What chronic lung disease results from trapped air in the alveoli, commonly due to smoking?

• A. Asthma
• B. Emphysema
• C. Chronic Bronchitis
• D. Pneumonia

Answer: (B)

The condition characterized by trapped air in the alveoli, particularly as a result of smoking, is emphysema. This chronic lung disease involves the gradual destruction of the alveoli, which are the small air sacs in the lungs responsible for gas exchange. As the alveoli are damaged, they lose their elasticity and become enlarged, leading to difficulty in expelling air from the lungs. This retained air causes a sensation of breathlessness, as it reduces the surface area available for oxygen exchange.

Emphysema is part of a broader group of diseases known as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and it is primarily influenced by long-term exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke. This highlights the significant relationship between smoking and the development of emphysema. In contrast, asthma involves reversible airway obstruction and inflammation rather than trapped air; chronic bronchitis is marked by productive cough and inflammation of the bronchi rather than alveolar damage; pneumonia is an infection leading to fluid in the alveoli, not a chronic obstructive issue like emphysema.