Patient was instructed upon signs and symptoms of emphysema as follows:
- Mucus trapped in the airways and damage to the alveoli in the lungs contribute to the chest discomfort, difficulty breathing, poor gas exchange.
- Reduced gas exchange result in increased carbon dioxide levels in the body and reduced oxygen availability for metabolic needs. This can lead to exacerbation of shortness of breath, low oxygen saturations, episodes of dizziness and confusion, reduced endurance and exercise tolerance, and increased fatigue.
- Blue tinge to the skin and mucus membranes, secondary to reduced oxygen levels in the body.
- Rapid breathing and rapid heartbeat to compensate for poor oxygen transport.
