Eosinophilic asthma (EA) is a serious asthma subtype characterized by high eosinophil levels, leading to airway inflammation. Early diagnosis through blood tests and lung assessments is vital. Treatments include inhaled corticosteroids, biologic therapies, and lifestyle measures to prevent progression and manage symptoms effectively, improving quality of life for EA patients.

Eosinophilic asthma (EA) is a severe form of asthma characterized by high levels of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell involved in immune responses. In EA, these cells cause airway inflammation and swelling, making symptoms more intense and harder to control than other asthma types. It’s a rare condition requiring precise diagnosis to ensure effective management.

Recognizing EA Symptoms:
Symptoms such as shortness of breath, persistent cough, wheezing, chest tightness, nasal polyps, sinus infections, and elevated eosinophil counts should prompt a visit to a pulmonologist for assessment.

Breathing difficulties

Chronic coughing

Wheezing during respiration

Chest sensation of tightness and airflow obstruction

Nasal polyps and sinus issues

Long-term sinusitis symptoms like congestion and loss of smell

High eosinophil levels detected via blood tests

Since some EA symptoms resemble COPD, accurate diagnosis is critical for appropriate treatment. Unlike common asthma caused by allergens, EA’s exact trigger remains uncertain. Diagnosis involves lung function tests, blood eosinophil counts, and bronchial biopsies.

Main treatments include inhaled corticosteroids and rescue inhalers. When these are insufficient, targeted therapies are employed to reduce inflammation and control eosinophil activity, preventing flare-ups.

Corticosteroids: Sometimes taken orally if inhalers are not enough, but may have side effects.

Biologic agents: Injectable medicines that block inflammatory pathways related to EA.

Leukotriene inhibitors: Drugs that suppress inflammation-promoting chemicals.

Rescue inhalers: Fast-acting inhalers for immediate relief, though effectiveness may diminish over time.

Untreated EA can lead to tissue damage, persistent scarring, and complications such as ear infections, sinusitis, aspirin sensitivity, nasal polyps, and eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases like eosinophilic gastroenteritis.

Consistent management and lifestyle choices, including regular exercise, balanced diet, and rest, are essential for controlling EA and boosting overall health.