Asthma Complexities (cont.)
Sinusitis and asthma
Over the years, physicians have noted an association between asthma and
sinusitis. In fact, 15% of patients with sinusitis also have asthma (as opposed
to 5% of the normal population). An astounding 75% of severely asthmatic
patients also have sinusitis. Additionally, asthmatic patients often report that
their symptoms worsen when they develop sinusitis. Conversely, when the
sinusitis is treated, the asthma improves.
The reasons behind the association of asthma and sinusitis are similar to
those suggested for the association between asthma and allergic rhinitis.
- The infected mucus from the sinuses may drain into
the bronchial tubes, thereby causing bronchitis (sinobronchitis). The
inflammation caused by the mucus may worsen asthma.
- The best evidence to date seems to support the idea of neural reflexes
in the linings of the nose, sinuses, and airways. Sinusitis may activate a
"sinobronchial reflex" and worsen asthma.
Greater insight into how these two conditions are related may allow better
control or even cure of these common conditions.
Air pollution
Poor air quality is known to worsen asthma symptoms and increase
exacerbations. Diesel emissions are associated with asthma and increased
symptoms. Living closer to freeways may result in more frequent exacerbations.
Patients with asthma are at increased risk for symptoms when smog, soot, or
ozone levels are significantly elevated. Children with smaller body size and
developing lungs are at increased risk for breathing problems. Indoor air
pollution may also be a contributing factor. In the third world, indoor fires
used for cooking are often associated with respiratory illness. In the
industrialized world, formaldehyde, tobacco smoke, dust mites, and other
particles can worsen asthma.
Air filters are suggested by some to help minimize their effects on asthmatic
patients. Research studies would suggest that maintaining adequate ventilation
and modifying the household (removing carpets and drapes, using hypoallergenic
mattress covers) may be enough. Some air-filtration systems may reduce some
secondhand tobacco smoke, but no system can remove all the harmful components
from this smoke. There are no standards for air filtration approved by the Food
and Drug Administration (FDA). It does rate some portable air-filtration systems
as Class II medical devices, indicating safety and medical benefit. If one of the
devices is being considered for personal use, it is important to check that the
device has this Class II approval. There are several different types of air
filters. Mechanical filters force air through a mesh trapping particles. HEPA
(high efficiency particulate air) are mechanical filters that capture at least
99.97% of all particles 0.3 microns or larger. Electronic filters use electrical
charges to attract and deposit allergens and irritants on collecting plates.
There are also hybrid systems that contain both mechanical and electronic
filters. All of these can produce some ozone but usually at acceptable levels.
Gas phase filters can remove odors and gasses such as cooking gas, fumes from
paints and building materials, and perfume. They do not remove any allergenic
particles. Ozone generators are ozone producers. This gives the "smell of clean
air." Unfortunately, the ozone levels produced are often higher than acceptable
levels. These devices are not recommended.
Next: Food allergy »
- albuterol, Ventolin, Proventil, AccuNeb, Vospire, ProAir - Specifies the medication albuterol (Ventolin, Proventil, AccuNeb, Vospire, ProAir) a drug used in for the treatment of asthma, emphysema, anc chronic broncitis. Albuterol relieves and prevents of airway obstruction (bronchospasm) in patients with asthma and in patients with exercise-induced asthma. Article includes descriptions, uses, drug interactions, and side effects.
- Chest X-ray - A chest x-ray is a radiology test that involves exposing the chest briefly to radiation to produce an image of the chest and the internal organs of the chest. chest x-ray can be used to define abnormalities of the lungs such as excessive fluid, pneumonia, bronchitis, asthma, cysts, and cancers.
- Sinus Infection - Learn about sinus infections and inflammation of the sinuses (also known as sinusitis) with information written by doctors for patients. Includes causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and complications of sinus infection.
Latest Medical News
Asthma RSS