Allergic asthma is another word for extrinsic asthma, indicating that allergic reactions to inhaled substances cause the lungs to become inflamed and swollen. Symptoms associated with extrinsic asthma include wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing and chest tightness. The most common inhaled allergens are pet dander, pollen, mold spores and dust mite allergens. Treatment of extrinsic asthma involves immediate relief of asthma symptoms and long-term control to prevent future attacks. Avoiding the substances and other triggers that exacerbate the symptoms is also important in the treatment of extrinsic asthma.
Short-acting Bronchodilators
The smooth muscles surrounding the airways can tighten in an asthma episode. Short-acting beta agonist bronchodilators relax the lung muscles, thus improving the airflow and immediately relieving the symptoms of asthma. Short-acting bronchodilators are effective for short-term immediate relief but they do not correct the inflammation of the airways. According to the National Jewish Health, side effects of short-acting may include increased heart rate, shakiness, nervousness or jittery feeling.
Inhaled Corticosteroids
Inhaled corticosteroids reduce airway swelling and excessive mucus in the lungs. Used as directed, inhaled corticosteroids is an effective long-term control for persistent asthma. Physicians may recommend the use of inhaled corticosteroids in combination with another drug to effectively control and treat the underlying causes of asthma. Side effects of inhaled corticosteroid use are not serious, notes MayoClinic.com, but can include mouth and throat irritation and oral yeast infections.
Long-acting Bronchodilators
Long-acting bronchodilators relax the constricted airway muscles and reduce the swelling for up to 12 hours. Hence, this type of bronchodilator is effective for controlling severe asthma and preventing nighttime attacks, describes MayoClinic.com. However, long-term bronchodilators are not recommended for immediate relief during an asthma attack, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. These medications have also been linked to severe asthma attack.
Leukotriene Modifiers
The newest class of drugs for long-term asthma control, leukotriene modifiers prevent the action of immune substances called leukotrienes which increase inflammation and cause the airway lining to swell and the airway muscles to tighten. Anti-leukotrienes can control mild persistent asthma and, in combination with inhaled corticosteroids, moderate to severe asthma, notes the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. Side effects may include dizziness, headache, indigestion or stomach upset, trouble sleeping and weakness.
