Eczema and Asthma: The Hidden Connection
Eczema and Asthma – two inflammatory conditions that often co-occur, are affecting millions worldwide. In a survey, it was found that around 25% of atopic dermatitis patients were also diagnosed with asthma at the same time. This led to an inquisitiveness among medical researchers to understand the hidden connection between these two.
Eczema
Eczema means 'Vicharchika' in Ayurveda. It results in itching, inflammation, and formation of scaly patches on the skin. This commonly manifests in childhood but can emerge in adulthood as well. According to the non-profit National Eczema Association (NEA), here are the current statistics of eczema:
● Worldwide, 10% to 20% are children survivors
● Around 2% to 10% are adults
According to Ayurvedic theory, this condition is a result of imbalanced bodily energies (doshas), mainly Kapha and Pitta doshas. Under Ayurvedic treatment for atopic eczema, these energies are primarily managed to help address the root cause of eczema occurrence.
Asthma
'Swasa Roga' – an Ayurvedic term for Asthma. It is marked by inflammation and the narrowing of the airways. As per the reports of the WHO (World Health Organization), the count of people with asthma has crawled up to around 260 million globally.
The common signs of Swasa Roga that one has to survive are shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing. In the initial stage, this disease is treatable. However, it can become chronic and incurable with time due to improper management or medical attention.
But there is still hope. Ayurveda is one such avenue by which asthma patients receive relief from the painful exacerbations that they are forced to experience.
The Connection Between Eczema And Asthma
Atopic March
This phenomenon of co-occurrence of eczema and asthma, is referred to as the 'atopic march'. The studies have proven that up to 80% of children with eczema may become the victim to allergies and asthma in the future.
One of the top leading Ayurvedic doctors of India, Dr. Mukesh Sharda has shared, 'People who have severe or chronic eczema are significantly more likely to catch asthma'. A few factors can further increase the risk, such as family history, high immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels, and early sensitivity to allergens.
Role Of Immune System
People with both conditions often have mutations in their gene named FLG (filaggrin). This is a gene that maintains the skin's barrier. In case of a defective skin barrier, allergens are free to enter the body, triggering an immune response that will eventually lead to asthma.
Plus, as shared above, people who are dealing with eczema and asthma often have higher levels of IgE antibodies. This makes them more reactive to allergens. For eg., dust mites, pollen, and pet dander.
Hidden Facts & Recent Findings
The emerging research continues to shed light on the eczema-asthma connection.
● In a 2023 study from Stanford University, they found that the patients with asthma or eczema have around a 58% higher risk of developing osteoarthritis (in approx. 10 years). Worst part? This risk is doubled for individuals with both conditions.
● 40% of children with eczema develop asthma by age 5. This highlights the importance of early and proper medical intervention for management.
● Air pollution and climate change have doubled the prevalence of both conditions in the past 50 years.
● Some eczema patients experience 'asthma attacks' due to skin inflammation, even though without any direct involvement of the lungs.
The Ayurvedic Management Approach of Dr. Sharda Ayurveda
Ayurveda offers a unique way of dealing with various health diseases, and being deeply connected to its roots, Dr. Sharda Ayurveda's team follows the same path.
As eczema and asthma are 2 different health disorders, they both are managed in a significant manner. Ayurveda believes that the root cause of each skin disease lies somewhere within the body itself. Thus, the treatment is not just topical for symptomatic relief. Therefore, under Ayurvedic skin treatment, detoxification therapies are offered to cleanse the body. Plus, herbal remedies and nutritional adjustments in the Eczema diet are also prescribed as required.
Whereas, managing respiratory conditions with Ayurvedic strategies may include breathing exercises and modifications in lifestyle and eating habits. However, each patient is offered a unique plan. It is completely personalized as per the body type of the patient and the severity of their disease.
Sum Up
Understanding the link between asthma and eczema aids in finding a proper cure for the condition. Ayurvedic medicine offers valuable management options that focus on healing and addressing the underlying imbalances, especially doshas and impurification.
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