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. When to see a doctor 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 
can emphysema years noticing signs symptoms  symptom emphysema shortness breath  begins gradually  may start avoiding activities cause short breath  symptom doesn't problem starts interfering daily tasks  emphysema eventually causes shortness breath you're rest  see doctor see doctor you've unexplained shortness breath months  especially it's worse it's interfering daily activities  don't ignore telling it's you're aging shape  seek medical attention if:  you're short breath  can't climb stairs lips fingernails turn blue gray exertion you're mentally alert 
emphysema