HEALTH MATTERS
fight infections. Too many can increase inflammation.
It's important to get an accurate diagnosis. Your healthcare provider will take a detailed history of your symptoms and perform a physical exam. Additional tests may include:
* Lung function tests. These can help diagnose or reveal the severity of asthma.
* Blood tests. These can help determine levels of IgE and eosinophils for both asthma and CRSwNP.
* Sinus CT scan. Images of your sinuses and nasal cavity can reveal the severity of CRSwNP.
* Nasal endoscopy. This involves a tiny camera inserted into your nasal passages to search for polyps.
* Allergy tests. These help identify allergies that could be triggering symptoms. (They are also used to diagnose allergic asthma.)
CRSwNP triggers often overlap with asthma triggers. They include allergens such as pollen, mold or pets. Nonallergic triggers include respiratory viruses, tobacco smoke, air pollution and cold, dry air.
How to treat asthma and CRSwNP together
Asthma and CRSwNP require different treatments. Medications are available. Working together with your doctor to manage both conditions gives you the best chance for relief and better breathing.
For asthma, it's essential to keep symptoms under control. Most people
use a daily controller inhaler with an inhaled corticosteroid. These medications can help reduce inflammation and keep the airways open. Quick-relief inhalers are also available for sudden asthma symptoms or attacks.
For CRSwNP, corticosteroid nasal sprays are the first-line treatment. They can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the nose. A short course of oral corticosteroids can shrink polyps and improve a stuffy nose, but long-term use can cause serious side effects. If medications aren't working, surgery to remove the polyps may be an option.