Final answer:
Emphysema is a chronic lung disease caused by the breakdown of lung tissue, chronic bronchitis is a type of COPD characterized by inflamed airways and excessive mucus production, and asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways triggered by environmental factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Emphysema: Emphysema is a chronic lung disease caused by the breakdown of the lung tissue. It is characterized by symptoms such as shortness of breath, chronic cough, and wheezing, and it is usually caused by cigarette smoking.
Chronic Bronchitis: Chronic bronchitis is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) where the airways become inflamed and produce excessive mucus, leading to a persistent cough and difficulty breathing.
Asthma: Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, characterized by symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. It is triggered by environmental factors and can be managed with medication and avoidance of triggers.