Asthma
This chronic condition affects the airways that carry air in and out of the lungs as well as the bronchial tubes. Sufferers overreact to air pollution, mold, chemical sprays, smoke, dust mites, pollen, and a host of other irritants.
When in contact with said irritants, the airway becomes inflamed, swollen, and overall highly sensitive. Due to the airways getting narrower it can become increasingly difficult to breathe.
Getting a cold can also cause the same reactions.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, also known as COPD, actually refers to two conditions, emphysema and chronic bronchitis, though it is common for them to occur together.
Emphysema causes the lung tissue to weaken while creating extra mucus. As the disease progresses, the air sacs break down, obstructing the oxygen from entering the blood.
This can lead to wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
On the other hand, chronic bronchitis causes the airways to be irritated. Our bodies create extra mucus which can further lead to a lot of coughing.
Due to this the airways become scarred, at which point airflow is limited.
