What is the primary characteristic of emphysema?

Study for the Denver Health EMT Practice Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question comes with helpful hints and explanations. Get set to ace your exam!

The primary characteristic of emphysema is the loss of elasticity in lung tissues. Emphysema, which is one of the conditions included under the umbrella of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), involves the destruction of the alveoli (the small air sacs in the lungs) and the surrounding tissue. This destruction leads to diminished elastic recoil of the lungs, making it difficult for them to expel air effectively.

When the elasticity is compromised, the lungs are unable to return to their original shape after inhalation, which can result in air becoming trapped and a decreased ability to take in fresh air for the next breath. This characteristic is fundamental to the pathophysiology of emphysema, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath during exertion or even at rest.

While increased air trapping can occur due to loss of elasticity, the more defining feature is the loss of elastic recoil itself. It's also important to note that inflammation of the bronchi and overproduction of mucus typically relate more to chronic bronchitis, which is another form of COPD and distinct from emphysema.

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