Disease Comparison

Compare similarities and differences between two diseases.

Intestinal Obstruction

Unknown
3
Symptoms
1
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
VS

Asthma

Moderate
4
Symptoms
3
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs

Overview

Intestinal Obstruction
Intestinal obstruction occurs when food, fluid or digestive contents cannot move normally through the intestine. The blockage may be partial or complete and can occur in the small or large intestine. It may cause abdominal pain or cramping, swelling, vomiting, constipation and inability to pass gas. A complete obstruction can become a medical emergency because it may damage the intestine.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic condition in which the airways become inflamed and can narrow or become more sensitive to triggers. This may cause repeated episodes of wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. Symptoms can vary over time and may become worse during an asthma attack. Asthma can begin in childhood or adulthood and affects people of all ages.

Symptoms

Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
Blood In Vomit Constipation Lower Abdominal Pain
Only in Right Disease
Chest Pain Chest Tightness Coughing Blood Dry Cough

Causes

Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
Inflammation
Only in Right Disease
Genetics Hormonal Imbalance Stress

Diagnosis

Intestinal Obstruction
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, physical examination and imaging. Healthcare professionals may listen for changes in bowel sounds and examine the abdomen for swelling or tenderness. Abdominal X-rays, CT scans or other imaging tests can help identify the location and cause of a blockage. Blood tests may be used to assess dehydration, infection or other complications.
Asthma
Asthma is diagnosed using the pattern of symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and lung function testing. Spirometry can assess how much air a person can breathe out and how quickly it moves through the airways. Additional testing may be used when the diagnosis is uncertain or to identify allergic or other triggers. Symptoms and lung function are considered together.

Prevention

Intestinal Obstruction
Not all intestinal obstructions can be prevented. Reducing the risk involves managing conditions that can cause blockage, following medical advice after abdominal surgery and seeking treatment for hernias or other structural problems when recommended. People with inflammatory bowel disease should follow their treatment plan. Prompt medical attention for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting or inability to pass stool or gas can help prevent complications.
Asthma
Asthma cannot always be prevented, but attacks can often be reduced by identifying and avoiding personal triggers and following an individualized treatment plan. Avoiding tobacco smoke, reducing exposure to known allergens or irritants, managing respiratory infections, and taking prescribed medicines as directed can help control symptoms. Regular follow-up is important when symptoms are persistent or changing.

Risk Factors

Intestinal Obstruction
Risk factors include previous abdominal or pelvic surgery, hernias, abdominal or intestinal tumors, inflammatory bowel disease and conditions that can cause abnormal intestinal movement. Older adults may have a higher risk of some forms of obstruction. A history of previous intestinal obstruction also increases the chance of recurrence. Risk varies according to the underlying cause.
Asthma
Risk factors include a family history of asthma, allergies, exposure to tobacco smoke, certain workplace chemicals or dusts, repeated viral respiratory infections during childhood, and obesity. The likelihood of asthma may also be influenced by environmental conditions and individual sensitivity to allergens or irritants. Risk factors and triggers differ between people.

Treatment

Intestinal Obstruction
Treatment comparison will be available soon.
Asthma
Treatment comparison will be available soon.