Samter's triad (aspirin-sensitive asthma with nasal polyps)

Overview

People with AERD have asthma, nasal polyps, and reactions to aspirin and NSAIDs.

Reactions include wheezing, stuffy nose, and flushing.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Asthma with nasal polyps
• Stuffy nose and poor smell for months
• Wheezing

Less common

• Reaction to aspirin

When to get medical care

Causes

Unknown.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Exam:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Avoid NSAIDs unless desensitized
• Rinse sinuses

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Avoid NSAIDs unless desensitized
• Avoid aspirin and NSAIDs

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an allergist (allergy and asthma doctor).

Living with it

• Follow a written asthma action plan.
• Keep your rescue inhaler with you.
• Avoid smoke and know your triggers.
• Get a flu shot every year.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Education and online support for asthma, allergies, and eczema.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Adults 20 to 40: Often starts then.
• Adults 30 to 40: Often starts.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• This condition needs closer checkups during pregnancy. Plan ahead with your doctor.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Treatment controls symptoms.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Samter's triad (aspirin-sensitive asthma with nasal polyps)