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Asthma/sickness with asthma

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Expert: - 4/5/2011


Question
ever since i was diagonosed with exercise induced asthma i have seemed to get sick more often is that normal? i have gotten colds twice a year since having asthma, losing my voice two times a year and last may i even got pneumonia. is that normal?

Answer
Hi Ashleigh,

Patients with asthma are at a higher risk of lung infections due to both the swelling of the airways which restricts good airflow, as well as a greater production of mucous. This can create an environment making it easier for an infection to get established and grow.

How was the determination of exercise induced bronchospasm (EIB) made? Was any testing done (blood tests, skin testing, spirometry)? Also, was the evaluation made by a pulmonologist or allergist, or by a family physician? The vast majority of patients with EIB, also have other "triggers" which set off attacks. If the physician is only looking at exercise as the initiating process which brings on the attack, the potential underlying process may be overlooked. If there is a constant presence of inflammation that is not being addressed, this would lead to the issues you are dealing with. If you also have allergic asthma, with the proper controls put in place (preventative measures as well as medication), you can dramatically reduce the incidence of these infections.

Let me know what sort of evaluation you went through, and we can proceed from there.

Sincerely,

Marc

Asthma

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Volunteer

Marc Rubin, RPh Asthma Educator

Expertise

I have worked directly with patients as well as caregivers for over 30 years. Have made presentations throughout Illinois educating school nurses as well as the teaching and coaching staff of public schools about asthma, and how they should respond to these students needs. Presented a public education program on asthma through the US Department of Public Health. Specialize in helping guide asthmatic patients to take control of their disease in order to live a near-normal, fully active life.

Experience

Practicing pharmacist for 34 years, specializing in asthma for past 7 years. Statewide education to nurses, teachers and athletic coaches regarding asthma. In addition, and closer to home. my wife and daughter both have asthma, and my son has exercise induced bronchospasm. I'm also on the advisory board of a medical education company, Emmi Solutions, and directly involved in the creation of public education programs for asthma, COPD and diabetes.

Organizations
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) / Sports Medicine Committee, American Thoracic Society (ATS). Chicago Asthma Consortium / Professional Development Committee, Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago: Development Committee for AE-C prep class, and presenter.

Publications
AAAAI PowerPoint on the new guidelines for EIB (Exercise Induced Bronchospasm)

Education/Credentials
BScPharm, RPh, AE-C (NAECB Certified asthma educator), NIPCO Certified Respiratory Care Pharmacist

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