Eosinophilic asthma is severe asthma typically marked by high white blood cell levels. These cells are a part of the body’s immune system. They attack invading bacteria and ward off infections. But in people with eosinophilic asthma, the blood cells may result in swelling and inflammation in the respiratory system and airways. The higher the degree of eosinophils in the blood leads to severe symptoms. But recognizing the symptoms can help the doctor find the best treatment.

Causes
Experts have not been able to identify the causes of eosinophilic asthma. Though other asthma forms are triggered by allergic responses to environmental factors like pet hair, dander, or pollen, these are not necessarily the causes of eosinophilic asthma. One’s body develops eosinophils in excess when it cannot combat a parasitic infection, but there is no clarity on what causes a surge in these levels. Asthma has a familial link too. So, research is on to study the possibility of a genetic connection. However, as of now, no genetic link has been found.

Symptoms
Eosinophilic asthma symptoms can mimic the usual asthma symptoms. But beyond these typical signs, a person may also experience other symptoms. These include:

Wheezing
Obstructed airflow
Shortness of breath
Nasal polyps
Chronic sinus infection symptoms like nasal drainage, stuffy nose, and a decline in smell
Chest tightness
Higher than typical eosinophils in the blood
Coughing

Some eosinophilic asthma symptoms resemble chronic pulmonary obstructive disorder signs. One can consult with the doctor to comprehend these symptoms to get treatment options that help avoid flare-ups.

Diagnosis
If one has been diagnosed with asthma but does not tend to respond well to the treatment, the doctor may suspect a person has a less common subtype of asthma. The doctor will evaluate the person’s condition and look for some distinctive symptoms for a correct diagnosis.

A healthcare provider will collect a person’s blood, saliva, and sputum to check the white blood cell count. Higher levels of eosinophils can confirm the eosinophilic asthma diagnosis.

Apart from the blood test, the doctor may also perform a physical examination to confirm the suspected diagnosis. Some physical symptoms, like nasal polyps, can help confirm the diagnosis. The combination of the blood test and physical examination may be sufficient for the doctor to diagnose the condition.

Treatment options
Every one in twelve individuals in the country has asthma. Doctors understand that asthma can have sub-types, and each type will demand specific treatment options for the best possible outcome. Traditional asthma treatment requires a rescue inhaler and certain prescription treatments. But those with eosinophilic asthma might not respond well to these prescription treatments. Increasing the dosage might become ineffective, necessitating a shift to a completely different treatment. Hence, doctors work towards managing eosinophilic asthma inflammation and lowering the possibility of severe inflammation in the future. The side effects and symptoms are less severe if doctors devise treatment options for inflammation. Here is a list of some of the most commonly suggested treatment options:

Fast-acting inhalers
People with general asthma use rescue inhalers as a treatment. These can work with this type of asthma but lose their efficacy over time.

Prescription treatments
Inhalers may not show any positive effects for a few people. Hence, the healthcare professional may recommend certain prescription treatments for one with eosinophilic asthma. But it may have more complications and side effects than an inhaler.

When leukotriene, a compound found in the body, and eosinophils cause inflammation, a doctor may recommend prescription treatments to help alleviate the symptoms.

Biologic therapies
These curtail the chemicals in the body that trigger swelling and inflammation. Doctors will deliver them via an intravenous drip.

Eosinophilic asthma is one of the most challenging types of asthma to treat. To determine what works best, a person will probably need to try a few different things. A person can be said to have “well-controlled” asthma if one only experiences symptoms two days a week or less. If a person often encounters asthma symptoms or if the disease interferes with daily activities, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider. To aid with the improvement of the symptoms and quality of life, they might prescribe stronger long-term treatments. By controlling the eosinophilic asthma symptoms, one may be able to lower the risk of lung scarring and other long-term consequences.

Taking care of one’s overall health can also help the therapy go more smoothly. One must ensure:

A balanced meal plan and enough sleep
Stress reduction

Reducing the likelihood of flare-ups can be achieved by avoiding triggers like stress, allergies, and chemical irritants.