What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Alpha-1
Antitrypsin Deficiency?
You may have alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency if
you have signs and symptoms of serious lung disease without any obvious cause.
Another sign of AAT deficiency is if you develop
emphysema at age 45 years or younger.
Signs and symptoms of emphysema include:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing (a whistling or squeaky sound when you
breathe)
- Decreased ability to do physical activity
At first, many people who have AAT deficiency are
diagnosed with
asthma.
This is because wheezing is also a symptom of asthma. Also, people who have AAT
deficiency respond well to asthma medicines. |