What is the difference between emphysema and asthma? emphysema is an inflammation of the lungs, while asthma is a bacterial infection of the lungs. emphysema is the gradual destruction of the alveoli, while asthma is a sensitivity to irritants that causes the airway to constrict. emphysema is a sensitivity to irritants that causes the airway to constrict, while asthma is the gradual destruction of the alveoli. emphysema is a bacterial infection of the lungs, while asthma is an inflammation of the lungs.