ages 45 and 60.

Can your lungs heal from emphysema?

There is no cure, but the condition can be managed using medications and adjustments to lifestyle. If you have shortness of breath or a long-term productive cough (a cough that produces mucus or phlegm), see your doctor for a lung function test.