The Overlap Between Asthma and COPD: How to Differentiate and Treat
If you or a loved one experiences frequent shortness of breath, wheezing, or coughing, you might wonder whether it’s asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While these conditions share similarities, they require different approaches to treatment. Understanding the differences can lead to better management and improved quality of life.
Asthma vs. COPD: Key Differences
Can You Have Both?
Yes! Some people have Asthma-COPD Overlap Syndrome (ACOS), where characteristics of both diseases are present. This can make diagnosis and treatment more complex, requiring a personalized approach.
Treatment Approaches
- Asthma Management:
- Inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators
- Avoiding known triggers
- Allergy treatments like immunotherapy if allergies play a role
- COPD Management:
- Smoking cessation (the most crucial step!)
- Long-acting inhalers and oxygen therapy for advanced cases
- Pulmonary rehabilitation to strengthen lung function
FAQs
- How can I tell if my symptoms are from asthma or COPD?
A doctor can perform lung function tests like spirometry to assess how well your lungs are working. - Can asthma turn into COPD?
Asthma itself doesn’t “turn into” COPD, but long-term uncontrolled asthma may contribute to lung damage. - What should I do if my inhalers don’t seem to be working?
Talk to your doctor about adjusting your treatment plan. You may need additional medications or a different approach.
Personal Anecdote
I once had a patient in her 50s who had been treated for asthma for years but never fully responded to standard asthma medications. After further testing, we realized she had ACOS—both asthma and COPD. By adjusting her treatment to include COPD-specific therapies, she experienced a dramatic improvement in her breathing and quality of life.
Final Thoughts
If you’re unsure whether you have asthma, COPD, or both, don’t guess—get tested. Early diagnosis and the right treatment plan can make all the difference in how you feel and function every day.
What are you waiting for? If you or your child need help controlling allergies or if you think you need testing or treatment or that you might be a good candidate for allergy shots, Dr. Wendt and her team staff at Relieve Allergy, Asthma & Hives would love to help. Call for testing or treatment today!
Call 480-500-1902 or request an appointment at https://relieveallergyaz.com/contact now! Begin your allergy testing journey with Dr. Wendt at Relieve Allergy in Scottsdale, Arizona—It’s time to take care of yourself!
Learn more about Dr. Wendt and Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives at www.relieveallergyaz.com or connect with us: https://www.facebook.com/RelieveAllergy/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-wendt/, https://x.com/RelieveAllergy, https://www.instagram.com/relieve_allergy/ or https://www.youtube.com/@JulieWendt-qx7jm.
Did you know? Dr. Wendt wrote the book on allergies. Buy it NOW!
Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives is located near Kierland Commons, 21803 N. Scottsdale Road Ste. 200, and has convenient evening and morning hours to accommodate your schedule. Dr. Wendt is also available for telemedicine appointments as appropriate. Most insurance plans are accepted.
DISCLAIMER: This blog is not meant to substitute for medical care by an Allergist-Immunologist nor is it intended to provide medical advice or imply a Physician-Patient relationship with its readers or their family. It is intended to provide guidance, direction, and moral support from someone experienced in testing and treating allergies. This is also not meant to be a “do-it-yourself” manual or a “how to” overcome your allergies. Some of the issues mentioned, whether allergic or look-a-like, can be dangerous or if left unchecked, deadly. Please develop a relationship with a Physician you trust to help you with diagnosis, advice, questions, and treatment regarding your and your family’s medical conditions.
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