Over time, the trapped air causes the alveolar sacs to rupture or lose their shape (elasticity). This eventually leads to symptoms like difficulty of breathing.
How does smoking cause emphysema?
Later on, we’ll talk about the causes of emphysema besides smoking. But for now, let’s explain why smoking is the main cause of pulmonary emphysema.
According to reports, cigarette smoking is responsible for the majority of emphysema cases because it damages the lung tissues. Moreover, cigarettes can irritate the airways and cause inflammation.
This inflammation affects the cilia or the hair-like projections lining the bronchial tubes. Cilia function to “sweep” unwanted debris (such as microbes) from the airways. So when it sustains damage, the body will have a difficult time clearing the airways. As a result, there will be further inflammation and excessive mucus production, both of which lead to difficulty breathing.
What causes emphysema besides smoking?
While smoking is considered the main cause of emphysema, please note that there can also be other risk factors. Generally, anything that damages lung tissues, particularly the alveolar sacs, can trigger the development of emphysema.
Keeping this in mind, what causes emphysema besides smoking?
Age
One of the non-modifiable risk factors for emphysema is a person’s age. According to reports, the symptoms of emphysema often manifest in patients who are 40 years old and above.
Comments
Share your thoughts
Be the first to let Hello Doctor know your thoughts!
Join Us or Log In to join the discussion