Asthma & COPD

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes the airways to become swollen, narrow, and overly sensitive to certain triggers. When exposed to allergens, exercise, cold air, smoke, respiratory infections, or other irritants, the muscles surrounding the airways tighten, making breathing more difficult.

Asthma symptoms often vary in severity and may come and go over time. While asthma cannot be cured, it can usually be managed successfully with appropriate treatment and ongoing monitoring, allowing many patients to lead active, healthy lives.

What is COPD?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease that gradually limits airflow and makes breathing increasingly difficult. COPD most commonly develops after years of cigarette smoking, although long-term exposure to secondhand smoke, environmental pollutants, dust, or workplace chemicals can also contribute.

COPD typically includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or a combination of both conditions. Although lung damage from COPD cannot be reversed, early diagnosis and effective treatment can slow disease progression, reduce symptom flare-ups, and improve overall quality of life.

What symptoms do asthma and COPD cause?

Although asthma and COPD share many symptoms, each condition affects patients differently. Common symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Chronic coughing
• Chest tightness
• Increased mucus production
• Difficulty exercising
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Fatigue caused by poor oxygen exchange
• Nighttime coughing or breathing difficulties that interrupt sleep

Symptoms may worsen during physical activity, respiratory illnesses, seasonal allergies, or exposure to smoke and environmental irritants. Individuals who frequently wake up coughing or gasping for air may also have an underlying sleep disorder contributing to their symptoms.

How are asthma and COPD treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, lung function, and each patient's overall health. Dr. Espinoza can create a personalized treatment plan that may include inhaled bronchodilators to open the airways, inhaled corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, combination inhalers, oral medications when appropriate, pulmonary rehabilitation, and lifestyle modifications such as smoking cessation and avoiding respiratory triggers.

Because asthma and COPD often affect sleep quality, a comprehensive sleep evaluation may also be recommended. If obstructive sleep apnea or another sleep-related breathing disorder is present, treatment can improve nighttime breathing, increase energy levels, and support better long-term respiratory health.

Dr. Espinoza also educates patients on recognizing symptom flare-ups, properly using inhalers, and developing strategies to prevent future exacerbations.

Living with asthma or COPD does not have to mean living with constant breathing difficulties or poor sleep. Through compassionate, individualized care, patients can receive the evaluation, treatment, and ongoing support needed to better manage chronic lung disease, improve sleep quality, and enjoy healthier, more active lives.

To get treated for asthma or COPD, call RestoraMed Healthcare or request an appointment online today.