Respiratory Diseases — Asthma, COPD, Allergic Rhinitis

Respiratory diseases affect the lungs and airways, making breathing difficult and reducing overall quality of life. Among the most common conditions are Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and Allergic Rhinitis. Each has unique features, yet they often share overlapping symptoms like breathlessness, coughing, and wheezing. Understanding their causes, symptoms, and treatment is essential for timely management.

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, characterized by recurring episodes of wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and cough, especially at night or early morning.

• Symptoms: Wheezing, breathlessness, persistent cough, chest tightness.
• Causes: Genetic predisposition, environmental allergens (dust, pollen, mold), respiratory infections, air pollution, exercise, or stress.
• Treatment: Inhaled bronchodilators and corticosteroids are the mainstay. Avoidance of triggers, allergy management, and long-term preventive medications help control the disease.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD is a progressive disease caused by long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases, most often from cigarette smoking. It results in airflow limitation that is not fully reversible.

• Symptoms: Chronic cough, sputum production, wheezing, progressive shortness of breath, frequent respiratory infections.
• Causes: Long-term smoking, air pollution, occupational dust/chemicals, and rarely genetic deficiency (Alpha-1 antitrypsin).
• Treatment: Smoking cessation is the most important step. Bronchodilators, inhaled steroids, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and in advanced cases, surgery may be required.

Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic Rhinitis, commonly called hay fever, is an allergic response of the nasal passages to airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander, or mold.

• Symptoms: Sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes/nose/throat, watery eyes, postnasal drip.
• Causes: Immune system overreaction to environmental allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander.
• Treatment: Allergen avoidance, antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays, decongestants, and immunotherapy in severe cases.

Conclusion

Asthma, COPD, and Allergic Rhinitis are common respiratory diseases with significant impact on health. Early recognition of symptoms, avoidance of triggers, and proper medical care help control these conditions and improve quality of life.