If you have asthma, there is a good chance that you also suffer from some type of sinus problems, as well. It makes sense, as the nasal passages carry air to the lungs, meaning that what goes on in the sinuses can have an effect on the lungs. When you add asthma to the mix, the lungs are more susceptible to the effects.
It is estimated that as much as thirty percent of people with chronic sinusitis also suffer from asthma, and the vast majority of asthma patients have ongoing sinus related problems.
Because asthma is not curable, it is very important to pay attention to your sinuses, and have an evaluation done by an ENT specialist if you have difficulty breathing through your nose, chronic sinus infections or sinusitis.
While the experts do not quite agree on why the two are linked, numerous studies have been done that support the fact that treating your underlying sinus conditions can help improve the symptoms of asthma.
By Ramie A Tritt, MD, President, Atlanta ENT
