Allergic asthma
What is allergic asthma?
Allergic asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that occurs when the immune system overreacts to exposure to allergens in the environment. This reaction leads to inflammation of the airways, causing them to narrow and making it difficult for air to pass through.
It is the most common form of asthma, especially in children and young adults, and often exists alongside other allergic diseases such as rhinitis or conjunctivitis. Although it can be controlled with appropriate treatment, if it is not treated correctly, it can reduce quality of life and increase the risk of severe asthma attacks.
What triggers it?
Allergic asthma is triggered by inhaling particles that the body identifies as threats. The most common allergens include:
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Tree, grass and weed pollens.
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House dust mites.
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Animal epithelia (dander, saliva, hair).
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Mould spores in humid environments.
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Certain chemicals or irritants (perfumes, pollution, etc.).
Additionally, certain factors such as respiratory infections, physical exercise or sudden changes in temperature can aggravate the symptoms.
What happens to the lungs?
Upon exposure to an allergen, the airways (bronchi) become inflamed and more sensitive. This causes:
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The contraction of the muscles surrounding the bronchi.
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Excessive mucus production.
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Inflammation and thickening of the bronchial mucosa.
This causes shortness of breath, a feeling of tightness and the typical "whooshing" or whistling sound when exhaling.
Symptoms of allergic asthma
Symptoms can vary in severity and frequency, but the most common ones are:
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Persistent cough, especially at night or when exercising.
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Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
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Whistling or noises when exhaling (wheezing).
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Tightness or heaviness in the chest.
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Nocturnal awakenings due to choking or coughing.
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Fatigue or decreased physical performance.
Symptoms may appear intermittently or continuously and are worse during flare-ups or "asthma attacks".
Diagnosis of allergic asthma
The diagnosis should be made by an allergist or pulmonologist, and usually includes:
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A detailed medical history, identifying symptoms and triggers.
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Pulmonary function tests (spirometry) to measure respiratory capacity.
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Allergy tests (skin or specific IgE tests) to identify the allergen.
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Bronchodilator test to confirm the reversibility of the condition.
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In some cases, bronchial challenge tests.
A correct diagnosis makes it possible to personalise the treatment and reduce the occurrence of attacks.
Treatment and control of allergic asthma
The aim of the treatment is to maintain control of the symptoms and prevent exacerbations. Key strategies include:
1. Avoiding the allergen.
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Reducing exposure to the trigger (using anti-dust mite covers, avoiding animals, controlling pollen, etc.).
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Keeping rooms well ventilated, free of humidity and smoke.
2. Pharmacological treatment
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Rescue inhalers (bronchodilators): relieve acute symptoms.
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Maintenance inhalers (inhaled corticosteroids): control inflammation in the long term.
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Antihistamines or antileukotrienes: based on a medical assessment.
3. Specific immunotherapy
When the allergen has been clearly identified and conventional medicine is unable to control the symptoms, immunotherapy can help to reduce sensitivity to the allergen and improve the course of asthma.
Tips for people with allergic asthma
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Always carry your rescue inhaler with you.
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Inform the people around you (school, work, family) about your condition and how to act if you have an attack.
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Have regular checks-ups with your specialist.
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Exercise carefully and with medical approval.
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Avoid tobacco smoke, sudden changes in temperature and polluted environments.
Who does it affect?
Allergic asthma can occur at any age, although it is more common in children, adolescents and young people with a personal or family history of allergic diseases. It often appears in conjunction with allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis; this is known as the "atopic march".
It occurs in both rural and urban environments, although exposure to pollution and household allergens makes it more likely to develop in urban settings.
