Does Asthma Increase My Risk of Heart Disease?

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that develops when the airways in your lungs become inflamed and can narrow and swell, making breathing difficult. 

Common asthma symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and, in some cases, might even threaten your life if they’re not properly managed. 

Getting a timely diagnosis and treatment for asthma is crucial to controlling the condition and preventing complications. 

During an asthma attack, your body panics, your heart races, and your oxygen levels drop. These episodes stress your cardiovascular system. Over time, chronic inflammation from asthma can damage blood vessels, increase blood pressure, and increase your risk of heart disease.

So, if asthma increases your risk of heart disease, what can you do to protect your health? For starters, find an expert who understands the impact asthma has on your whole body, not just your lungs. 

At Advanced Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Center PA in San Antonio and Schertz, Texas, our lead allergist, Dr. Patricia Gomez-Dinger, specializes in helping patients manage their asthma effectively, ensuring they can breathe easier and live healthier lives. 

If you’re living with asthma, learn more about the connection between asthma and heart disease and what you can do to protect your heart.

How asthma and heart disease are connected

While asthma and heart disease are distinct conditions, research shows they are connected in several ways.  

Chronic inflammation can damage your heart

Asthma triggers chronic inflammation that doesn’t just affect your lungs; it can also harm your heart and blood vessels. Over time, persistent inflammation can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, possibly causing heart attacks and strokes.

People who have asthma also tend to have higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), which is linked to cardiovascular disease. High CRP levels suggest your body is in chronic inflammation, which can strain your heart and blood vessels over time. 

Low oxygen levels put extra strain on your heart

Your heart works harder to compensate when you’re not getting enough oxygen. If this happens frequently, it can increase your risk of high blood pressure and heart failure.

Some asthma medications affect heart rate

Certain asthma medications, like bronchodilators (such as albuterol), can temporarily raise your heart rate and blood pressure. While these effects are usually harmless, excessive use may stress your heart over time. 

Additionally, long-term steroid use can lead to weight gain and higher blood sugar levels, both of which increase the risk of heart disease.

Asthma is linked to sleep apnea

Many people with asthma also have sleep apnea, a condition where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts as you sleep. Sleep apnea can lower oxygen levels and increase the risk of high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, and heart attacks.

Who is most at risk?

People with severe or uncontrolled asthma have a higher risk of heart disease because their bodies experience frequent inflammation and respiratory stress. 

Obesity is another factor. Carrying excess weight can make breathing more difficult, worsening asthma symptoms and putting extra strain on your heart. Additionally, obesity is linked to high blood pressure and diabetes, both of which increase the risk of heart disease.

Regular physical activity strengthens the lungs and heart, but when people with asthma avoid exercise due to fear of triggering symptoms, they miss out on these benefits. Over time, inactivity weakens both the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.

How to reduce your risk 

While asthma may increase the risk of heart disease, you have several ways to minimize this risk. Follow your asthma action plan, take medications as prescribed, and see Dr. Gomez-Dinger regularly to ensure your treatment is working properly. 

Eating a balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains and engaging in regular exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, strengthens your cardiovascular system and helps you maintain a healthy weight, which reduces strain on your lungs and heart.

Since asthma and heart disease share common risk factors, it’s important to keep an eye on your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Regular check-ups with Dr. Gomez-Dinger can help detect any issues early.

Finally, getting the right medical support makes all the difference. Managing asthma effectively requires more than using an inhaler when symptoms flare up. Working with a specialist ensures you get personalized care tailored to your needs. 

At Advanced Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Center PA, we provide expert care to help you manage your symptoms, improve your quality of life, and reduce your risk of long-term complications. Request an appointment with us online or call your nearest office today.