Emphysema is a respiratory disease characterized by enlarged air sacs in the lungs and breathing difficulties. It is most commonly caused by long-term cigarette smoking which damages the walls of the air sacs. Symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing, and weight loss as the lungs become less able to take in oxygen over time. Treatment focuses on stopping smoking, exercises to strengthen breathing muscles, oxygen therapy, and possibly surgery to remove damaged lung tissue. The disease impacts physical, social, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual health as it progresses and limits the ability to be active or pursue goals.