Allergic asthma, also known as extrinsic asthma, is a type of chronic asthma caused by an allergic reaction to an airborne trigger or allergen. 

Allergic asthma is the most common type of asthma, affecting approximately 80% of those with the condition. It is especially common in children, but can occur in adults as well. In this article, we'll look at the symptoms, triggers, and treatments for allergic asthma.

What is Allergic Asthma? 

Allergic asthma, also known as extrinsic asthma, is an allergic reaction that affects the airways. It can manifest as narrowing of the airways, increased mucus production, and inflammation leading to difficulty breathing and coughing. Allergic asthma is the most common type of asthma causing people to experience wheezing, chest tightness, coughing, and shortness of breath.

What Causes Allergic Asthma? 

Allergic asthma is initiated when a person is exposed to certain triggers, or allergens. These allergens can be from animal fur, dust, pollen, mold spores, cockroach saliva, and even certain foods. When the allergen enters the lungs, it triggers an immune reaction that causes the airways to narrow and become inflamed. This process can cause difficulty in breathing and other asthma-like symptoms.

Symptoms 

The common symptoms of allergic asthma include wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, coughing, and difficulty breathing. In some cases, people may also experience a runny nose, itchy eyes, and other allergic symptoms. It is important to note that the symptoms of allergic asthma can vary from person to person and can occur even when the allergen is not present.

Triggers As noted above, the most common triggers for allergic asthma are allergens from animals, dust, pollen, mold spores, cockroaches, and certain foods. Other common triggers include cigarette smoke, air pollution, strong odors, exercise, extreme temperatures, and emotional stress. It is important to note that not all triggers will cause an asthma attack in everyone. It is important to pay attention to your body and any potential triggers to identify what may be causing your asthma symptoms.

Treatment 

The treatment plan for allergic asthma will vary depending on the individual. Avoidance of known triggers is an important part of managing allergic asthma. Keep track of your symptoms and any triggers that may cause an asthma attack. Your doctor may suggest certain medications, such as antihistamines and inhalers, to help reduce the symptoms of allergic asthma. You can also manage your asthma symptoms with lifestyle changes, such as avoiding air pollutants, exercising regularly, and reducing stress levels.

Allergic asthma, or extrinsic asthma, is a chronic condition caused by an allergic reaction to an airborne allergen. The most common triggers include animal fur, dust, pollen, mold spores, cockroaches, and certain foods. Symptoms can include wheezing, chest tightness, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Treatment for allergic asthma includes avoidance of known triggers, certain medications, and lifestyle changes. It is important to find what works best for you and follow your doctor's treatment plan.