Asthma and sinusitis: Double trouble

June 21st, 2017

Sinusitis is the inflammation of the tissue in the sinuses, leading to discomfort, discharge, and difficulty breathing, among other symptoms. It can be caused by a virus, bacteria, or other conditions.

Asthma is characterized by inflammation of airways in the lungs. It causes shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, and coughing.^[1] It may be caused by allergies, exposure to dust, fumes or other irritants, or other medical conditions.^[2]

Since the sinuses and lung airways are connected, it may seem intuitive that problems with one might affect the other. And they do. This link between sinusitis and asthma has been confirmed by many studies.^[3] The medical community has come to refer to this link as the “Unified Airway”.

These studies examined various facets of the relationship between the conditions, including how surgery for sinusitis sometimes improves asthma symptoms as well.

Sinusitis treatment: Beneficial against asthma as well?

Asthma and sinusitis both carry potentially significant consequences for the sufferer’s quality of life. Many people who have one condition also have the other, and some medical professionals think they result from the same disease process. Treating inflammation of the sinus passages may help alleviate asthma in patients suffering from both conditions.^[4] However, as with any condition, asthma sufferers should consult with their doctors to fully assess whether they are good candidates for advanced treatment. The good news is that the medical field is mounting an ongoing effort to help patients combat the double threat of sinusitis and asthma.