Comprehensive Guide to Managing Eosinophilic Asthma

Approximately 25.7 million Americans suffer from asthma, with around 15% experiencing severe, hard-to-control forms. Eosinophilic asthma, a less common and often severe subtype, mainly affects adults and results from elevated eosinophil levels in the blood, lungs, and mucus. This build-up causes swelling and inflammation, leading to intensified symptoms like persistent coughing and chest tightness. Though similar to other asthma types, eosinophilic asthma tends to be more severe.

Specific treatments target this subtype. All asthmatics require bronchodilators like albuterol, often administered via nebulizer for relief. Corticosteroids—primarily inhaled, but sometimes oral—help prevent attacks by reducing lung inflammation. Recently, biologic therapies, which mimic human antibodies, are used in injections or IV infusions to inhibit inflammatory chemicals. Leukotriene antagonists such as montelukast, zafirlukast, and zileuton also reduce airway inflammation caused by immune chemicals. Additionally, bronchial thermoplasty, an invasive procedure burning airway muscles with heat, shows promise for severe, steroid-resistant cases. Ongoing research aims to enhance treatment options for eosinophilic asthma.