What is asthma?

4) Types of asthma

There are two types of asthma:

Extrinsic asthma Intrinsic asthma
This type of asthma is associated with and triggered by allergens. It is sometimes known as allergic asthma. Your immune system reacts to what would normally be a harmless substance by increasing antibodies increasing mucous and makes airways narrow and become inflamed.

    It can be associated with :

  • Pollens.
  • Dust mites.
  • Pet dander.
 This is a non allergic, non seasonal form of asthma which usually first occurs in adulthood. Substances irritate the airways.

    It is associated with :

  • Chemicals such as cleaning products, aerosols, air fresheners.
  • Exercise induced.
  • Environmental pollution or cigarette smoke.
  • Extremes of cold or very hot weather.
  • Emotional extremes – such as laughing, stress.

Intrinsic and extrinsic asthma

Whichever your type of asthma, most people can live a normal life if they have the right treatment and medication as prescribed by your doctor. Get to know your asthma symptoms and any triggers which make your symptoms worse. Then you can treat the problem early to get the best results. The majority of people with asthma can be symptom free and live a normal life. If your asthma is more difficult to control your respiratory specialists can help.