Emphysema and asthma are two respiratory diseases that share some similar symptoms. Although sometimes confused, these diseases affect different parts of the respiratory system and generally have a different prognosis. Asthma, while often a serious condition, is often much more treatable than emphysema.
One of the main differences between emphysema and asthma is the location of the infection. Asthma infects the airways, usually causing a reversible blockage that limits oxygen intake and restricts airway flow. Emphysema attacks lung tissue, causing progressive degradation over time. It is possible to have both conditions simultaneously, as they are separate diseases. If the respiratory system is in poor condition due to smoking or other factors, either condition can develop.
Emphysema and asthma tend to affect different groups of people. Asthma is often diagnosed in childhood, as a result of environmental factors, allergies, exposure to secondhand smoke, and a variety of other problems. Emphysema occurs almost exclusively in adults, usually beginning to appear after peaks in lung function around the age of 30. Asthma can develop in adults, particularly those who smoke or are heavily exposed to pollution. Emphysema almost never appears in children or young adults.
Treatment options for asthma and emphysema have different success rates. Both conditions are often treated with a medicine that opens the airways called bronchodilator . This medication is usually taken in aerated form through an inhaler to speed its progress into the lungs. Steroids are also sometimes used in inhalers to help reduce lung inflammation. Asthma is usually managed with inhalers and by avoiding irritants to the respiratory system; Many children with asthma experience a decline or complete dissipation of the condition as they age and the lungs grow to full capacity.
A large part of treatment for both diseases involves avoiding factors that cause attacks or symptoms. Strenuous exercise, extreme temperatures, allergy exposure, and smoking are strongly discouraged for patients with any of these conditions. Smoking is considered especially dangerous; Many adults who develop any of these conditions have a long history of smoking. People with emphysema and asthma can also be sensitive to secondhand smoke, so avoiding all sources of smoke inhalation at home and in public can be essential to good health.
The real difference between emphysema and asthma lies in the prognosis. Asthma causes inflammation that is almost always reversible with treatment; In general, the condition will not worsen significantly over time. Emphysema irreparably destroys lung tissue and vital air sacs; Although the disease can be delayed, it cannot be stopped.