When we think of asthma, we often associate it with wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. However, asthma doesn’t just affect the lungs; it can also impact overall health, including the heart and brain. Several research studies suggests a surprising link between asthma and an increased risk of stroke. But how does a respiratory condition affect the brain? Let’s find out from a leading expert.
Also Read: Why You Shouldn't Take A Mini Stroke Lightly
The Asthma-Stroke Connection
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes swelling and narrowing of the airways. But this inflammation doesn’t just stay in the lungs. According to Dr Kadam Nagpal, Head—Neuroimmunology and Senior Neurologist, Salubritas Medical Centre, New Delhi, chronic inflammation can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of clot formation, a major trigger for stroke.
Dr Vikas Mittal, Pulmonologist and Director of Wellness Home Clinic and Sleep Centre, Paschim Vihar, Delhi, adds that certain asthma medications, like corticosteroids, can affect blood pressure and metabolism, further influencing stroke risk.
Living with asthma means more than just dealing with occasional breathing difficulties. The condition can put extra strain on the cardiovascular system in several ways:
Oxygen Deprivation: Severe asthma attacks can reduce oxygen supply to the body, making the heart work harder and increasing stress on the brain.
Inflammation and Blood Vessel Damage: Chronic inflammation, a key feature of asthma, can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, raising the risk of high blood pressure, atherosclerosis (narrowed arteries), and stroke.
Stress Hormones: During asthma flare-ups, the body releases stress hormones that can lead to irregular heart rhythms and high blood pressure.
Can Chronic Inflammation Increase Stroke Risk?
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, most commonly due to a clot blocking an artery. Therefore, inflammation, a core characteristic of asthma, damages the inner lining of blood vessels, making it easier for plaque to form and clots to develop.
Over time, this can significantly raise the chances of an ischaemic stroke, which is the most common type of stroke.
Also Read: Bronchial Spasm Explained: Why It Happens And How To Manage It
Do Asthma Medications Affect Blood Pressure and Blood Clots?
For many asthma patients, long-term use of corticosteroids helps control symptoms, but these medications come with side effects. Dr Mittal points out that steroids can lead to fluid retention, weight gain, and metabolic changes, all of which contribute to high blood pressure. Some studies also suggest that asthma-related inflammation may alter blood clotting mechanisms, increasing the risk of thrombosis (dangerous blood clots).
How To Lower Stroke Risk If You Have Asthma
The good news? You can take steps to protect both your lungs and your heart. Dr. Nagpal shares some key precautions asthma patients should follow:
Manage Inflammation: Stick to prescribed asthma treatments and take anti-inflammatory medications as directed.
Keep Blood Pressure in Check: Monitor your blood pressure regularly and follow a diet low in salt and processed foods.
Exercise Smartly: Engage in moderate physical activity like walking or swimming, but avoid known asthma triggers.
Quit Smoking and Avoid Pollutants: Tobacco smoke and air pollution worsen both asthma and vascular health.
Regular Health Check-ups: Routine doctor visits help monitor both respiratory and cardiovascular health.
Conclusion
If you have asthma, paying attention to your overall health is just as important as managing your breathing. So, next time you think of asthma as just a lung condition, remember – it’s all connected. Taking care of your lungs means taking care of your heart and brain, too.
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