Premium
Comorbidities of asthma and the unified airway
Author(s) -
Stachler Robert J.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
international forum of allergy and rhinology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.503
H-Index - 46
eISSN - 2042-6984
pISSN - 2042-6976
DOI - 10.1002/alr.21615
Subject(s) - medicine , asthma , comorbidity , airway , intensive care medicine , disease , epidemiology , quality of life (healthcare) , immunology , surgery , nursing
Background Asthma is a comorbid condition that may be seen by otolaryngic allergists when treating their patients with allergic rhinitis (AR). Often asthma is overlooked when aggressive treatment could prevent the development or progression of early disease. Methods This article is a retrospective review of the current literature on asthma as a comorbidity of the unified airway. The unified airway and asthma are clearly defined. The epidemiology, morbidity, mortality, pathophysiologic mechanisms, and the chronicity of asthma are reviewed. Results The otolaryngic allergist will become familiar the unified airway concept and the close relationships between AR, chronic rhinosinusitis, and asthma. Conclusion Otolaryngologists should be aware of the unified airway in order to most effectively treat their patients with AR. Knowledge of the close relationships between asthma and AR will help prevent progression of disease, identify early asthma, and improve the outcomes and quality of life for our patients.