Other Comorbidities

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Summary of practice points

 Level of evidence
Children with asthma, particularly those with significant atopy, should be assessed for features of OSA syndrome including snoring. III-3
The possibility of OSA should be investigated in adults with asthma who experience troublesome nocturnal symptoms despite optimal medical treatment. III-3
If OSA is confirmed by sleep study, a trial of continuous positive airway pressure should be considered. I
A trial of acid suppression therapy may be worthwhile if gastro-oesophageal reflux disease is suspected [√]. However, treatment for reflux does not predictably improve asthma control (I) [√] & I
When caring for patients with asthma, be alert to the increased risk of comorbid mental illness. III-3
When managing asthma in children, also consider carers' mental health status, since carers with depression and anxiety use emergency services more often. III-3