
VIENNA, VA, AUGUST 31, 2022 – Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease (AERD) is becoming more recognized as a chronic medical condition. Patient advocacy organizations continue to lead efforts to raise awareness of the disease.
Allergy & Asthma Network announces that AERD Awareness Day this year is Monday, Sept. 26. The purpose of AERD Awareness Day is to encourage healthcare professionals and patients to stay vigilant in identifying, understanding and managing the condition. Since AERD is a rare disease, it is sometimes difficult for patients to find doctors who are knowledgeable about it.
Diagnosing AERD is especially important as we live through the COVID-19 pandemic. Some AERD symptoms, including loss of sense of smell, are also symptoms of COVID-19. Patients should talk with their doctor when symptoms arise and consider getting tested regularly for COVID-19.
What is AERD?
AERD involves asthma, nasal polyps and a sensitivity to aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It affects approximately 1.2 million to 1.6 million people in the United States. Also known as Samter’s Triad, AERD often develops in adulthood, usually between the ages of 20 and 50. Symptoms sometimes do not respond to conventional treatments.
As part of AERD Awareness Day, Allergy & Asthma Network distributes patient education resources in print and online. Our newest publication, “Your AERD Medical Management Appointment Guide,” helps prepare patients for doctor’s appointments, and more.
The Network also provides free posters for allergists, pulmonologists, asthma educators, respiratory therapists and other healthcare professionals.
