Which symptom is less common in patients with emphysema?

In patients with emphysema, profound hypoxia is typically less common compared to other symptoms listed. Emphysema, which is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is characterized by the destruction of the alveoli and a decrease in lung elasticity. As a result, patients often experience symptoms such as muscle wasting due to the increased work of breathing and the body's inefficiency in gas exchange. Pursed-lip breathing is a common coping mechanism for patients with emphysema, helping to prolong exhalation and prevent airway collapse. Tachypnea, or rapid breathing, is also frequently observed in emphysema as the body attempts to compensate for reduced oxygen levels.

In contrast, profound hypoxia is not a typical hallmark of emphysema at early stages. While patients can experience hypoxia, it often occurs in more advanced stages or during exacerbations, rather than being a persistent or defining symptom in all individuals with emphysema. This makes profound hypoxia a less common symptom overall when compared to the other listed options.