Could I Have Severe Asthma?
If you're doing everything your doctor has recommended but are still experiencing the daily burden of uncontrolled asthma symptoms, you may have severe asthma. But you're not alone. Talk to your doctor about getting tested—together, you can make it more manageable.
What Is Severe Asthma?
Severe asthma can also remain uncontrolled despite sufferers consistently following their prescribed medication routine.
Did you know?
It’s estimated that 5-10% of people with asthma have severe asthma.
Types of Severe Asthma
There are two common types of severe asthma: allergic and nonallergic. Allergic asthma is caused—and triggered—by exposure to allergens, whereas nonallergic is asthma is caused by factors other than allergens.
Eosinophils and Asthma
Approximately 50% of severe asthma patients have elevated levels of eosinophils. Eosinophils (ee-uh-sin-uh-fils) are normal white blood cells that help regulate the immune system and fight off infections and disease. People with eosinophilic asthma have high numbers of eosinophils that can cause chronic lung inflammation and lead to the development of asthma.
How Eosinophils Affect Asthma
Treating Severe Asthma
If you’ve been diagnosed with severe asthma, your asthma specialist will develop a treatment plan that best addresses your type of severe asthma. This typically includes a daily regimen of inhaled steroids and other regular long-term controller medicines. Additional oral corticosteroids and/or biologic medications may be necessary.
Effects of Oral Corticosteroids
You and your doctor may decide that oral corticosteroids are necessary for managing your asthma. While corticosteroids can be life-saving in the event of an asthma attack, they come with some risks. Do not stop or start any medications without talking to your doctor.
Severe Asthma & Uncontrolled Asthma
Uncontrolled asthma could look like: