Below, you’ll find must-know information about eosinophilic asthma.
Eosinophilic asthma is a subtype of asthma that is characterized by high levels of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in the airways.
This type of asthma is thought to be caused by an overactive immune response to allergens and is often associated with allergies such as hay fever.
It tends to be more severe and less responsive to traditional asthma treatments such as inhaled corticosteroids. It is more likely to be associated with allergies and other conditions such as eczema or sinusitis.
Eosinophilic asthma is characterized by persistent airway inflammation, which can lead to more severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing and chest tightness.
It is usually treated with medications that target eosinophils or other immune cells, as well as other treatments such as allergen avoidance or immunomodulatory therapy.
Eosinophilic asthma is also associated with a higher rate of exacerbation and hospitalization. It is more common in children and young adults.
They may have more severe symptoms and a poorer response to traditional asthma treatments.
People with allergies are also more prone to eosinophilic asthma. This particular type of asthma is often associated with allergies, particularly allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and eczema.
People with certain genetic factors are also at risk. Some studies have suggested that certain genetic factors may increase the risk of developing eosinophilic asthma.
Eosinophilic asthma is more common in people who do not respond well to traditional asthma treatments such as inhaled corticosteroids. Smoking can also increase the risk of developing eosinophilic asthma.
If left untreated, eosinophilic asthma can lead to more severe symptoms and an increased risk of exacerbations, hospitalization, and even death.
Recognizing the symptoms of eosinophilic asthma can help ensure that people receive the appropriate treatment as soon as possible.
Below are eosinophilic asthma symptoms worth knowing.
11. Wheezing
Wheezing in eosinophilic asthma is caused by inflammation and narrowing of the airways.
The overproduction of eosinophils in the airways leads to inflammation and the release of various chemicals that can cause the airways to become narrowed and swollen. This narrowing of the airways makes it harder to breathe and can cause wheezing, especially when inhaling.
10. Shortness Of Breath
The narrowing of the airways makes it harder for air to move in and out of the lungs, which can cause shortness of breath.
Shortness of breath can be caused by the inflammation that occurs in eosinophilic asthma. Inflammation causes the airways to become narrowed and swollen, which can make it harder to breathe
9. Chest Tightness
The inflammation in eosinophilic asthma causes the airways to become constricted, which can make it harder to breathe and can cause chest tightness.
Inflammation can also cause the airways to produce more mucus than usual, which can further narrow the airways and make it harder to breathe. The accumulation of mucus in the airways can also make it harder to clear secretions, which can cause chest tightness.
8. Difficulty Breathing
Difficulty in breathing can be caused by an overactive immune response to certain triggers, such as allergens. This overactive immune response leads to inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which can make it difficult to breathe.
The airways become narrowed and inflamed, making it harder to breathe. The inflammation also causes the airways to produce more mucus, which can further clog the airways and make breathing even more difficult.
7. Coughing
Coughing, especially at night or early in the morning, is a common symptom of eosinophilic asthma. It is caused by inflammation and narrowing of the airways.
When the airways become inflamed, they produce more mucus, which can clog the airways and trigger a cough reflex. The increased mucus production and the narrowing of the airways also make it harder for the person to clear the mucus from their lungs, which can further contribute to the coughing.
Furthermore, the high levels of eosinophils in the airways can cause them to become irritated and swollen, leading to a chronic cough.
6. Trouble Sleeping
Since inflammation causes the individual to experience difficulty in breathing, he or she will it difficult to fall asleep or to stay asleep. Other symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing can also make it difficult for the individual to fall asleep.
Furthermore, some asthma medications can cause insomnia and people with eosinophilic asthma may also experience anxiety or depression, which can worsen insomnia.
5. Fatigue
There are several other factors that can contribute to fatigue. Difficulty breathing and the use of certain medications can make it harder to perform daily activities and lead to feelings of exhaustion.
Poor sleep and anemia can also cause fatigue. Additionally, living with a chronic condition like asthma can be stressful, and this stress and anxiety can contribute to fatigue.
4. Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyps
Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the sinuses and nasal passages. In eosinophilic asthma, CRSwNP is thought to be caused by a combination of factors.
The airway inflammation and the presence of eosinophils in the airways, the high rate of allergic rhinitis, and even a genetic component are some of the factors that can contribute to the development of CRSwNP in people with eosinophilic asthma.
3. Inflamed Nasal Mucous Membrane
In eosinophilic asthma, there is a higher level of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) present in the airways. These eosinophils can lead to inflammation in the nasal passages, as well as in other parts of the respiratory system.
The inflammation can cause the mucous membrane that lines the nasal passages to become swollen and irritated, leading to symptoms such as congestion, runny nose, and difficulty breathing.
This inflammation can also cause the nose to produce more mucus than normal, which can further contribute to congestion.
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