When Asthma and H1N1 Intersect

Asthma is the most common chronic medical condition found among people hospitalized for H1N1, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

So, if you have asthma, what do you need to know to protect yourself?

CBS News medical correspondent Dr. Jennifer Ashton said people with asthma are at such high risk for H1N1 complications because they are at high risk for respiratory complications.

But why?

Ashton said people who have asthma have lungs that are more susceptible to inflammation. If their lungs are infected with any upper respiratory infection, such as H1N1, they are then more prone to pneumonia and asthma exacerbation, which can turn into more critical health issues, Ashton said.

H1N1 Flu Information on the Web:
CBSNews.com Special Report: H1N1
Flu.gov
CDC Flu Advice
CDC Flu Questions and Answers

"People with asthma should have a treatment plan for how to control their symptoms," Ashton said.

In addition, some of the steroid drugs people take to control their asthma can suppress their immune system, Ashton said, placing them at greater risk for infection and possibly serious disease by H1N1.

Also, antivirals prescribed by your doctor such as Tamiflu can be effective, but not Relenza because it carries a risk of breathing problems.

Ashton said it is highly recommended for people with asthma, or any other underlying condition, to get the H1N1 vaccine in shot form - not the nasal spray. With asthmatics, especially, the shot is key, Ashton said, because the nasal spray can trigger an asthma attack.

"The spray contains a live, but weakened virus, so they really have to get the inactivated form," Ashton added. "And if they think they're suffering from any kind of asthmatic exacerbation, they need to see their doctor and aggressive treatments sooner rather than later."

If you have asthma and get flu-like symptoms, Ashton said, call the doctor right away.

She said, "You don't want to put that off."