Can sinusitis cause asthma?

It is always important to adequately treat asthma to prevent the sinus symptoms from worsening.

As thick mucous secretions drain from the back of the nose down the throat, this often triggers extensive coughing to clear the space, and this coughing and the secretions which also cause inflammation, can lead to bronchial constriction, or asthma.

So treat the sinusitis adequately! Ensure that you use:

• Steroidal nasal spray to reduce swelling and inflammation, which will allow the sinuses to function normally. • Anti-histamine and decongestant

medications. • Leukotriene antagonists, e.g.,

Singular or Breathezy.

• Steam inhalations.

• Nasal irrigations.

• Antibiotics if the sinuses are infected with bacteria (symptoms are face pain and congestion with thick, yellow mucous and post-nasal drip).

• Reducing exposure to any allergens (materials which cause allergies to develop). Avoiding allergic triggers.

Also, if you are taking asthma medication (usually pumps), take them regularly and don’t miss doses. This is really important if you have chronic sinusitis.

The data shows that one in five persons who have chronic sinusitis also have asthma, and asthma symptoms will improve after proper treatment of the sinusitis.

If the sinusitis has worsened and wheezing is being experienced, it will be best if Wendell visits his doctor for complete management.