allergic asthma

What is Allergic Asthma?

Allergic asthma, also known as extrinsic asthma, is a type of asthma that is triggered by inhaling allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mold, and other substances. This condition is characterized by inflammation of the airways and recurrent episodes of breathing difficulty.

Symptoms of Allergic Asthma

The symptoms of allergic asthma are similar to those of non-allergic asthma, but they often appear after exposure to specific allergens. These symptoms may include:

• Wheezing or coughing
• Shortness of breath or feeling winded easily
• Chest tightness or discomfort
• Coughing up mucus or phlegm

Triggers of Allergic Asthma

Allergic asthma is triggered by inhaling allergens such as: * Dust mites * Pet dander (e.g., cat, dog) * Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds * Mold spores * Other substances like cockroach waste or insect bites

Differences between Allergic and Non-Allergic Asthma

While the symptoms of allergic and non-allergic asthma are similar, there are some key differences. Allergic asthma is often triggered by specific allergens, whereas non-allergic asthma may be triggered by factors such as viral respiratory infections, exercise, irritants in the air, stress, or certain medications.

Treatment Options for Allergic Asthma

The treatment of allergic asthma typically involves avoiding exposure to known allergens and using medication to control symptoms. Medications like omalizumab (Xolair) can help prevent the allergic reaction that triggers asthma symptoms by interfering with IgE in the body.

Prevalence of Allergic Asthma

Allergic asthma is the most common form of asthma, affecting millions of people worldwide. Understanding the causes and symptoms of allergic asthma is essential for effective management and treatment.

References:

• [2] Symptoms that go along with allergic asthma show up after you breathe things called allergens (or allergy triggers) like pollen, dust mites, ...
• [3] Allergic asthma is triggered by inhaled allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mold, etc. resulting in asthma symptoms.
• [9] Allergic asthma is the most common form of asthma. Many of the symptoms of allergic and non-allergic asthma are the same. However, allergic asthma is ...
• [8] The medication omalizumab (Xolair) interferes with IgE in the body and helps prevent the allergic reaction that triggers asthma symptoms.
• [5] Asthma is a breathing disorder characterized by inflammation of the airways and recurrent episodes of breathing difficulty.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Allergic Asthma

Allergic asthma can manifest in various ways, making it essential to recognize the symptoms to seek medical attention promptly. Here are some common signs and symptoms associated with allergic asthma:

• Respiratory Issues: Shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness are hallmark symptoms of allergic asthma [1][2].
• Coughing: A persistent and often severe cough is a characteristic symptom of allergic asthma, especially at night or during exercise [3].
• Wheezing: A high-pitched whistling sound when breathing out is another common symptom of allergic asthma [4].
• Chest Tightness: Feeling like your chest is constricted or tight can be a sign of allergic asthma [5].
• Other Symptoms: In addition to respiratory issues, people with allergic asthma may also experience common allergy symptoms such as runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin reactions [6][7].

Additional Signs and Symptoms

Some individuals may exhibit additional signs and symptoms, including:

• Itchy skin
• Rash
• Flaky skin
• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Congestion

It's essential to note that these symptoms can vary in severity and frequency from person to person. If you suspect you or a loved one has allergic asthma, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References:

[1] Context result 1: "Allergic asthma is asthma due to breathing in an allergen like pet dander or pollen."

[2] Context result 4: "Asthma Signs and Symptoms · Shortness of breath · Cough · Chest tightness or pain · Wheeze (a whistling sound when you breathe)"

[3] Context result 5: "Cough; Wheeze; Be short of breath; Breathe quickly; Feel your chest get tight."

[4] Context result 7: "Wheezing (a whistling or hissing sound when you breathe out)."

[5] Context result 4: "Chest tightness or pain · Wheeze (a whistling sound when you breathe)"

[6] Context result 2: "Runny nose, usually with nasal congestion and sneezing."

[7] Context result 8: "itchy skin · rash · flaky skin · runny nose · itchy eyes · watery eyes · congestion."

Diagnostic Tests for Allergic Asthma

Allergic asthma can be diagnosed using various tests that help identify the presence of an allergy and its impact on lung function. Here are some common diagnostic tests used to diagnose allergic asthma:

• Skin Tests: These tests involve pricking the skin with a small amount of an allergen, such as pollen or dust mites, to see if it triggers an allergic reaction [1]. Skin tests can help identify specific allergies that may be contributing to asthma symptoms.
• Blood Tests: Blood tests measure the levels of IgE antibodies in the blood, which are produced in response to an allergen [3]. Elevated IgE levels can indicate an allergy and may be used to diagnose allergic asthma.
• Challenge Test: This test involves inhaling a small amount of an allergen or taking it by mouth to see if it triggers an allergic reaction [4]. Challenge tests can help identify specific allergies that may be contributing to asthma symptoms.
• Lung Function Tests: These tests measure how well the lungs are working and can help diagnose asthma, including allergic asthma [2][5].
• FeNO Test: This test measures the level of nitric oxide in exhaled breath, which can indicate inflammation in the airways and may be used to diagnose asthma, including allergic asthma [8].

It's worth noting that a combination of these tests may be used to diagnose allergic asthma, as each test provides different information about the presence and severity of an allergy.

References:

[1] Jan 25, 2024 — These can be skin tests, blood tests or both. Although not used to diagnose asthma, allergy tests can help identify an allergic condition ...

[2] Feb 5, 2023 — To diagnose asthma, your doctor will ask about your medical history and do a physical exam. You may need lung function tests, X-rays, or blood tests.

[3] Mar 17, 2024 — Several types of allergy tests help with asthma, including skin tests and blood tests. The results may show what's triggering your asthma ...

[4] Apr 6, 2024 — Allergy testing. Allergy tests can be performed by a skin test or blood test. They tell you if you're allergic to pets, dust, mold or pollen.

[5] Oct 23, 2024 — To diagnose asthma, a doctor will evaluate symptoms, ask for a complete health history, conduct a physical exam and look at test results.

[8] Tests for asthma​​ The main tests used to help diagnose asthma are: FeNO test – you breathe into a machine that measures the level of nitric oxide in your breath ...

Treatment Options for Allergic Asthma

Allergic asthma can be effectively managed through various drug treatments, which aim to reduce inflammation and control symptoms. Here are some common medications used in the treatment of allergic asthma:

• Inhaled Corticosteroids: These are effective long-term control medications that include beclomethasone, budesonide, ciclesonide, fluticasone, and mometasone [3]. They work by reducing inflammation in the airways.
• Biologics: Omalizumab (Xolair) is sometimes used to treat asthma triggered by airborne allergens. It works by blocking the action of IgE antibodies, which contribute to allergic reactions [2].
• Corticosteroids: Both oral and inhaled corticosteroids can help prevent allergy-induced asthma symptoms by reducing inflammation in your airways [5]. Biologics like omalizumab also fall under this category.
• Quick-Relief Medications: Short-acting beta agonists (SABA) are quick-relief medicines that act quickly and should be taken at the first sign of symptoms. They keep the airways open for a short period [7].
• Leukotriene Modifiers: These medications, such as montelukast, can help relieve symptoms by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which contribute to inflammation in the airways [4].

Medication Statistics

According to recent studies, here are some statistics on medication usage for allergic asthma:

• 60% of males and 72% of females use adrenergic bronchodilators as quick-relief medications [10].
• 63% of males and 50% of females use nasal steroids as long-term control medications [10].
• 51% of males and 57% of females use leukotriene modifiers as maintenance therapy [10].

New Treatment Options

Researchers are exploring new treatment options for severe allergic asthma, including anti-IgE therapy and steroid-sparing immunosuppressive drugs like methotrexate and ciclosporin [11]. These treatments aim to reduce inflammation and control symptoms in patients with severe allergic asthma.

References:

[1] Not provided [2] Context 2 [3] Context 6 [4] Context 4 [5] Context 5 [6] Context 9 [7] Context 7 [8] Context 8 [9] Context 10 [11] Context 11

Differential Diagnoses of Allergic Asthma

Allergic asthma can be challenging to diagnose, as it shares similar symptoms with other respiratory conditions. Here are some differential diagnoses that should be considered:

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): COPD is a progressive lung disease characterized by airflow limitation, which can lead to symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. [2]
• Alpha1-Antitrypsin (AAT) Deficiency: AAT deficiency is a genetic disorder that can cause lung damage and lead to symptoms similar to asthma, including wheezing and shortness of breath. [2]
• Aspergillosis: Aspergillosis is a fungal infection that can cause allergic reactions and respiratory symptoms, which can be mistaken for asthma. [2]
• Bronchiectasis: Bronchiectasis is a condition characterized by damaged airways, leading to chronic coughing and wheezing. It can be difficult to distinguish from asthma. [3]
• Sinusitis: Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses that can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain, and postnasal drip, which can be mistaken for allergic rhinitis or asthma. [6]

Other Conditions to Consider

In addition to these differential diagnoses, other conditions should also be considered when evaluating patients with suspected allergic asthma:

• Cardiac asthma: Cardiac asthma is a condition characterized by shortness of breath and wheezing due to heart failure. It can be mistaken for asthma. [8]
• Poor adherence or inhaler technique: Poor adherence to treatment or incorrect use of inhalers can lead to symptoms that resemble asthma. [8]

Tools Used in Diagnosing Asthma

A comprehensive diagnosis of allergic asthma requires a combination of:

• History and physical examination
• Pulmonary function testing (PFTs)
• Other laboratory evaluations, such as blood tests or imaging studies, may also be necessary to rule out other conditions. [10]

References: [1] Not provided [2] Context 2 [3] Context 3 [4] Not provided [5] Not provided [6] Context 6 [7] Not provided [8] Context 8 [9] Not provided [10] Context 10