Which of the following symptoms is often observed in patients with emphysema?

In patients with emphysema, a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), all of the symptoms listed are commonly observed, making the comprehensive choice the correct one.

Coughing can occur in emphysema due to mucus accumulation and airway irritation, although it may not be as pronounced as in other respiratory conditions like chronic bronchitis. Wheezing is another symptom that can manifest as the airway constricts, reducing airflow during breathing, particularly during exertion or exacerbations. However, the hallmark symptom that patients often report is shortness of breath, known as dyspnea, which arises from the damage to the alveoli and the reduction of effective surface area for gas exchange. This sensation can worsen with physical activity, as the lungs struggle to meet the oxygen demands of the body.

Each of these symptoms reflects different aspects of the respiratory compromise caused by emphysema, illustrating the complex nature of the disease and the multifaceted challenges it poses to patients. Thus, it's accurate to classify all the listed symptoms as part of the clinical presentation observed in individuals suffering from emphysema.