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Emphysema is a chronic condition affecting your lungs resulting in breathing difficulties. Your lungs contain many grape-like structures, called alveoli, which are very elastic and function as surfaces where oxygen transfer occurs. The prolonged exposure to irritating stimuli destroys the thin lining of the alveoli, which lose their elasticity, become rigid, are unable to expand, and tend to rupture easily. Air is trapped in these bags, and the patient feels breathless. The previous functioning alveoli are replaced by damaged air spaces, reducing the blood's oxygen supply. Smoking is the major cause of emphysema, but prolonged exposure to irritant gases, fumes, and dust also increases the risk of developing emphysema over time. Emphysema and another condition called chronic bronchitis fall under the umbrella term of COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), characterized by persistent cough with mucus production, wheeze, and difficult breathing.