Croup vs. Asthma
Both asthma and croup can cause serious breathing difficulties and, if left untreated, lead to a dangerous situation. Although adults can suffer from both conditions, they are most common in children. Diagnosis by a medical professional is essential, as is understanding the differences between the two. The biggest difference: croup can be cured and asthma is a chronic condition that needs careful management.
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Asthma
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Asthma's trademark wheezing occurs when the lung's bronchial tubes become inflamed, constrict and cause extra mucus to form, blocking the airways. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath.
Asthma Causes
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Asthma affects each person differently. Most experts, however, believe that both genetic and environmental factors are to blame. Common environmental triggers include airborne allergens like dust, pollen, mold and animal dander; cold air; air pollutants like smoke and smog and physical activity.
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Asthma Treatment
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Because a person's asthma can change over time, regular doctor check-ups are needed. Treatment generally includes a mix of both long-term control and quick-relief rescue medications. The right medication depends on the patient's age and symptoms, although avoiding triggers is often the best treatment of all.
Croup
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Characterized by a loud, barking cough, croup is most common in children three months to five years old. It's not uncommon for some children to become prone to the condition and develop it several times. Symptoms are generally worse at night.
Croup causes
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Viral croup is the most common form, though it can also be triggered by bacteria, allergies or acid reflux. Whatever the form, the result is swelling around the vocal cords and tightened, blocked airways.
Croup treatment
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A cool-mist vaporizer often brings relief. Severe swelling may require steroids or other prescription medications. In rare cases, hospitalization is needed. Non-prescription cough medicines should only be used when recommended by a doctor.
Expert advice
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Any kind of severe or chronic cough, or breathing difficulty, requires medical attention.
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