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1. Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever): Generally referred to as “nasal allergies,” allergic rhinitis is a common companion of asthma. Both conditions have similar underlying inflammatory pathways and environmental triggers, like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. Managing allergic rhinitis alongside asthma is necessary for comprehensive symptom control.
2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Although asthma and COPD are distinct diseases, but they can overlap, especially in older adults with long-standing asthma. COPD is characterised by progressive airflow limitation, generally stemming from smoking or exposure to lung irritants. Coexisting asthma and COPD, known as asthma-COPD overlap syndrome (ACOS), poses unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment.
3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):Asthma and GERD generally occur together, with reflux triggering asthma symptoms or exacerbating existing asthma. Acid reflux from the stomach can irritate the airways, resulting in bronchoconstriction and coughing. Managing GERD through lifestyle modifications and medications can significantly help in improving asthma control.
4. Obesity: Obesity is a well-established risk factor for asthma, as excess body weight can contribute to inflammation and mechanical compression of the airways. Asthma is more severe and difficult to control in people with obesity. Weight management strategies, like diet and exercise, are essential components of asthma care for these kind of people.
5. Sinusitis: Chronic sinusitis, inflammation of the sinuses lasting for at least 12 weeks, commonly coexists with asthma. Sinusitis shares similar inflammatory mechanisms with asthma, and sinus infections can worsen asthma symptoms. Treating sinusitis with medications or, in severe cases, surgery, can help in improving asthma control.
6. Sleep apnea: Asthma and sleep apnea share a bidirectional relationship. Sleep apnea is a disorder that is characterised by pauses in breathing during sleep. Asthma can deteriorate sleep quality and exacerbate sleep apnea symptoms, while sleep apnea can trigger nocturnal asthma attacks. Identifying and treating sleep apnea is necessary for optimizing asthma management and overall health.
7. Anxiety and depression: Asthma is linked with a higher prevalence of anxiety and depression, which can negatively affect treatment adherence and disease outcomes. Psychological stress can also worsen asthma symptoms through neuroendocrine pathways. Integrating mental health support into asthma care is crucial for addressing these comorbidities and improving overall well-being.
World Asthma Day-Why asthma cases are on a surge and what we need to do?
In a nutshell, it’s very rare that asthma exists solely. It often coexists with various other diseases that can complicate management and worsen outcomes. Identifying and addressing these comorbidities is important for comprehensive asthma care, emphasising the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. On World Asthma Day, it’s crucial to raise awareness not only about asthma but also about its association with other health conditions, striving for better health outcomes and quality of life for people living with asthma.
(Author: Dr. Arun Kotaru, Consultant, Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine at Artemis Hospital Gurugram)
