Final answer:
The symptom diagnostic of emphysema is dyspnea, which is difficulty breathing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Emphysema is a chronic lung disease characterized by the breakdown of lung tissue, resulting in shortness of breath. COPD refers to the symptoms of chronic bronchitis and the lung changes that occur with it, including emphysema. One of the key symptoms of emphysema is dyspnea, which is difficulty breathing. It is important to note that copious sputum production and normal elastic recoil are not diagnostic symptoms of emphysema. Cor pulmonale, which refers to right-sided heart enlargement due to lung disease, can occur as a result of emphysema.