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Breathlessness
Sometimes I feel as though I am awakened for lack of breath but I don't have problems breathing while awake or while exercizing. I don't have any other symptoms but I worry that this might be the onset of emphysema. I am a smoker but in the process of quitting. Do you think I may have early stage emphysema?
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
What you describe does not suggest emphysema. Awakening with "a lack of breath" suggests gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) usually, but not always associated with heartburn. Even more likely is some type of sleep disturbance, such as obstructive sleep apnea. You should consult with a lung specialist. You will probably need a sleep study.
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