Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes the bronchial tubes (air passages) to become inflamed and constricted. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute report that more than 22 million people in the United States have asthma and 6 million of those are children. Asthma causes shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing and tightness in the chest. There are several other diseases that cause similar symptoms and are therefore related to asthma.
Allergies
An asthma reaction involves the production of a specific type of antibody known as IgE. IgE antibodies are produced by the immune cells in the body in response to a particular allergen. These antibodies have memory and upon presentation with the allergen again, the body responds with more aggressive inflammation. This is similar to an allergic response, which is why asthma is classified as an allergic disease.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, known as GERD, is a serious form of acid reflux. GERD is caused by the ring of muscle in the lower esophagus, known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), relaxing and allowing stomach acid to rise into the esophagus. The symptoms of GERD, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, are similar to asthma including chronic dry cough and chest pain and tightness.
Respiratory Synctial Virus
Respiratory syncytial virus, often referred to as RSV, is a virus that infects the respiratory tract including the lungs. The virus may cause a mild illness similar to a cold causing mild congestion, runny nose, low-grade fever and sore throat. Others, especially babies and older adults, may have a more severe illness that can result in pneumonia or bronchiolitis. This more severe form of RSV is similar to asthma because it causes wheezing, severe cough and difficulty breathing. The breathing problems can lead to a lack of oxygen that is apparent by a bluish color of the skin.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis, the chronic inflammation of the mucous membranes in the sinuses, is closely related with both asthma and allergies. Sinusitis causes symptoms such as nasal congestion and a chronic cough. Sinusitis and asthma may occur together, as both can be caused by the same triggers. The presence of sinusitis may worsen the symptoms of asthma as reported by Dr. Wellington Tichenor at Sinuses.com.
Vocal Cord Dysfunction
Vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) is an episodic condition, according to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology that is often misdiagnosed as asthma. VCD occurs when the two vocal cords stick together causing a sudden closure of the larynx. This causes breathing difficulties, wheezing and difficulty talking. Like asthma, VCD often occurs during vigorous exercise when breathing is labored.
