Allergic Asthma

Allergic asthma, is a type of asthma, caused due to the inhalation of certain allergens, such as pollen, dust or danders. The most common type of asthma, it can be also triggered due to inhalation of smoke, fumes or some strong smell. Studies reveal that approximately 90% of children, while 50% of adults, with asthma have allergies.

Causes of Allergic Asthma

The immunoglobulin E portion of the immune system, in people with allergies, is very sensitive. In such cases, harmless substances, like pollens, are attacked by the immune system, assuming them to be a threat to the health. On encountering an allergen, the human body creates special cells known as IgE antibodies, which trigger the allergic reactions in the body. In this process, chemicals such as histamine, are released, resulting in swelling and inflammation. In case of allergic asthma, the airways in the human body are hypersensitive to allergens. Therefore, the immune system overreacts as soon as these allergen enters the airway. It leads to bronchospasm, a process in which the muscles around the airway are tightened. It also triggers inflammation and thick mucus flooding of the airway. The allergens, which can trigger allergic asthma, are minute particles which travel to the lungs when a person inhales. Some common allergens are pollen blown by the wind, animal dander, feces of dust mites or cockroaches, animal saliva, mold fragments etc

Allergic Asthma Symptoms

The symptoms of allergic asthma can vary from person to person. And, a same person may show different symptoms in two different episodes of asthma. A person suffering from allergic asthma may experience difficulty in breathing, skin rashes, coughing, tightening of the chest, frequent cold, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, respiratory tract infection and headache. Depression, fatigue, muscle spasms are also common symptoms in this sickness.

Diagnosis for Allergic Asthma

Allergy and asthma tests are recommended to determine the cause of allergic asthma. The most common tests for allergic asthma involve pricking the skin with little amounts of allergen, and measuring the size of the red bumps that occur 20 minutes later. The blood tests recommended for diagnosis of allergic asthma are radioallergosorbent test (RAST) and the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Allergic Asthma Treatment

Although, it's not possible to completely eliminate allergic asthma, it can be avoided. Once the cause is determined, then steps can be taken to reduce exposure to the allergens. Medications meant to treat allergy can provide relief from allergic asthma symptoms. Nonsedating antihistamines, like generic Claritin, or decongestant nasal sprays can be used to tackle nasal allergies. If the desired effects are not seen, then nasal steroid sprays and stronger antihistamines, which should be prescribed by the doctor, can be used. If the problem still persists, then an immunotherapy i.e. allergy shots, can be recommended. Inhaled steroids, asthma inhalers, bronchodilators and medicines like Singulair and Accolate pills are prescribed to control asthma. In case of severe asthma attacks, steroids such as Prednisone are administered. Another effective medicament for allergic asthma is Xolair, an injectable medicinal drug meant to reduce IgE levels.

Do not use old air conditioners. Pets should be kept outdoors, if any individual of the household is allergic to them. Wash blankets, curtains and carpets with hot water once a week. Make sure that the kitchen and bathroom are free from insects like cockroaches or termites. Such simple precautions can ensure your safe health, keeping allergic asthma as well as other diseases at bay.