Chronic Respiratory Diseases

Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) are diseases of the airways and other structures of the lung. Some of the most common are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, occupational lung diseases and pulmonary hypertension. In addition to tobacco smoke, other risk factors include air pollution, occupational chemicals and dusts, and frequent lower respiratory infections during childhood. CRDs are not curable, however, various forms of treatment that help dilate major air passages and improve shortness of breath can help control symptoms and increase the quality of life for people with the disease.
Treatments for each chronic respiratory disease vary and the ideal solution is the reduction and avoidance of risk factors. Neither asthma nor chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can be cured but treatments can reduce symptoms, prevent escalation and improve quality of life. Appropriate management of asthma through medications like inhaled corticosteroids can control the progression of the disease and reduce deaths. Daily, long-term medication is required for people with persistent symptoms and triggering settings should be avoided.