Asthma or Cold? What’s the Difference?

It’s officially flu season and everyone is taking the necessary precautions to avoid getting sick. For those that have asthma, the cold weather and catching the flu can worsen or trigger asthma symptoms. This is why you have to take the necessary precautions to avoid getting sick, as well as learn to tell the difference between a cold and asthma symptoms.

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Even though it may seem like people who have asthma and a cold sound the same, there is a difference  where the problem starts. With asthma you are dealing with the lower airways inside your lungs and with a cold you are dealing with the upper airways. With asthma, the lower airways inside your lungs are called bronchial tubes and these are inflamed, which is why you get asthma attacks. When you get a cold, it mainly affects your nose and throat.

Symptoms of Asthma

• Constant coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Tightness in the chest

Symptoms of a Cold

• Throat hurts
• Watery nose
• Sneezing
• Tired
• Cough
• Fever

It’s very easy to catch a cold if you don’t take the necessary precautions. For example, something as simple as running outside without a jacket or with wet hair can get you sick. Also, good hygiene can decrease viral infections, such as colds. Wash your hands regularly and make sure others around you have good hygiene as well. People with asthma should also protect themselves and get a flu vaccine as soon as they can to prevent catching a virus. As a rule of thumb, people with asthma should eliminate factors that contribute to a asthma attacks, such as smoke, allergens, cold air and chemicals.

NEXT: 14 Self-Care Tips For Asthma Relief