Respiratory resource hub for patients and carers. Click on the following link to access this resource:
https://rightdecisions.scot.nhs.uk/respiratory-resource-hub-for-patients-and-carers/
What is asthma?
Asthma is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and may produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, a whistling sound (wheezing) when you breathe out and shortness of breath.
For some people, asthma is a minor nuisance. For others, it can be a major problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to a life-threatening asthma attack.
Asthma can't be cured, but its symptoms can be controlled. Because asthma often changes over time, it's important that you work with your doctor to track your signs and symptoms and adjust your treatment as needed.
For more information, please click on the links below:
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/lungs-and-airways/asthma/
https://www.asthma.org.uk/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/asthma/
What is COPD?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. Symptoms include breathing difficulty, cough, mucus (sputum) production and wheezing. It's typically caused by long-term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, most often from cigarette smoke. People with COPD are at increased risk of developing heart disease, lung cancer and a variety of other conditions.
Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two most common conditions that contribute to
COPD. These two conditions usually occur together and can vary in severity among individuals with
COPD.
Chronic bronchitis is inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs. It's characterized by daily cough and mucus (sputum) production.
Emphysema is a condition in which the alveoli at the end of the smallest air passages (bronchioles) of the lungs are destroyed as a result of damaging exposure to cigarette smoke and other irritating gases and particulate matter.
Although COPD is a progressive disease that gets worse over time, COPD is treatable. With proper management, most people with COPD can achieve good symptom control and quality of life, as well as reduced risk of other associated conditions.
For more information, please click on the links below:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-copd/
https://www.blf.org.uk/support-for-you/copd/what-is-copd
These links come from trusted sources - if you are unsure about these or any other medical matters please contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.