COPD and Asthma

Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD are common lung ailments that affect people for many years. Although these two respiratory diseases are different, they can both have serious impact on a person's health.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a type of lung illness in which the respiratory airways becomes constricted or narrow. This limits the flow of air to lungs which in turn causes difficulty in breathing. This condition is commonly caused by excessive smoking.

Asthma is also a chronic condition where in the respiratory system becomes inflamed and restricted. But unlike COPD, asthma is triggered mostly by allergies. Most common allergens include dusts, dirt, pollens, insects, smoke, perfume and many more. Other elements such as moist or damp air, emotional stress, and even vigorous exercise can also cause asthma.

COPD and asthma exhibits similar symptoms. Individuals with these illnesses can experience shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and tightness in the chest.

Although COPD and asthma have the same symptoms, the two requires different kinds treatments. Since asthma is merely caused by allergies, an anti-inflammatory medication should be beneficial. Patients with COPD however, needs a much stronger treatment such as flare ups, steroids, as well as lung rehabilitation.