What does AERD mean in PRESCRIPTION

AERD stands for Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease, which is a type of chronic respiratory disorder in which the use of aspirin or other related drugs can make the condition worse.

Patients with AERD are typically found to have asthma, rhinitis, and nasal polyps.

Symptoms of AERD include shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, coughing and difficulty breathing when inhaling deeply. Other symptoms may also occur such as fatigue, sinus infections and headaches.

Diagnosis of AERD is based on medical history as well as physical exam findings such as blood tests and imaging studies. A doctor may also ask about family history to determine if allergies play a role in exacerbating the condition. An oral provocation challenge (OPC) may be used to definitively rule in or out a diagnosis of AERD.

Treatment for patients with AERD includes avoidance of NSAIDs; corticosteroids; immunomodulators; allergy shots; and leukotriene inhibitors that target inflammation pathways involved in asthma and allergies. Additional lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking or avoiding certain outdoor triggers can help reduce symptoms associated with the disorder. Surgery is sometimes recommended for severe cases of nasal polyps and breathing difficulty caused by blocked passageways due to swelling in the nose or sinuses.