The most common form of asthma is allergic asthma, which affects more than 10 million people in the United States, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Allergic asthma is an allergic condition that causes asthmatic symptoms in adults. The only difference between regular asthma and allergic asthma is the cause. Regular asthma is caused by environmental factors and physical activity while allergic asthma is triggered by airborne allergens such as dust, pollen or mold. Allergic asthma could result in a serious condition and should be treated by a doctor.
Cause
With allergy-induced asthma, airborne allergens are breathed in through the mouth or nose and cause inflammation in the breathing tubes, according to MayoClinic.com. If the body's immune system doesn't recognize a substance, it can cause a reaction that releases antibodies and histamine, leading to allergic reactions.
Symptoms
Asthma and allergy symptoms commonly coincide with one another, according to MayoClinic.com. Common allergy symptoms include sneezing, sinus congestion, postnasal drip, coughing, eye irritation, throat irritation and hives. Asthmatic symptoms include shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, lightheadedness and wheezing. An allergic reaction that causes asthma symptoms could lead to a life-threatening condition and should be evaluated by a doctor.
Treatment
Asthma caused by allergies can be managed by avoiding allergens and taking an over-the-counter antihistamine, according to the AAFA. Someone with allergies should talk with an allergist about participating in allergy testing. Allergy testing will determine the substances that cause an allergic reaction. Avoid those substances. Antihistamines are used to block the release of histamine in the body which can prevent the inflammation in the airways. When antihistamines don't work, bronchodilators are prescribed to treat an asthma attack, according to MayoClinic.com.
Difference
Adult asthma is different from childhood asthma because symptoms are more persistent in adult asthma, according to AAFA. An adult with asthma can experience consistent symptoms daily until treated. Use a doctor's recommended medications to manage asthma symptoms.
Warning
A sever allergic attack can lead to the airways completely swelling, cutting off the ability to breathe normally. Someone who becomes disoriented, confused, faints or vomits should call 911 for immediate medical attention. Remain under a doctor's care and disclose all asthma episodes to determine the best prevention and treatment options. People with allergy-induced asthma should develop an asthma emergency plan for severe reactions.
