Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am 37 years old, female, PMH since age 24 years chronic rhinitis with polyps (grade 1) managed with daily nasal steroids and antihistamines. Based on a recent sinus CT scan the doctor did not think I would benefit from surgery as inflammation was minimal. I have had CRS with polyps for many years and am worried about developing asthma too. My dad developed asthma when he was 40 and has a history of nasal polyps based on what I have read asthma associated with polyps tends to be severe. I have not had symptoms specific to asthma and I took a spirometry test it was normal. I suppose it is the anticipation and fear of developing severe asthma in the future that bothers me as I appear to have all the risk factors. I am unable to identify an allergy for my persistent nasal symptoms all allergy tests were negative. Blood tests always reveal raised blood eosinophils 0.5 cells/ml. I am wondering if you could provide some insight into my level of risk for developing asthma, am I highly likely to develop it? Is there any way I can lower my risk of developing asthma?
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I read your query and understand your concern. Yes there is definitely an association of chronic rhinosinusitis with asthma especially if its with polyposis. There is a three fold increase in chance of developing asthma in such patients as compared to general population. But it is not necessary that every chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps patient will go on to develop asthma. Healthy lifestyle, physical activities, maintaining optimum weight, and good control of chronic rhinosinusitis symptoms can reduce the risk. And these days biologics play a very encouraging role in chronic rhinosinusitis as well as asthma. I hope I have cleared all your doubts. Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thank you for the reply. Is there a way to predict risk on an individual basis? For example, if asthma is going to develop would it do so within so many years after developing chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps? Do asthma onset and rhinitis with polyps tend to occur at similar times? I suppose so am trying to quantify my level of risk as I know nasal polyps are associated with severe asthma, especially in females.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
It is more common in young males than females, that developing asthma with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. You can go for genetic testing to know whether you carry the genes which predisposes individuals to develop asthma. Feel free to contact back for more queries. Thank you.
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Answered byDr. Oliyath Ali
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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