Emphysema is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that usually develops after many years of abuse to the lung tissues from smoking or other pollutants. As a result, the lungs lose their elasticity and exhaling becomes difficult. The primary symptom of emphysema is shortness of breath or the feeling of not being able to get enough air. Treatment options for emphysema may include medications, pulmonary rehabilitation, and surgery.