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Lungs Spirometry Emphysema Quitting smoking COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder) Smoking and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder) Respiratory system

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Emphysema

Symptoms: Shortness of breath Chronic cough with or without sputum production Wheezing Decreased ability to exercise Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease include the following: Anxiety Unintentional weight loss Ankle, feet, and leg swelling Fatigue Signs and tests: A physical examination may show wheezing, decreased breath sounds, or prolonged exhalation (exhalation takes more than twice as long as inspiration). The chest may be barrel-shaped. There may be signs of chronically insufficient oxygen levels in the blood. Text Continues Below These tests help confirm the diagnosis: Pulmonary function tests Chest x-ray Arterial blood gases showing low levels of oxygen in the blood (hypoxemia), and high levels of carbon dioxide (respiratory acidosis) This disease may also alter the results of the following tests: Pulmonary ventilation/perfusion scan Chest CT scan

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