Asthma and obesity are linked. While obesity does not cause asthma, it is a risk factor for future development of asthma. According to Dr. Fernando Holguin, assistant director of the Asthma Institute of University of Pittsburgh at UPMC, “the relationship between asthma and overweight/obesity is multi-layered.” He explains, “among overweight/obese patients with asthma, the increase in body weight impairs the response to medications. Obesity also makes the airways more twitchy and difficult to dilate or open.” Doctors observe that obese individuals with asthma go through more hospitalizations than do non-obese asthmatics. Reducing weight can make a significant difference in presentation of asthma symptoms and complications. Dr. Holguin explains, “the number one lifestyle change that someone who is obese or overweight can make is to exercise routinely and lose weight. Even small changes in lifestyle and a decrease in weight can make a big difference in how you feel.” This includes improving asthma symptoms. If you or someone you know needs help with asthma, please contact us! You may qualify for one of our clinical studies.
Posted on: Wed, 12 Nov 2014 01:03:57 +0000
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