Impact of asthma on the respiratory system: An examination
Asthma is a common respiratory condition that affects millions worldwide. While primarily affecting the lungs, asthma can influence other parts of the body, particularly the cardiovascular system and other organs.
Impact on the Cardiovascular System
Severe asthma, characterised by chronic systemic inflammation, can pose a risk to the cardiovascular system. This inflammation can affect blood vessels and the heart, potentially leading to increased risks of arrhythmias and cardiac stress. However, recent studies indicate that biologic therapies, such as anti-IgE and anti-IL5/IL5R, used in severe asthma patients, have been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular events like congestive heart failure, peripheral artery disease, arrhythmias, and stroke compared to non-biologic users [1][5].
Asthma exacerbations can cause low oxygen levels and increased workload on the heart, which could aggravate existing heart conditions. Moreover, research suggests that systemic inflammation in asthma might contribute to atherosclerosis and other vascular problems, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease in some patients [1][5].
Effects on Other Body Parts
Respiratory System: Asthma causes inflammation in the airways, leading to airway constriction, mucus buildup, and symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
Musculoskeletal System: Frequent coughing and the use of accessory respiratory muscles can cause muscle fatigue and chest tightness.
Nervous System: Hypoxia and disturbed sleep due to asthma symptoms can lead to fatigue, anxiety, and confusion.
Systemic Effects: Severe or poorly controlled asthma can result in generalised fatigue, reduced exercise tolerance, and decreased quality of life due to ongoing respiratory and cardiovascular strain.
In summary, asthma affects the cardiovascular system mainly through systemic inflammation and hypoxia, potentially increasing the risk of heart-related conditions, though biologic therapies show promise in reducing these risks in severe asthma patients. Beyond the lungs and heart, asthma's systemic consequences can involve muscle fatigue and neurological symptoms caused by oxygen deprivation and stress responses [1][5].
[1] Lomardi, F., & Rabe, K. F. (2019). Asthma and cardiovascular disease: A state-of-the-art review. Respiratory Research, 20(1), 1-12. [5] Wenzel, S. E., et al. (2019). Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) 2019 report on asthma management and prevention. Allergy, 74(5), 743-789.
- Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, can pose a risk to the cardiovascular system, particularly in severe cases, due to chronic systemic inflammation that affects blood vessels and the heart, potentially leading to increased risks of arrhythmias and cardiac stress.
- Recent studies suggest that biologic therapies, such as anti-IgE and anti-IL5/IL5R, have been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular events like congestive heart failure, peripheral artery disease, arrhythmias, and stroke in severe asthma patients compared to non-biologic users.
- Asthma exacerbations can cause low oxygen levels, which could aggravate existing heart conditions and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in some patients, as systemic inflammation in asthma might contribute to atherosclerosis and other vascular problems.
- Beyond the lungs and heart, asthma's systemic consequences can involve muscle fatigue and neurological symptoms caused by oxygen deprivation and stress responses, impacting overall health and wellness, fitness and exercise, and mental health.
