Where respiratory conditions are concerned, asthma and bronchitis are two easily confused diseases that have some similar symptoms. However, they are both separate disorders with varied causes, treatments, and treatment methods. Being aware of the difference between asthma and bronchitis helps in proper diagnosis as well as treatment.
Here in this article, we will learn about the most important differences between asthma and bronchitis, their symptoms, causes, and treatment. We will also learn how you can control these diseases properly, using medicines such as Levolin, which is useful for the control of symptoms of asthma.
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What Is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic disease that results in inflammation and constriction of the airways in the lungs. It results in shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and breathing difficulty. Asthma is usually caused by environmental stimuli like allergens (mold, pollen, dust mites), smoke, or air pollution. In other instances, physical exertion or stress can also trigger asthma symptoms.
The inflammation in asthma leads to the swelling of airways and production of excess mucus, preventing air from moving into and out of the lungs. Asthma may be diagnosed during childhood but also occurs during adulthood.
What Is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis is a term that is used for the inflammation of bronchial tubes, through which air travels to and from the lungs. Bronchitis is usually categorized into two categories:
- Acute Bronchitis: It is usually due to viral infections such as the common cold or flu. Acute bronchitis is short-lived, lasting several days to weeks, and is often characterized by a chronic cough, production of mucus, and wheezing. It is usually self-limiting and may resolve with time and proper rest.
- Chronic Bronchitis: A chronic condition most commonly brought on by smoking or irritant exposure. Chronic bronchitis has a chronic cough and production of mucus for at least three months for two consecutive years. It is one of the conditions included in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which is a collection of lung diseases that block airflow and make it hard to breathe.
Key Differences Between Asthma and Bronchitis
Causes
- Asthma: Asthma is typically caused by outdoor allergens, respiratory viruses, or irritants such as smoke. Asthma is a chronic illness that can be inherited or acquired over a period of time as a result of exposure to triggers.
- Bronchitis: Viral infections or bacterial infections usually cause acute bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis is commonly caused by smoking or long-term exposure to airborne irritants such as dust and fumes.
Duration of Symptoms
- Asthma: Asthma symptoms are chronic and can be for days, weeks, or more. Symptoms of asthma tend to increase and can get worse in some situations like during allergy season or following exercise.
- Bronchitis: The symptoms of acute bronchitis typically last for several days to several weeks, whereas symptoms of chronic bronchitis last for months or years, especially in smokers.
Cough
- Asthma: Asthma cough is typically dry or wheezing. The cough can be worse at night or early morning.
- Bronchitis: In chronic bronchitis, coughing is productive, i.e., it produces mucus. In acute bronchitis, the cough is initially dry but later becomes productive as the illness evolves.
Breathing Difficulties
- Asthma: Wheezing and shortness of breath occur because of narrowed airways and inflammation in the lungs. It results in difficulty breathing, particularly with physical exertion or when exposed to triggers.
- Bronchitis: Breathing difficulties in bronchitis, particularly chronic bronchitis, are brought about by swelling of the bronchial tubes and overproduction of mucus. This can result in persistent wheezing, particularly in chronic conditions.
Treatment
- Asthma: Asthma is generally managed with bronchodilators such as Levolin (a widely used inhaler), which help to dilate the bronchi and make breathing simpler. Long-term control medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids, can also be used to control inflammation.
- Bronchitis: Acute bronchitis tends to be treated with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter drugs to help minimise symptoms. For infections caused by bacteria, antibiotics can be prescribed. For chronic bronchitis, treatment of the condition might involve medications that can help open up the air passageways and combat inflammation, in addition to lifestyle modifications such as smoking cessation.
How To Manage Asthma And Bronchitis
Treatment of both asthma and bronchitis, whether acute or chronic, can include medication and lifestyle modification. For asthma, medications such as Levolin from any online medical store can reduce the symptoms and prevent an attack of asthma. Levolin relaxes the muscles surrounding the airways so that they open up and ease breathing. Proper inhaler use should be advised by your doctor to avoid worsening asthma.
For bronchitis, depending on the type, the treatment is different. Acute bronchitis is usually treated with rest and fluids, whereas chronic bronchitis can need long-term medication, changes in lifestyle, and sometimes pulmonary rehabilitation. Stopping smoking and preventing exposure to irritants is important while managing chronic bronchitis.
When To See A Doctor?
It is essential to consult a medical professional if you have symptoms such as recurring coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or tightness in the chest. If you suffer from asthma or bronchitis, a physician can guide you to the appropriate treatment and observe your condition to avoid complications. Adhering to the treatment plan and using inhalers such as Levolin can be of great help in controlling your symptoms.
Conclusion
Asthma and bronchitis are two distinct diseases, yet they both bring about inflammation in the airways and lead to similar symptoms such as coughing and breathlessness. Understanding how they differ from one another can enable you to obtain the proper treatment. Asthma usually calls for the prescription of bronchodilators such as Levolin to keep the symptoms in check, while bronchitis might need treatments that vary according to the type. Understanding what you have and cooperating with your medical practitioner will assist you in effectively managing it.
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