Emphysema is a lung disease that reduces the ability of the lungs to expel air, a process that depends upon the natural rubber-band-like quality or elastic properties of the lungs. This can be caused by old age, but the primary reason is smoking. If you have not quit smoking and have emphysema, then that is the first step. Until you do that, everything else will be pointless!
When you're having a hard time breathing, sit down, lean forward and put your elbows on your knees. This position can make breathing easier because it elevates the diaphragm, the most important muscle used for breathing.
You can also drink a tea made from rose hips, garlic and fennel. This will help with the congestion and the healing process.
Rubbing eucalyptus or garlic oil to help with congestion. Comfrey and fenugreek capsules will help the build up of mucus. Along with that, take 500 mg of NAC, which is an amino acid. This stops the strings that hold the mucus together.
Emphysema is a very serious and chronic disease. You should be under the supervision of a physician and inform him of the treatments you are interested in.