Emphysema - Glossary

Glossary

Emphysema: Pulmonary emphysema is a disorder affecting the alveoli (tiny air sacs) of the lungs. The transfer of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs takes place in the walls of the alveoli. In emphysema, the alveoli become abnormally inflated, damaging their walls and making it harder to breathe. People who smoke or have chronic bronchitis have an increased risk of emphysema.

Asthma: In simple terms asthma refers to increased responsiveness of lower airways to multiple stimuli. It can be acute - when it lasts for a short period or chronic- when it lasts for days.


Bronchioles: The tiny branches of air tubes in the lungs.

Pulmonary hypertension: Increased blood pressure in the arteries supplying blood to the lungs; caused by increased resistance to blood flow in the lungs, usually a result of a lung disease

Cyanosis: Blue colored skin caused by too little oxygen in the blood.

Spirometry: An instrument used to measure the lung's capacity.

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