Asthma

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition manifested by variable constriction and sqelling of the breathing tubes and airways and triggered by various factors, such as cold air or pollens.

Swelling of the airway wall and tightening of the muscles around the airway results in the narrowing of the breathing tubes (bronchi and bronchioles). Wheeze, chest tightness, breathlessness and cough are classic symptoms of asthma.

The swelling may produce an obstruction of the breathing tubes or airways, similar COPD. Some people have both COPD and Asthma.

Asthma is often believed to be a disease that affects children and young adults. However, asthma can occur in all age groups.

What is COPD?

The term Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is commonly used to describe a person who has chronic bronchitis, emphysema, chronic asthma or a combination of these conditions. These conditions cause shortness of breath. Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease (COAD), is also a term that has been used to describe COPD.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the second leading cause of avoidable hospital admissions. COPD impacts significantly on the day-to-day lives of people with the disease, their families and carers, and the health system. While there is no cure for COPD, there are many things people can do to improve their symptoms and therefore the quality of their lives.