Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˌɛmfɪˈziːmə/

Definitions

• A chronic respiratory disease characterized by the progressive destruction of the lung tissue, resulting in shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.
• A condition where the air sacs in the lungs (alveoli) are damaged, causing a reduction in oxygen exchange in the blood.

Usage Examples

• He was diagnosed with emphysema after years of smoking.
• Emphysema is one of the leading causes of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• People with emphysema often experience difficulty in performing everyday activities due to breathlessness.

Etymology

The word "emphysema" comes from the Greek word "emphysan," meaning "to inflate" or "to puff up." The term was first used in medical texts in the early 18th century, referring to a condition in which the lungs appear inflated due to the excessive air trapped in the alveoli. The medical term "emphysema" was adopted in English in the 19th century.

Synonyms

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Lung disease
• Breathing disorder
• Airway obstruction

Antonyms

• Healthy lungs
• Normal respiration
• Good pulmonary function

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Emphysema's pronunciation remains largely consistent in most dialects of English, with slight regional variations in the stress placed on the syllables. In some areas, speakers may place more emphasis on the first syllable (/ˌɛmfɪˈziːmə/), while others may pronounce it with a softer emphasis on the middle syllable.

Historical Usage

The term "emphysema" has been in use since the early 19th century, derived from Greek roots. It has been a term for describing lung conditions characterized by abnormal air retention, initially used to describe symptoms like breathlessness and lung inflation. Over time, it became more specifically associated with chronic lung diseases, particularly in the context of smoking and air pollution, which are known causes of the disease.

Cultural Nuances

Emphysema, like other chronic respiratory diseases, is often associated with cultural perceptions of health and lifestyle choices. In many cultures, smoking is a leading cause of emphysema, and as a result, the condition is sometimes stigmatized. Public health efforts have shifted cultural views, especially as awareness has grown about environmental causes like pollution and occupational hazards.

More Information

Emphysema is a serious lung condition that affects millions worldwide. It is part of the group of diseases known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Emphysema is primarily caused by smoking, but other factors such as air pollution and genetic factors can also contribute. Early symptoms often include shortness of breath and a chronic cough. Treatment typically involves medication, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, oxygen therapy or surgery. Prevention, including smoking cessation and reduced exposure to harmful air pollutants, is the most effective strategy for managing the disease.