What symptom is commonly associated with both emphysema and chronic bronchitis?

Cough is a prominent symptom that is commonly associated with both emphysema and chronic bronchitis, which are both forms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In emphysema, the destruction of the alveoli leads to difficulties in breathing and often results in a chronic cough as the body tries to clear mucus from the lungs. In chronic bronchitis, the inflammation of the bronchial tubes produces excess mucus, leading to persistent coughing as the body's mechanism to expel the mucus. This cough is often productive, meaning it may bring up mucus, and can occur daily, especially in the morning.

The other options, while they may be symptoms of different conditions, are not characteristic of these specific types of lung diseases. Persistent fever is usually associated with infections rather than COPD. Chest swelling might occur due to heart failure or other conditions but is not a key symptom of emphysema or chronic bronchitis. Joint pain is generally unrelated to these respiratory conditions, as it is more commonly associated with autoimmune disorders or other musculoskeletal issues. Therefore, cough stands out as a defining characteristic symptom shared by both emphysema and chronic bronchitis.