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Chronic Asthma
- Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. The manifestations of Asthma and COPD are quite similar and it becomes difficult to tell the difference. However, onset of asthma is generally at a younger age.
- Generally a family history is present. Often there is a history of an allergic disease like rhinitis, eczema etc.
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Bronchiectasis
- Bronchiectasis is a condition characterized by irreversible dilatation of the bronchial tubes. It is caused by chronic inflammation and infection of the airways.
- It is marked by production of copious and purulent sputum and is often associated with frequent bacterial infections.
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Bronchiolitis Obliterans
- Bronchiolitis Obliterans is a rare disease. In this condition, the bronchioles become narrow and compressed due to scarring and inflammation.
- The symptoms of Bronchiectasis obliterans are similar to COPD and include cough, shortness of breath and wheezing. However, this is a very life-threatening and non-reversible condition.
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Congestive Heart Failure
- Congestive Heart Failure is a condition in which the heart becomes inadequate to pump out oxygen-rich blood to the body. It occurs due to a coronary artery disease or high blood pressure.
- The symptoms are shortness of breath especially on exertion, chest pain, fatigue, swelling of the legs, etc.
