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Allergic Asthma

Allergic asthma

Overview of Allergic Asthma

Allergic asthma is a common type of asthma triggered by allergens. It involves the immune system reacting to otherwise harmless substances, such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, leading to inflammation and narrowing of the airways.

Causes and Triggers

The primary cause of allergic asthma is exposure to allergens. Common triggers include:

  • Pollen: From trees, grass, and weeds.
  • Dust Mites: Microscopic organisms found in household dust.
  • Pet Dander: Skin flakes, saliva, and urine from animals.
  • Mold: Spores from mold found in damp environments.
Symptoms

Symptoms of allergic asthma are similar to other types of asthma but are triggered by exposure to allergens. They include:

  • Wheezing: A whistling sound when breathing.
  • Shortness of Breath: Difficulty in breathing or a feeling of tightness in the chest.
  • Coughing: Often worse at night or early morning.
  • Chest Tightness: Discomfort or pressure in the chest.
Diagnosis

Diagnosing allergic asthma involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as:

  • Spirometry: Measures lung function.
  • Allergy Testing: Identifies specific allergens causing the reaction.
  • Peak Flow Measurement: Assesses the severity of asthma.
Treatment and Management

Managing allergic asthma focuses on controlling symptoms and avoiding triggers. Treatment options include:

  • Inhalers: Such as short-acting beta agonists (SABAs) for immediate relief and long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) for long-term control.
  • Anti-inflammatory Medications: Like corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
  • Allergy Medications: Antihistamines or leukotriene modifiers to control allergic reactions.
  • Immunotherapy: Allergy shots or sublingual tablets to build tolerance to allergens.
Preventive Measures

Preventive strategies are crucial in managing allergic asthma. These include:

  • Allergen Avoidance: Keeping living spaces clean and reducing exposure to known triggers.
  • Regular Monitoring: Keeping track of asthma symptoms and lung function.
  • Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise to strengthen respiratory health.