Many chronic and long-term illnesses come with increased risks of developing related conditions. In turn, this may create a kind of a feedback loop, where the newly developed condition leads to exacerbation of symptoms of the underlying one. In this article, we will explore the conditions that are most commonly associated with asthma, while paying special attention to the precautions and preventive techniques that can help you mitigate the potential risks.

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Atopic dermatitis (eczema) and asthma – a possible genetic link?

Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a skin condition marked by dry, itchy or red patches on skin that can appear on any part of the body. Similarly to asthma, dermatitis tends to be triggered by the presence of different allergen substances. It is also a long-term condition and is usually diagnosed early, during childhood years.

Both asthma and eczema are conditions that tend to be hereditary in a significant percentage of people affected. And while there is no consensus in the medical community that would suggest that one condition leads to the other, statistical research has shown that people diagnosed with eczema in childhood do have somewhat increased chances of developing asthma later on in life.

However, eczema is relatively easily managed in the modern day and there are numerous treatments available. If you’re also taking asthma treatment at the same time, you should talk to your doctor about the optimal choice of medication and advices on using multiple treatments at the same time.

Does asthma cause acid reflux (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease)?

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), better known as heartburn or acid reflux, is a condition affecting the digestive tract. It is marked by the tell-tale rising of stomach acid up into the oesophagus. Statistical research conducted by Asthma UK seems to indicate that asthmatics are twice as likely to develop this condition as opposed to otherwise healthy individuals.

Similarly to these results, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology has put forward a hypothesis that the cause of this relation is the fact that asthma symptoms can lead to excessive relaxation of the valve in the lower oesophagus. This, in turn, results in stomach acid rising up.

Patients diagnosed with both conditions, GORD and asthma will usually have to manage effectively both conditions while trying to limit the symptoms as much as possible. Usually, this will lead to parallel use of different treatments, with the details varying depending on the severity of each condition.

Osteoporosis and asthma

The array of symptoms characteristic of asthma involves inflammation in the airways and lungs – both of which are effectively treated by inhaled corticosteroids. However, these pharmaceutical compounds come with their own risk of side effects, just like all other prescription medicines.

Studies have shown that prolonged use of corticosteroids can cause a decrease in bone density, leading to osteoporosis in a small percentage of patients. This condition, usually called steroid-induced osteoporosis, occurs in especially susceptible individuals. Long-term use and high daily dose of corticosteroids are the factors that are usually singled out as the most important risk factors when it comes to this condition.

However, those people who might find themselves in the higher risk group can try and mitigate these unwanted side effects of corticosteroid treatment. In order to control the potential damage and identify the early onset of the condition, one can request a bone density scan (DEXA scan). In addition, taking supplements with calcium and vitamin D are the usual precautions recommended by doctors that have been shown to reduce the unwanted effects.

Influenza and common cold

The link between asthma and cold or influenza virus is well-known. While there is no causal relation between the two, cold and flu viruses can significantly increase the risk of an asthma attack by inflaming the respiratory tract. In asthmatics who already have rather sensitive airways, this can be a very serious complication.

Although it is impossible to be fully protected from cold and flu viruses, you should always try to take precautions and avoid your triggers that will minimise the chances of getting infected. This even more important for asthmatics who should do their best to avoid additional risks that could exacerbate their asthma symptoms. Here are some things that you can do:

  • Ensure the efficiency of your immune system – healthy practices here include eating a healthy, varied and well-balanced diet, exercising regularly and ensuring stable sleep patterns
  • Keep clean – it might sound like a lousy advice, but research has shown that this simple, yet effective step can significantly reduce the chances of getting infected by cold or flu viruses
  • Vaccinate – be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about the influenza vaccination since when a new virus strain appears, getting ill can often be prevented by vaccination

Asthma is a chronic and long-term condition, marked by all complication and complexities that come with this type of health problems. It can make you more susceptible to other health problems, while other problems can, in turn, lead to worsening of your symptoms. This is why asthmatics need to be especially careful and try to keep their asthma under control as much as possible. With alternative treatment options, easy access to medical information through your doctor or one employed at an online clinic of your choice and modern asthma medications, today, it’s easier than ever to manage your asthma and stay healthy.