Persistent asthma has long been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, but a new study suggests that the connection may be more complicated than previously thought.
Researchers found that people with persistent asthma are more likely to have increased buildup of plaque in the arteries leading to the brain. This finding is particularly concerning because it suggests that asthma may be a risk factor for stroke.
The study, which will be published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, looked at data from more than 4,000 adults. The participants were divided into three groups: those with asthma, those with other respiratory diseases, and those with no respiratory problems.
The researchers found that the group with asthma was more than twice as likely to have plaque buildup in the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain. This finding was independent of other risk factors for stroke, such as high blood pressure and smoking.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Kevin McConway, said that the findings highlight the need for more research into the effects of asthma on the cardiovascular system. “This is an important first step in understanding the mechanisms by which asthma might increase the risk of stroke,” he said.
It’s unclear why asthma might be linked to increased plaque buildup, but the study’s authors suggest that it may be due to inflammation. People with asthma are known to have higher levels of inflammation in their bodies, and this inflammation may contribute to the development of plaque.
Further research is needed to confirm the link between asthma and plaque buildup, and to determine whether treating asthma can reduce the risk of stroke. In the meantime, McConway said, “People with asthma should be aware of the potential increased risk of stroke and discuss this with their doctor.”
A new study has found that people with persistent asthma are more likely to have increased buildup of plaque in their arteries leading to the brain. This could put them at greater risk for stroke.
The study, published in the journal Stroke, looked at data from over 5,000 adults in the U.S. They found that those with persistent asthma were more than twice as likely to have high levels of plaque in their carotid arteries. This is the main artery that supplies blood to the brain.
This plaque buildup can lead to stroke, as it can block blood flow to the brain. The risk was even higher in those with severe asthma.
While the exact cause is not known, it is thought that inflammation from persistent asthma may contribute to the development of plaque in the arteries. This is yet another reason why it is important to control asthma and keep it under control.
If you have persistent asthma, talk to your doctor about ways to keep it under control. This may include taking medication, avoiding triggers, and making sure to get regular checkups.
