Different Types of Asthma

Asthma is a respiratory disorder in which there is a chronic inflammation of the bronchial tubes in the lungs, making them swell and narrowing the airways. According to MedicineNet.com, there are two types of asthma: extrinsic and intrinsic.

Features

• Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing and wheezing, according to medterms.com, which notes that "without wheezing, it is not asthma."

Causes

• According to healthline.com, allergens or irritants such as smoke, pollen and dust usually trigger extrinsic asthma, which is the most common type. Exercise, illness and even weather can also bring on an asthma attack. Intrinsic asthma makes up only 10 percent of cases and typically occurs to women over 30 after a respiratory illness.

Significance

• Asthma is considered a serious, life-threatening disease. The American Lung Association estimates that 15 million Americans have it.

Treatment

• Asthma medications include inhaled corticosteroids and histamine blockers to reduce sensitivity to triggers and prevent attacks. Also, patients need a peak flow chart---measuring how fast they can exhale air---to monitor asthma control.

Prevention

• Asthmatics should avoid cold air as much as possible, says MedicineNet.com, as well as smoke, dust and pollen. More active changes removing carpeting from your home, frequently changing heat and air-conditioning filters, dusting regularly, and avoiding certain pets.