Symptoms of Alpha-1

The following symptoms could mean that you have Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency:

Early onset of emphysema (at age 45 or younger)
COPD – emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or bronchiectasis (inability to clear congestion/frequent lung infections)
Symptoms beginning between the ages of 25 and 50
Asthma – not fully reversible with asthma medication/inhalers
Shortness of breath (with routine activity or at rest)
Frequent cough – with or without mucus
Wheezing
Liver disease with no known cause
Necrotizing panniculitis (looks like raised red spots on the skin)
Family history of COPD (emphysema), liver disease, or unexplained death