Superficial to the gland is the sternum. Lying deep to the thymus are the great vessels and the cranial part of the pericardium. The two lobes of the gland differ in size, and in many individuals the right lobe overlaps the left lobe. The thymus is about 5 cm long, 4 cm wide, and 6 mm thick.
Signs and Symptoms of Emphysema Symptoms of emphysema vary from mild to severe and include shortness of breath (dyspnea), cough, and difficulty breathing upon exertion (e.g., exercise). Emphysema is a chronic (long lasting), progressive condition, which means the symptoms usually worsen over time.
In the early stages of COPD, there may be no symptoms, or you may only have mild symptoms, such as: 1  A nagging cough (often called smoker's cough). 2  Shortness of breath, especially with physical activity. 3  Wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe).4  Tightness in the chest.hronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a serious lung disease that gradually makes it harder and harder to breathe. COPD includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis.