What is a major difference between asthma and bronchitis?

Asthma and bronchitis are both respiratory conditions, but they have distinct characteristics. The major difference highlighted in the correct choice is that asthma has various triggers, which can include allergens, irritants, exercise, cold air, and stress. Asthma is characterized by hyperreactive airways, where these triggers can lead to bronchoconstriction, inflammation, and increased mucus production.

On the other hand, bronchitis often results from inflammation of the bronchial tubes and can be categorized primarily into acute and chronic types. Acute bronchitis is commonly associated with viral infections, while chronic bronchitis, a subset of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is often linked to long-term irritants such as cigarette smoke. However, bacteria can also play a role, especially in chronic bronchitis.

The recognition that asthma can be triggered by multiple different factors, while bronchitis tends to be more consistently linked to specific types of infections and irritant exposure, is a critical distinction between the two conditions. Understanding these triggers helps in managing and treating the respective conditions effectively.