Most people with emphysema also have chronic bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis is inflammation of the tubes that carry air to your lungs (bronchial tubes), which leads to a persistent cough. Symptoms You can have emphysema for many years without noticing any signs or symptoms. The main symptom of emphysema is shortness of breath, which usually begins gradually. You may start avoiding activities that cause you to be short of breath, so the symptom doesn t become a problem until it starts interfering with daily tasks. Emphysema eventually causes shortness of breath even while you re at rest. advise : See your doctor if you ve had unexplained shortness of breath for several months, especially if it s getting worse or it s interfering with your daily activities. Don t ignore it by telling yourself it s because you re aging or out of shape. Seek immediate medical attention if: You re so short of breath, you can t climb stairs Your lips or fingernails turn blue or gray with exertion You re not mentally alert. I hope you happy with information kindly rate it. thank you.