A proposed scheme to cope with comorbidities in asthma

Publication date: Available online 25 August 2018Source: Pulmonary Pharmacology & TherapeuticsAuthor(s): Luane Marques de Mello, Álvaro A. CruzAbstractThe prevalence of non-communicable chronic diseases has been on the rise and the co-occurrence of morbidities is becoming more common. Multimorbidities are found more frequently among women, those with a history of mental disorders, lower level of schooling, and unfavorable socioeconomic condition. Physical inactivity, smoking and obesity are also associated with multimorbidities. Its occurrence is directly related to the age, affecting the majority of the individuals with more than 50 years. It is important to consider the possibility of comorbid conditions that aggravate, complicate or simulate the symptoms of the disease in the face of a patient with asthma and poor response to treatment. Among subjects with asthma, some conditions stand out as the most frequent: chronic rhinitis or rhinosinusitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, obesity, and cardiovascular disorders. Comorbidities reduce the chances of optimal asthma control. It is essential to assess and manage properly these complex situations, choosing wisely preventive strategies and treatment options to avoid adverse events and optimize outcomes. Medications for asthma have the potential to worsen cardiovascular conditions, while beta-adrenergic receptor blockers and angiotensin conversion enzyme inhibitors used for cardiovascular co...
Source: Pulmonary Pharmacology and Therapeutics - Category: Respiratory Medicine Source Type: research