Which two categories do respiratory diseases generally fall into?

Respiratory diseases are typically categorized into obstructive and restrictive disorders based on how they affect airflow and lung function. Obstructive disorders, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are characterized by airflow obstruction, making it difficult for a person to exhale air from the lungs. This can lead to symptoms like shortness of breath and wheezing. In contrast, restrictive disorders, such as pulmonary fibrosis and sarcoidosis, involve a decrease in lung volume, resulting in reduced inhalation capacity. Patients with restrictive diseases may have difficulty taking deep breaths, leading to lower oxygen levels in the blood.

The classification into obstructive and restrictive is fundamental because it influences treatment approaches and management strategies. Understanding whether a respiratory disease is obstructive or restrictive can guide clinicians in choosing appropriate interventions, such as bronchodilators for obstructive conditions or corticosteroids for inflammation in restrictive ones. This clear categorization highlights the functional differences in lung mechanics associated with these types of diseases.