AERD (Aspirin‑Exacerbated Respiratory Disease)

When dealing with AERD, a chronic condition where aspirin and other NSAIDs trigger respiratory symptoms. Also known as Samter’s Triad, it typically combines three key problems: asthma, inflammation and narrowing of the airways, nasal polyps, soft tissue growths inside the nose that block airflow, and a heightened sensitivity to aspirin. Understanding how these pieces fit together helps you manage flare‑ups and choose the right therapy.

Managing AERD starts with avoidance – staying clear of aspirin, ibuprofen, and any drug that hits the COX‑1 pathway. For many patients, doctors add a leukotriene inhibitor, a medication that blocks inflammatory leukotrienes released during an aspirin reaction such as montelukast or zileuton. These drugs lower the odds of an asthma attack and can shrink nasal polyps over time. In addition, daily intranasal corticosteroids, biologics targeting IgE or IL‑5, and sometimes endoscopic sinus surgery round out the toolbox. Each option tackles a different part of the triad: airway inflammation, polyp growth, or the aspirin trigger.

Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that dig deeper into each aspect of AERD – from spotting early signs and navigating medication choices to lifestyle tweaks that keep flare‑ups at bay. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or looking to fine‑tune your treatment plan, the resources here give practical steps you can act on right away.