Is It Asthma Or Copd?

Wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and tightening of the chest are the usual symptoms of asthma. However, these are also symptoms of other more serious lung diseases. In fact, millions of people are living undiagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), an umbrella term for chronic bronchitis and emphysema. According to U.S. National Institute of Health, COPD is considered to be a more serious disease because it had less favorable prognosis and linked with greater morbidity and mortality. 

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Different tests can be conducted to determine if the symptoms are because of asthma or other lung conditions. Some of these tests are peak flow test, spirometry test, and methacholine test. These tests examine how well the air moves out of the lungs, how much air is exhaled and how quickly, and the last test mentioned is inhaling a chemical to see how it affects the lungs. 

As mentioned, the symptoms of asthma and COPD are the same, but the causes are different. A person with chronic bronchitis has swollen and mucus-filled airways. The same happens to people with asthma, but it is a reaction to a trigger such as dust, pollen, or cigarette smoke. 

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Another difference is that asthma diagnosis often occurs in childhood. However, COPD is often a result of years of smoking, which makes the disease to progress throughout the years. Thus, COPD diagnosis does not usually happen until the person is 40 years old or older. 

Always remember that before getting the best treatment, patients should get the right diagnosis first. 

Dr. Lisa Marie Cannon specializes in pulmonology and internal medicine. Follow this Twitter account for more articles on health and medicine.

Climate Change: A Fuel for Allergens

For most people, daffodils and flowers blooming mark the end of winter and the start of spring. But for 40 million Americans, the start of spring means endless sneezing, nasal congestion, and discomfort.

According to researchers, pollen allergies will worsen because of climate change. There are three main factors on how climate change will affect those with seasonal allergies: (1) carbon dioxide increases the growth rate of plants and pollen potency, (2) rising temperatures allow for longer “allergy season,” and (3) more flowers and fungal spores will worsen allergy symptoms.

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Carbon dioxide is needed for plant growth, alongside water, nutrients, and light. It also produces extra nutrients for plants, that even the smallest increase will cause a bigger effect. Because of change in carbon dioxide composition, all caused by climate change, these signs will make things worse for those with asthma and allergies.

With climate change, even people who do not have pollen allergies at the moment could develop it eventually—when air quality is much worse.

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People who have grass and pollen allergies for now can avoid the upcoming sneezefest by staying away from all possible allergens. They should keep a mask at hand, and drink lots of fluid. They should also take anti-allergy medicines from time to time, too.

Dr. Lisa Marie Cannon is a specialist in internal medicine and pulmonary care. Follow this Twitter account for updates on similar topics.

Five home remedies for asthma

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The cases of asthma attacks have increased dramatically over the past decade. In fact, the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology estimates that 300 million people worldwide suffer from asthma, a figure that leads to 250 deaths yearly.

For those who have loved ones suffering from the disease, managing the residence, the immediate environment, is the first line of defense. Here are some home remedies that can alleviate and prevent asthma attacks:

Avoid pets and other allergy triggers. A chronic respiratory disease, asthma normally activates around furry pets, which are known as carriers of a strong allergen called dander found on fur. Bathing pets regularly, however, can reduce the allergens they produce. Other triggers include cigarette and furry clothing.

Have a good diet. Certain types of food like milk, eggs, fish, and chocolate can lead to allergic responses including common symptoms of asthma. To be safe, one’s diet must be managed properly by checking on product contents.

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Be drug sensitive. Most asthma patients are allergic to certain drugs like aspirin. Hence, talk to your doctor and ask which drugs are allowed for you to take in case of emergency. It would also help to get your blood tested to know other allergic triggers associated with asthma.

Create a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Stress and emotional upsets can aggravate asthma attacks. Manage the home by changing its vibe through different color and furniture arrangements. Make it as homey as possible.

Stock natural home remedies in the kitchen. Coffee, onions, citrus fruits, and chili peppers are just some of the most effective cures for asthma. Keep them in the kitchen just in case you need them.

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Following these simple home remedies can help prevent asthma attacks. Remember to recognize the triggers to make sure your medication is keeping the symptoms under control.

Dr. Lisa Marie Cannon is an internist specializing in pulmonology and critical care. For more resources about respiratory diseases, subscribe to this blog.