What can be initial signs of emphysema?

Emphysema : The elasticity of the lung is impaired in emphysema reducing the patient's ability to exhale resulting in wheezing and shortness of breath. Early symptoms may also include daily cough particularly in the morning. Recurrent episodes of bronchitis can occur as the disease progresses. Severe emphysema can also cause low oxygen levels, heart failure, and death.

Not many: Weight loss and shortness of breath.

Emphysema.: Emphysema is a destruction of lung tissue with resultant reduction in oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange and respiratory effort. This leads to shortness of breath and chronic productive cough. It's usually due to smoking but could be due to other medial conditions. It's treatable but not curable.