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But how can you tell which is to blame for your labored breathing?
Asthma and COPD are both respiratory diseases, but very different conditions.
No surprise, this makes it difficult to breathe.
What is COPD?
Similar to asthma, with chronic bronchitis, the bronchial tubes become inflamed, but for different reasons.
So, what is the main difference between asthma and COPD?
Theres, unfortunately, no way to prevent asthma, but thats not the case with COPD.
For 85 to 90% of people with COPD, cigarette smoking is the culprit.
People with asthma will often say they have never touched a cigarette and avoid smoke as much as possible.
Or do you also deal withallergies, like hay fever, oreczema?
Then asthma is likely your answer, perNational Jewish Health.
Allergies and eczemaa noncontagious inflammatory skin condition are also very common in people with asthma.
In fact, up to80%of children with eczema develop asthma or allergies later in life.
What are the symptoms of asthma vs. COPD?
First of all, someone with asthma may have a great day with minimal symptoms.
Thats because asthma needs a trigger to result in symptoms.
What are the causes and risk factors for asthma vs. COPD?
Again, COPD is largely due to smoking or being exposed to secondhand smoke or other chemical fumes.
Genetics could also play a role, but its rare.
Those people may develop COPD without ever picking up a cigarette.
How are asthma and COPD diagnosed?
A specialist will make the diagnosis based on your clinical history, including symptoms and pulmonary function testing.
It doesnt mean you have twice the burden.
Its simply a way for your doctor to prescribe a treatment plan thats best for you.
Do asthma and COPD have different triggers?
After 18 months, the researchers found that low temperature and high humidity were likely to trigger COPD symptoms2.
How is asthma treated and managed?
Asthma can usually be managedwith the help of asthma medicines, according to theAmerican Lung Association.
There are also combination medications that include two types of medication.
Vaccinations against respiratory infections, like pneumonia, are key for both asthma and COPD.
While medications and vaccinations are essential for asthma treatment, you have the starring role.
Avoiding triggers is a huge part of any asthma management plan.
(We promise he will be fine in his own comfy bed on the floor.)
How is COPD treated and managed?
If you smoke and have COPD, quitting is your best bet.
Its virtually impossible to slow the progression of damage to the lungs if you dont.
Of course, this process can feel daunting and be really challenging, but it can be done.
To avoid infectionssomething people with COPD are susceptible toyour doctor may prescribe an antibiotic during flare-ups.
It can help people with COPD feel more comfortable and allow them to carry on with daily activities.
Finally, surgery is an option for certain people with severe emphysema.
That can include:
Are there lifestyle changes that can help?
Another step you’re able to take is filtering out triggers that exacerbate asthma and COPD.
Its sort of like a vacuum for the air you breathe.
Are there conditions that occur with asthma and COPD?
If you have asthma or COPD, you may also be at risk for other conditions.
You shouldnt have to struggle to breathe (even if you do smoke!).
There are treatments options available and resources to help you quit smoking.
Dont hesitate to reach out to your doctortheyll help you breathe a little easier.
