Eosinophilic Asthma vs Autoimmune Disease: What’s the Difference?

Struggling with unusual asthma symptoms or unexplained inflammation? You're not alone. Many people confuse eosinophilic asthma with autoimmune diseases. Both affect the immune system and often look alike. But they're very different conditions — and understanding the difference can change everything about your treatment.

Let's explore the key distinctions in a way that's easy to follow and instantly helpful.

What is eosinophilic asthma?

Eosinophilic asthma is a rare and severe form of asthma. It occurs when a type of white blood cell — called eosinophils — becomes overactive. These cells trigger inflammation in your airways, making breathing difficult.

This condition doesn't usually respond well to standard asthma treatments. Many people with it experience daily symptoms despite using inhalers or steroids.

Some warning signs include:

• Shortness of breath even at rest
• Cough that won't go away
• Wheezing without a cold
• Constant fatigue

It often develops in adults rather than children and may seem like your regular asthma has suddenly gotten worse.

Is eosinophilic asthma an autoimmune disease?

No, eosinophilic asthma is not an autoimmune disease. That's a common misunderstanding. In autoimmune diseases, the immune system attacks your healthy tissues by mistake.

In eosinophilic asthma, your immune system is overreacting — but it's targeting something external, like allergens or irritants. So, while the immune system is definitely involved, it's not attacking your own body.

On the other hand, autoimmune diseases include conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. These affect organs, joints, and even the nervous system.

How do symptoms differ between both conditions?

This is where things can get confusing. Both eosinophilic asthma and autoimmune diseases involve inflammation, fatigue, and breathing issues. However, they affect different body parts and behave differently.

Here's a quick comparison:

So, if you're coughing non-stop and wheezing but don't have joint pain or skin issues, asthma could be the culprit. Still, it's always best to get tested.

What tests help diagnose each condition?

Doctors use different tests to confirm these conditions. For eosinophilic asthma, they might:

• Check your blood for high eosinophil counts
• Do a sputum test (analysing mucus from lungs)
• Run lung function tests

For autoimmune diseases, the focus shifts to:

• Antibody blood tests
• Inflammatory markers like CRP or ESR
• Imaging like X-rays or MRIs for joint damage

A clear diagnosis is essential because the treatments vary widely. Misdiagnosis can lead to months of frustration and untreated symptoms.

Can treatments for one work for the other?

Not really. Since the root cause is different, treatment must be targeted.

For eosinophilic asthma, patients often need biologic therapies that directly reduce eosinophil activity. One such option includes fasenra injection uses, which help lower inflammation and improve breathing.

In contrast, autoimmune diseases require immunosuppressants. These medicines calm down the immune system, but they can't be used for asthma because they may worsen lung function or cause infections.

What are the most common respiratory disease symptoms?

Whether it's asthma or something else, here are the top symptoms to watch:

• Chronic cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Wheezing
• Frequent respiratory infections

These signs point to various lung problems, not just eosinophilic asthma. Always seek a proper medical evaluation to know for sure.

How do I know if I need advanced treatment?

If your inhaler no longer works, or your symptoms are waking you up at night, it's time for more than just the basics.

Medications like Benralizumab are prescribed when standard treatments fail. This biologic therapy targets eosinophils directly and reduces their activity. It's known to help patients breathe better, have fewer attacks, and enjoy a more active life.

Still, these medications must be prescribed by a specialist after detailed testing. Don't self-diagnose or self-medicate.

Final thoughts

Eosinophilic asthma and autoimmune diseases may look alike at a glance, but they're very different inside the body. One is a severe allergic-type reaction; the other is a case of mistaken identity by your immune system.

Understanding the symptoms, knowing when to get tested, and recognising your body's warning signs can make all the difference. You deserve a diagnosis that leads to real relief, not endless guesswork.

If your asthma seems worse than usual or treatment isn't working, don't wait. Ask your doctor for tests that can pinpoint the cause.

Breathe easier by getting the right help at the right time.