What is allergic asthma and how to determine it

Allergic asthma: what is it?

Allergic asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways caused by an immune response to allergens. It is manifested by bouts of choking, coughing, and airway obstruction. In this article, we will look at the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of allergic bronchial asthma.

Allergic asthma is characterized by an increased sensitivity of the airways to various allergens, such as dust, pollen particles, animals, mold and food products. The body perceives these substances as hostile and triggers an immune response that leads to constriction and inflammation of the airways. Allergic asthma symptoms in adults can vary in severity.

Causes of allergic asthma

Genetics play an important role in the development of allergic asthma. People with a hereditary predisposition are more likely to have the disease.

Environmental factors such as smoking, air pollution and humidity can contribute to the development of allergic asthma. In addition, poor diet, stress, and lack of exercise can also increase the risk of developing asthmatic allergies.

Symptoms of allergic asthma

The main signs of allergic asthma include choking attacks, wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. Symptoms may be intermittent or persistent and can be at worsen at night or after exposure to allergens.

Types of allergic asthma by severity

Allergic asthma can be classified by severity: mild, moderate or severe. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, asthma can affect a patient's quality of life and require different treatment approaches.

Diagnosis of allergic asthma

To diagnose allergic asthma, you should see an allergist.

• The doctor will gather a medical history to learn about symptoms, family history of allergies and asthma, and environmental factors. The physical examination includes a chest examination, assessment of breathing, and auscultation of the lungs.
• Spirometry and pykphluometry may be used to assess the volume and velocity of air passing through the airways. These tests can help confirm the diagnosis of asthma and determine the extent of airway obstruction.

Allergy tests

• Skin tests are a standard method of determining allergies to certain substances. In a skin test, the doctor applies small amounts of allergens to the patient's skin and observes the reaction.
• Blood tests - This test involves determining the level of allergen-specific IgE class antibodies in the patient's blood. The results of this test can help the doctor determine which allergens the patient is hypersensitive to.

Differential diagnosis

Allergic asthma differs from other types of asthma, such as non allergic asthma, exercise-related asthma, and occupational asthma. The distinguishing feature of allergic asthma is that it is caused by allergens. Additional tests and investigations may be needed to confirm the diagnosis of allergic asthma.

The doctor should also consider possible comorbidities, such as allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and chronic bronchitis, which may affect asthma symptoms or with an allergic component aggravate them.

Treatment of allergic asthma

The first step in treating allergic asthma is avoiding contact with allergens that cause symptoms. This may include using allergy protectors, improving indoor air quality, and limiting contact with pets.

Patients with allergic asthma are advised to monitor their condition regularly and have their symptoms monitored using a peakfluometer. This will allow exacerbations to be detected at an early stage and remedial measures to prevent them.

Drug treatment

Bronchodilators, such as salbutamol and terbutaline, are used to relieve bronchospasm and make breathing easier. They may be used in the form of inhalers or allergy pills for asthma.

Corticosteroids, such as beclomethasone, fluticasone and budesonide, are the main anti-inflammatory drugs for treating allergic asthma. They reduce inflammation and swelling of the airway mucosa.

Antihistamines such as cetirizine, loratadine and fexofenadine can be used to relieve allergic symptoms such as itching, runny nose and lacrimation. Montelukast is a medication that blocks the action of leukotrienes, substances that contribute to inflammation and constriction of the airways.

Immunotherapy

ASIT is a treatment method in which a patient is given gradually increasing doses of an allergen in order to desensitize him or her to it. This method can be effective for some patients with allergic asthma and can lead to a reduction in symptoms and the need for medication.

Biologic therapies

Biological therapies such as omalizumab and mepolizumab can be used to treat severe allergic asthma that does not respond to standard drug treatment. Omalizumab blocks immunoglobulin E (IgE), which plays a key role in the development of an allergic reaction, while mepolizumab targets interleukin-5 (IL-5), the cytokine responsible for activation of eosinophils, cells involved in allergic inflammation.

Prevention of exacerbations

The basis for preventing exacerbations is strict adherence to the doctor's recommendations, avoiding contact with allergens, and regular use of anti-asthmatic medications. It is also important to lead a healthy lifestyle, watch your diet, do physical activity, and avoid factors contributing to asthma exacerbations, such as stress and upper respiratory tract infections.

Allergic asthma is a chronic respiratory disease caused by allergic reactions to various allergens. It can significantly reduce patients' quality of life, but with the right approach to diagnosis, treatment and prevention, it is possible to achieve good symptom control and prevent exacerbations. It is important to see an allergist in a timely manner, strictly follow his recommendations and maintain a healthy lifestyle.