Asthma and Heart Disease: What You Should Know

Were you aware that February is American Heart Health Month? It’s a time to raise awareness about the prevalence of heart disease in America and how to prevent illness.

Unfortunately, active asthma can significantly increase the risk of a cardiovascular event such as a heart attack or stroke. Taking daily asthma medication can also increase your risk of a cardiovascular event over time. There is also known overlap between asthma and COPD–which carries its own link to heart disease.

Both asthma and heart disease affect millions of Americans. About 25 million Americans have asthma, including 1 in 10 children. Meanwhile, heart disease is a leading cause of death in the US.

Some researchers believe the tie between asthma and heart disease may be inflammation and swelling. Both conditions involve heightened inflammation, which is the immune system’s method to heal body tissue after injury or infection. Chronic inflammation, associated with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, nasal allergies, or asthma, can cause permanent damage.

It’s important for asthma patients to work with their physicians to do everything they can to control their changeable risk factors of heart disease. That means maintaining a heart healthy diet and weight, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco and second-hand smoke, and learning how to manage chronic stress.

People with asthma should take chest discomfort and any other symptoms of a heart attack seriously and seek prompt treatment, particularly since the treatment of heart and asthma are different, though the chest symptoms might feel similar.

If you have asthma or allergies, Covenant is here to help you live a healthier life in all aspects of your day. Visit our website today to learn more about our services and make an appointment to manage your symptoms and risk factors.