How does emphysema affect the body?

Emphysema affects the body as it progresses by the linings of the air sacs in the lungs receiving damage either by toxins introduced to the body or other sources i.e. air pollution. As it progresses air pockets in the lungs develop when the tissue between the air sacs are destroyed. Air ends up getting trapped in these pockets causing the lungs to enlarge making it more difficult to take full breaths.