Q My rhinitis is severe, and every change of season I also get a touch of asthma. Are the two related? Can they improve together?
A Allergic rhinitis and asthma are upper and lower extensions of the same airway allergic reaction, so they often appear together. When the hypersensitivity of the nasal mucosa is managed, irritation of the lower airway also decreases, and accompanying symptoms often improve together.
Detailed Answer
The nose and bronchi are one connected airway, so when allergic rhinitis is present, asthma often appears alongside it or the two worsen each other's symptoms. Cold air and irritants that the nose fails to filter can travel down to the lower airway and increase coughing and breathing discomfort. That is why the entire airway must be examined together rather than looking at the nose alone.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Dongjedang does not separate the nose and bronchi but manages the common foundation of weakened lung qi and hypersensitive mucosa together. When the hypersensitivity of the upper nose subsides, irritation of the lower airway also decreases, and in many cases even the touch of asthma during the change of seasons becomes considerably lighter. However, when asthma is severe, it is safer to proceed alongside respiratory care.
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