Consequences of emphysema ?

Emphysema : Depends on severity and ongoing exposure to irritants (smoking/ second hand smoke/occupational exposures/etc). Chronic and progressive disease which results in shortness of breath, decline in oxygen saturation, decreased exercise tolerance, frequent exacerbations/ respiratory infections, and wasting syndrome.

Progressive...: Emphysema is a progressive disease and it progresses faster if smoking is continued. Symptoms of COPD include shortness of breath, cough sometimes productive of sputum, decreased oxygen level with increased carbon dioxide level, etc. With progression, the signs and symptoms worsen. COPD can lead to death so smoking cessation is necessary to slow progression. The patient should see doc for therapy.