Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are both respiratory conditions that can make it hard to breathe, especially during flare-ups. While asthma and COPD share many similarities, they’re often triggered and treated in different ways.
Asthma vs. COPD
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic condition that causes the airways in your lungs to become inflamed and narrow, making it hard to breathe. Asthma flare ups can affect people of all ages, but it often starts in childhood and can be well-managed with treatment. Asthma attacks can happen suddenly and are often triggered by specific allergens or irritants, like pollen, dust or exercise.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
COPD is a progressive lung disease that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, usually caused by long-term smoking or exposure to lung irritants. COPD primarily affects older adults and causes persistent airflow blockage, making breathing difficult over time. Unlike asthma, COPD symptoms are present most of the time, though they can worsen during flare-ups.
Asthma Flare-Ups
Symptoms
Asthma symptoms can vary widely from person to person, but common signs of an asthma flare-up include:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Tightness in chest
- Coughing
Common Causes
Asthma is often triggered by specific factors, including:
- Allergens
- Smoke and strong odors
- Infections
- Cold weather
- Exercise
Avoiding triggers or taking preventive steps can help reduce the risk of asthma flare-ups. You can also manage these asthma attacks with a combination of breathing exercises and quick-relief medications like an inhaler.
COPD Flare-Ups
Symptoms
COPD symptoms are typically present daily but can worsen during flare-ups. Signs of a COPD flare-up may include:
- Increased shortness of breath
- Worsened cough
- More mucus production
- Tightness in chest
- Wheezing
- Fatigue
Common Causes
COPD flare-ups are often linked to factors like:
- Respiratory infections
- Pollution and smoke
- Weather changes
- Physical exertion
Respiratory infections are a significant trigger for COPD so vaccination against the flu and pneumonia is often recommended to reduce the risk of flare-ups. Managing a COPD flare-up may require additional support, as symptoms can worsen progressively. Rescue inhalers or nebulizers are commonly used for flare-ups and mucus-thinning medications, oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation are used to manage long-term symptoms.
Next Steps
While asthma and COPD cannot be cured, understanding the triggers and taking preventive steps can minimize their impact on your life. If you’re ever unsure about your symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor. If you don’t have one, Northeast Georgia Physicians Group has many providers to fit your needs. Many are currently accepting new patients and offer same- and next-day appointments. With the right plan, you can breathe easier and lead a healthier life despite asthma or COPD.