Could Your Asthma Or COPD Be Hereditary?
Lung health Your asthma or COPD could be a hereditary disease called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (Alpha-1). Alpha-1 is a serious, rare, hereditary disorder and can result in fatal lung or liver disease.
If you, or someone you know, have a family history of lung disease; rapid deterioration of lung function; asthma that is not fully responsive to treatment; shortness of breath; decreased tolerance of exercise and routine activity; recurring respiratory infections; and chronic cough, you will want to ask your doctor about being tested for Alpha-1.
The World Health Organization, American Thoracic Society, Alpha-1 Canada and others recommend that everyone with COPD be tested for Alpha-1. Testing is easy and free. Early detection, treatment and lifestyle changes can make a dramatic difference, but first you need to know if you have it.
"Testing is easy and free. Early detection, treatment and lifestyle changes can make a dramatic difference, but first you need to know if you have it."
Getting tested
Dr. Marsha Speevak is a geneticist at Credit Valley Hospital. She said, “Alpha-1 is confirmed by a simple blood test that looks at the serum level of the alpha-1 protein. Genetic testing and counseling are also available for patients and their family members.” Other clues are a family history of liver disease, unexplained liver problems, and elevated liver enzymes. Alpha-1 can seriously affect newborns and children who could require a liver transplant to survive.
If you are the least bit suspicious that you could have Alpha-1, you should immediately get tested, avoid harm to your liver and refrain from alcohol, street drugs, some over the counter drugs and certain prescribed medications.
Blood relatives of persons with Alpha-1 should also consult their doctor about being tested.
"If you are the least bit suspicious that you could have Alpha-1, you should immediately get tested, avoid harm to your liver and refrain from alcohol, street drugs, some over the counter drugs and certain prescribed medications."
An early diagnosis of Alpha-1 presents you with important opportunities to take steps to minimize your risk factors, limit your symptoms, or slow the progression of your disease.
There is a specific treatment available, but its cost is covered only in some provinces. Helping those with a rare disease takes many. Alone we can do a little; together we can do so much more.
