Difference Between Allergic Asthma and Asthma?

Allergic asthma is triggered by specific allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, while regular asthma can be caused by non-allergic triggers such as exercise, cold air, stress, or respiratory infections.

The key distinction lies in what sets off the symptoms. Allergic asthma occurs when your immune system overreacts to airborne allergens, causing inflammation and narrowing of the airways. At Frontier Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, Dr. Reshamwala often sees patients whose asthma symptoms worsen during specific seasons or after exposure to particular substances like mold, cockroach waste, or environmental pollutants. This type of asthma typically responds well to allergy testing and immunotherapy treatments.

Non-allergic asthma, on the other hand, is triggered by factors that don’t involve the immune system’s allergic response. These triggers include physical exertion, weather changes, strong odors, smoke, or certain medications like NSAIDs. Both types can cause the same symptoms—chest tightness, wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing—but require different treatment approaches. Dr. Reshamwala’s comprehensive diagnostic process, including skin testing and pulmonary function tests, helps determine whether your asthma has an allergic component, allowing for more targeted and effective treatment plans.