I'm a bit confused about the differences between asthma and COPD. They both seem similar with the breathing issues, so how can I tell them apart? Also, someone mentioned that having COPD could complicate things if you need surgery. Should I be worried about any specific problems if someone with COPD has to undergo surgery?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Ibrahim Salah

General Practitioner

MBBS
2+ Yrs

Consult Now

Asthma is seen in childhood, whereas COPD is seen i adults above 40 years of age.Asthma is triggered by allergens like pollen or dust , whereas copd is due to smoking.Asthma airway obstruction is reversible whereas COPD obstruction is irreversible Asthma is treated by inflammation and copd is treated with bronchodilators. A diagnostic spirometry differntiates betweeen asthma and copd.

Dr. Ibrahim Suggests...

Consult a Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Find a Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Answered 04/07/2025

More Pulmonology/ Respiratory Medicine Health Queries

View all

I'm having some trouble with my breathingit feels heavy and like I have to really push to take a breath when I'm sitting down. But when I'm lying down, walking, or jogging, it doesn't bother me at all. I had a chest X-ray and a PFT a couple of months ago, and everything was normal. Do you think this could be related to my sitting posture, or is there something else going on? Would love some advice.

GERD

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm currently using a Foracort 200 inhaler and Nasonex nasal spray daily for asthma, which I got diagnosed with in 2018. I'm also taking Yasmin tablets due to PCOD. I'm wondering if it's safe for me to receive the COVID vaccine considering these medications. Could you please provide some guidance?

yes

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm dealing with bronchitis for the past couple of years and I'm thinking about getting the COVID vaccine. Is it safe for me to get vaccinated given my condition? Would appreciate any insights or advice on this.

donot take it if you are having active symptoms

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Health Articles for you

View all

General Medical Consultation

Guide to Lung Health Awareness On World COPD Day

Learn about lung health awareness on World COPD Day. Discover the importance of early detection, prevention, and care for better breathing and well-being.

Smoking Cessation

Your Guide to Quit Smoking Today Before It's Too Late

Know about quitting smoking, why its dangerous, action plan to quit, bodys reaction, tools and therapies to quit and more.

General Medical Consultation

Hypercapnia: Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Understand hypercapnia, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Learn how elevated carbon dioxide levels affect the body and ways to manage the condition effectively.

respiratory-conditions

Pulmonary Fibrosis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Discover the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for pulmonary fibrosis. Learn how to manage this progressive lung disease and improve quality of life.

General Medical Consultation

Guide to Lung Health Awareness

Learn how to improve your lung health and recognize the signs of common respiratory illnesses. This guide offers practical tips, from lifestyle changes to understanding air quality, to help you breathe easier and live healthier.

Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.