Introduction:
When people think of asthma, they typically associate it with respiratory challenges and wheezing. However, recent research has revealed a hidden link between asthma and a lesser-known health concern: heart problems. Asthma has been found to have a significant impact on cardiovascular health. It is essential for individuals with asthma to be mindful of their heart health and for healthcare professionals to adopt a comprehensive approach to managing asthma and mitigating the potential cardiovascular risks. This article will emphasize the effects of asthma on heart health and uncover the link between asthma and high carotid plaque burden.
What Is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflamed and narrowed airways, leading to recurring episodes of breathing difficulty. Symptoms include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Asthma attacks are triggered by allergens, infections, exercise, and irritants. While there is no cure for asthma, it can be effectively managed with medications and lifestyle adjustments. Treatment aims to control symptoms and prevent attacks. With proper management, most people with asthma can lead active lives. In addition to its impact on the respiratory system, asthma has been linked with other diseases. Studies have revealed links between asthma and conditions such as allergies, eczema, sinusitis, sleep apnea, and heart diseases as well.
What Is Carotid Plaque?
Carotid plaque refers to the accumulation of fatty deposits, calcium, and other substances within the carotid arteries, which are located in the neck and supply blood to the brain. Carotid plaque is considered a marker of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to plaque buildup. Atherosclerosis is a major risk factor for cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.
Is Asthma Linked to High Carotid Plaque Burden?
Yes! Recent research suggests a link between persistent asthma and an increased burden of carotid plaque, which is associated with a higher risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) events. That research analyzed data from over 5,000 individuals and compared carotid plaque and inflammatory markers in those with and without asthma.
The findings revealed that carotid plaque was present in about 50 percent of participants without asthma or intermittent asthma but in nearly 70 percent of participants with persistent asthma. Additionally, it has been observed that individuals with persistent asthma have higher levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), a marker of inflammation, compared to those without asthma or with intermittent asthma.
Furthermore, it has been seen that persistent asthma is also associated with higher levels of inflammation and inflammatory biomarkers. This indicates that persistent asthma may contribute to cardiovascular disease risk. Furthermore, managing asthma effectively and addressing cardiovascular risk factors are important for individuals with asthma. Severe forms of asthma may pose a higher risk of cardiovascular problems, emphasizing the need to address modifiable risk factors in patients with asthma.
Is Asthma Linked to Heart Problems?
It has been seen that those who suffer from severe asthma may be at greater risk of having a problem with the heart's rhythm, known as atrial fibrillation. It has been found that individuals with persistent asthma, requiring daily medication, were more likely to be diagnosed with atrial fibrillation compared to those without asthma.
Both asthma and atrial fibrillation are associated with inflammation, and the research revealed that people with persistent asthma had higher levels of inflammation. However, even after considering inflammation markers, the link between asthma and atrial fibrillation remained significant. This suggests that there may be other factors at play beyond inflammation that connects asthma to an irregular heartbeat. There is a known association between asthma and atrial fibrillation, with individuals who have asthma being at a higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation compared to those without asthma.
Atrial fibrillation, a condition affecting millions of individuals, has been found to have a connection with asthma. It is associated with significant complications, such as heart failure and stroke. While the direct association between asthma and atrial fibrillation has not been established, it is suggested that both conditions may share a common origin in systemic inflammation. To minimize the risk of both asthma and atrial fibrillation, healthcare professionals should engage in conversations with their asthma patients about adopting heart-healthy habits. These habits encompass regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and adhering to a low-sodium diet. By incorporating these practices into their daily lives, individuals with asthma may potentially lower their chances of developing both asthma-related complications and atrial fibrillation.
Can Asthma Cause Heart Blockage?
Asthma is associated with an elevated risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular events. Active asthma can double the likelihood of experiencing a heart attack, stroke, or related condition. Over a 10-year period, taking daily asthma medication can increase the risk of cardiovascular events by 60 percent. Despite affecting different body systems, asthma, and heart disease have a significant connection. It is crucial to recognize that chest pain or discomfort, often attributed to asthma symptoms, could actually indicate a heart attack. People with asthma, particularly those with active symptoms or recent medication use, have a higher chance of suffering from heart attacks. The presence of chronic inflammation, which occurs in both asthma and heart disease, may contribute to this increased risk. Healthcare professionals should address cardiovascular risks in asthma patients and emphasize the importance of controlling modifiable factors.
Conclusion:
The groundbreaking discoveries emphasize the intricate relationship between asthma and heart problems. The implications urge individuals with asthma to be mindful of their heart health and physicians to adopt a comprehensive approach to managing asthma and mitigating associated cardiovascular risks. The discovery of a strong association between asthma and heart-related conditions offers a fresh perspective on managing this common respiratory illness. In addition to its impact on breathing, asthma increases the risk of carotid plaque burden and atrial fibrillation. These findings emphasize the importance of healthcare professionals addressing cardiovascular risk factors in individuals with asthma and promoting discussions about heart-healthy habits. By adopting a holistic approach to asthma management, individuals can potentially reduce the risk of asthma-related complications and protect their heart health.
