Asthma & COPD

Overview

Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are two of the most common respiratory challenges faced by families across India today. While asthma is often a long-term condition starting in childhood that causes your airways to swell and narrow, COPD is frequently associated with long-term exposure to irritants like smoke or pollutants, leading to damaged air sacs in the lungs. In India, the high levels of dust, seasonal changes, and traditional cooking smoke (chulhas) can often worsen these conditions. At Sanjeevi Hospital in Sangareddy, we understand that struggling to catch your breath can be frightening and exhausting. These conditions are not just about a 'bad cough'; they affect your quality of life, your sleep, and your ability to work. The good news is that with modern inhalers, lifestyle adjustments, and expert guidance from our General Medicine team, most patients can lead active, normal lives. We focus on controlling inflammation and easing your breathing so you can focus on your family and your health without constant worry.

Symptoms to watch for

• Frequent coughing, especially at night or early in the morning
• A whistling or wheezing sound when you breathe out
• Feeling short of breath or like you cannot get enough air
• Tightness or pressure in the chest area
• Feeling easily tired during simple activities like walking or climbing stairs
• Increased production of mucus or phlegm that is hard to clear
• Difficulty sleeping because of coughing or breathing issues
• A persistent cough that lasts for more than three weeks
• Symptoms that get worse with cold weather or during the pollen season

Causes & risk factors

• Exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution and dust
• History of long-term tobacco smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
• Genetic factors or a family history of allergies and respiratory issues
• Frequent respiratory infections during early childhood
• Exposure to chemical fumes or workplace dust (industrial exposure)
• Household smoke from biomass fuels used for cooking and heating
• Strong allergens like pollen, pet dander, or dust mites
• Changes in weather and inhalation of cold, dry air

Diagnosis

• Spirometry test to measure how much and how fast you can blow air out
• Peak Flow Meter tests to monitor lung function at home
• Chest X-ray to rule out other lung infections or heart problems
• Pulse Oximetry to check the oxygen levels in your blood
• Allergy testing to identify specific triggers for asthma flares
• Physical examination and detailed review of your breathing history
• CT Scan of the lungs for a more detailed view in chronic COPD cases

Treatment options

Prevention & self-care

• Identify and avoid your personal triggers like dust, smoke, or specific smells
• Quit smoking completely and avoid all areas where people are smoking
• Use a mask while traveling in heavy traffic or dusty environments
• Keep your home well-ventilated, especially while cooking with gas or wood
• Practice deep breathing exercises as taught by our clinical staff
• Clean your bedding weekly in hot water to remove dust mites
• Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy weight to reduce the load on your lungs
• Attend all follow-up appointments even if you are feeling well