COPD or COVID? How to Tell the Difference This Monsoon

During the monsoon, respiratory illnesses see a sharp rise, and so does the confusion between COPD and COVID-19, as both present similar symptoms like cough, breathlessness, and fatigue. Misreading these signs can delay treatment or worsen your condition. This blog helps you understand the key differences between COVID vs COPD symptoms, highlights when to see a lung specialist, and guides you on accurate diagnosis and care at Aadicura Superspeciality Hospital. Learn about COPD therapies, COVID testing options, and preventive measures to protect your lungs this season.

Why the Confusion?

As the skies darken and humidity rises, so does the risk of respiratory illnesses. The monsoon season brings a perfect storm for lung-related issues, especially in patients with chronic respiratory conditions like COPD. But with COVID-19 still circulating, many wonder: Is this breathlessness due to COPD, or is it COVID?

The confusion is real. Both conditions share overlapping symptoms such as cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Timely and correct diagnosis is crucial to ensure appropriate treatment, protect loved ones, and manage health proactively. So, how do you tell the difference?

Let’s break it down.

What is COPD?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a long-term lung condition that gradually reduces airflow, making it harder to breathe. It includes two main components: chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

What causes it?

• Prolonged smoking.
• Long-term exposure to air pollution or industrial dust.
• Natural age-related lung damage.

Why is the monsoon challenging for COPD patients?

The high humidity during monsoon makes the air heavier and more difficult to breathe. Mould spores, dust mites, and other allergens also increase, triggering airway inflammation. These conditions often lead to frequent flare-ups, requiring adjustments in inhalers, nebulization, or other COPD therapies.

If you’re experiencing worsening symptoms during the rains, it’s time to consult a lung specialist before complications set in.

What is COVID-19 (Latest Strain)?

COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has evolved through various strains. While the latest variants may present with milder symptoms, they still affect the respiratory system and are highly contagious.

Key Characteristics:

• It is a viral infection that spreads rapidly through droplets.
• Affects both the respiratory and systemic systems.
• Requires isolation and confirmed diagnosis via COVID testing.

Symptom Comparison Table

Monsoon and Respiratory Health Risks

Monsoon triggers like moisture, poor air circulation, and airborne allergens increase inflammation and infection risk. For COPD patients, this means more hospital visits. For everyone else, it means higher chances of viral infections like COVID-19.

Unfortunately, early symptoms of all these conditions feel similar, leading to late testing or treatment. That’s why anyone with respiratory symptoms should consider COVID testing, especially if living with chronic lung disease.

When to See a Doctor?

Warning Signs in COPD Patients:

• Increased frequency of coughing or wheezing.
• SpO2 levels consistently below 94%.
• Trouble sleeping due to breathlessness.
• Chest tightness or persistent fatigue.

Warning Signs in COVID Patients:

• Sudden loss of smell or taste.
• Fever with chills or body aches.
• Rapid drop in oxygen levels.
• Sore throat and dry cough.

If you’re unsure, don’t delay. Visit a pulmonologist for a thorough evaluation.

Diagnosis at Aadicura Superspeciality Hospital

At Aadicura Superspeciality Hospital, patients can access a comprehensive diagnostic pathway for both COPD and COVID-19.

Diagnostic Tools Available:

• Pulmonology Consultation with leading lung specialists in Vadodara.
• COVID RT-PCR and Rapid Antigen Tests.
• Chest X-Ray and High-Resolution CT Scans.
• Spirometry to assess lung function.
• ICU and Isolation Units for patients needing critical care.

Early and accurate diagnosis is essential to prevent complications and start appropriate treatment without delay. At Aadicura, you have access to qualitative COVID testing in Vadodara to ensure reliable and timely results.

Treatment Approaches

COPD Therapies:

• Inhalers and nebulisers.
• Steroid medications, to reduce inflammation.
• Long-term oxygen therapy.
• Lifestyle changes (quitting smoking, diet).

COVID-19 Management:

• Antiviral medications and fever control.
• Monitoring of oxygen saturation.
• Lung physiotherapy, if required.
• Hospitalisation in moderate to severe cases.

Aadicura’s infection-safe respiratory OPD and advanced critical care infrastructure ensure high-quality treatment while minimising cross-infection risks.

Preventive Tips for This Monsoon

• Wear a mask, especially in crowded, humid areas.
• Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke, dust, and pollution.
• Get vaccinated for both COVID-19 and seasonal flu.
• Keep your inhalers/nebulisers handy and follow prescribed COPD therapies.
• Regular checkups with a trusted pulmonologist can help adjust medications and detect early signs of infection.

Don’t just guess, get yourself checked

Whether it’s a cough or breathlessness, guessing can be dangerous, especially during the monsoon. Both COPD and COVID-19 require different treatment paths, and a misdiagnosis could cost valuable time.

Book a consultation at Aadicura Superspeciality Hospital to meet one of the best lung specialists in Vadodara. Our experts will guide you through the diagnosis, testing, and treatment plan safely and efficiently.

FAQs

Q1. How can I know if my cough is due to COPD or COVID-19?
Check for accompanying symptoms: If it’s sudden and accompanied by fever, fatigue, or loss of taste/smell, get a COVID test. A long-term chronic cough could indicate COPD.

Q2. Can COVID-19 worsen COPD symptoms?
Yes. COVID-19 can cause severe complications in COPD patients and increase the risk of respiratory failure. Timely care is essential.

Q3. What should COPD patients do during the monsoon to stay safe?
Avoid damp environments, stay updated with vaccines, follow your medication plan, and avoid known triggers like smoke or pollution.

Q4. Is it safe to visit Aadicura Hospital during COVID times?
Absolutely. Aadicura maintains strict infection control protocols, has dedicated respiratory OPDs, and offers isolated wards for COVID-positive patients.

Q5. When should I get a COVID test if I have COPD symptoms?
If you experience sudden fever, fatigue, or worsening breathlessness, especially if exposed to a COVID-positive person, get tested immediately at Aadicura.