Hien had underlying conditions including hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. She had previously attempted to treat her shortness of breath and wheezing with self-administered medication, but with little improvement.

Doctor Nguyen Minh Thuan, Specialist I, from the Respiratory Unit, General Internal Medicine Department, Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM, diagnosed the patient with an acute exacerbation of asthma-copd overlap syndrome (ACO) along with pneumonia.

Asthma-copd overlap syndrome (ACO) is a condition where a patient exhibits characteristics of both bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). During an acute exacerbation, symptoms such as coughing, phlegm production, wheezing, and shortness of breath often become pronounced. Treatment for ACO exacerbations is more complex, requiring control of both airway inflammation and chronic obstruction.

Hien received treatment including antibiotics, corticosteroids, nebulized bronchodilators, and medications to manage her underlying conditions. After 5 days of treatment, her shortness of breath resolved, her respiratory function improved significantly, and she was discharged.

Doctor Thuan advises the patient during a follow-up visit. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Thuan advises the patient during a follow-up visit. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Thuan advises patients with ACO to adhere to long-term treatment and not to arbitrarily stop or reduce medication even if symptoms improve. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial for evaluating respiratory function, adjusting treatment plans, and preventing acute exacerbations. Patients should seek medical attention at a hospital with a respiratory specialist if they experience worsening cough, increased phlegm, wheezing, or progressively severe shortness of breath.

Nhat Thanh

*Patient's name has been changed