DIAGNOSING OBSTRUCTIVE LUNG-DISEASE - WHY IS DIFFERENTIATING COPD FROM ASTHMA IMPORTANT

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are the main c auses of obstructive lung disease, and mortality rates of both disease s are on the increase. Smoking is the major risk factor for COPD. Airw ay hyperreactivity and reversibility of air-flow obstruction, once con sidered hallmarks of asthma, may also be seen in COPD. Asthma is incre asingly being recognized as a chronic inflammatory airway disease. COP D and asthma can be diagnosed through careful history taking, physical examination, spirometry, and other ancillary tests. More widespread u se of peak expiratory flow rates should aid in diagnosis and monitorin g.