bronchitis and asthma are two very different conditions, although they both affect the respiratory system. bronchitis is an infection of the airways, whereas asthma is a chronic condition that results in inflamed and narrowed airways. this infographic provides a good overview of the key differences between these two conditions.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a condition that affects the airways. The airways are the tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. Asthma occurs when the airways become narrow and swollen. This makes it hard to breathe. Asthma can also make the muscles around the airways tight. Asthma attacks happen when something bothers the airways. Many things can bother the airways and cause an asthma attack. Asthma attacks can be frightening. Asthma is a chronic disease that has no cure, but it can be controlled with proper treatment. With proper treatment, people with asthma can live normal, active lives. Asthma is a common condition that affects millions of Americans. It is important to learn about asthma and how to control it.
What is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis is a condition that occurs when the airways in the lungs become inflamed. The inflammation can be caused by a viral infection, such as the common cold, or by exposure to irritants, such as smoke or fumes. Bronchitis can either be acute, meaning it comes on suddenly and lasts for a short time, or chronic, meaning it develops over time and can last for months or even years. Symptoms of bronchitis include coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Bronchitis is treated with a combination of rest, humidified air, and medications to relieve symptoms. In some cases, bronchitis may require hospitalization.
Difference between Asthma and Bronchitis
Asthma is a chronic disease that affects the airways in the lungs. The airways are tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. Asthma causes the airways to become inflamed and narrow, making it difficult to breathe. Asthma symptoms can include shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing. Asthma attacks can be triggered by allergies, cold weather, exercise, or smoke.
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the lungs. Bronchitis can be caused by a viral infection, bacteria, or exposure to irritants such as smoke or chemicals. Bronchitis symptoms include coughing up mucus, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Asthma is a chronic condition that cannot be cured, but it can be controlled with medication. Bronchitis is usually caused by an infection and will often go away on its own within a few weeks. However, some cases of bronchitis may require antibiotics to clear the infection.
Conclusion
Asthma and bronchitis are two respiratory diseases that can cause difficulty breathing. While they share some common symptoms, there are key differences between the two conditions. If you’re not sure which condition you or a loved one has, it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis from a doctor. With the right treatment, both asthma and bronchitis can be managed so that you can breathe easier.
