Comorbid conditions #11

   Asthma is an inflammatory conditions that can be affected by other medical conditions. Aside from allergies which is often a trigger in many asthmatics, conditions that have been associated with asthma may include the following:

• GERD (gastroesophegeal reflux) can be associated with asthmatics whose symptoms are predominantly at night. Patients who complain of frequent heartburn should especially be investigated. Some helpful tips include avoiding heavy meals, fried foods, alcohol and caffeine. It is especially helpful to avoid food or drink within 3 hours of retiring. The common practice of raising the head of the bed about 6 inches can also be helpful. If medications are necessary, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) should be considered.
• Obese or overweight  patients with asthma should be counselled on losing weight. This may also improve their asthma control
• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) may be considered in patients whose asthma is not well controlled. This is especially important to consider in obese or overweight patients
• Rhinitis or sinusitis should be also be ruled out since the upper and lower airway relationship has shown to be important in the treatment of asthma. This may include intranasal corticosteroids and antibiotics.
• Stress and depression should be evaluated in those patients whose asthma is not well controlled. Self-management and coping skills should be emphasized and may be helpful.