Asthma – Types, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation of the airways in the lungs, leading to breathing difficulties. These airways, responsible for transporting air to and from the lungs, become overly sensitive and swollen in people with asthma. This results in symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and labored breathing. Triggers for asthma can range from allergies and infections to physical activity.

Different Types of Asthma

Asthma is often categorized based on symptom severity, although overlap between types is common.

1. Mild Intermittent AsthmaSymptoms are infrequent and typically do not interfere with daily life. Individuals may only require quick-relief medication during occasional flare-ups.
2. Moderate Persistent AsthmaSymptoms occur more regularly throughout the year and can significantly impact daily activities. Treatment may involve long-term medications, such as oral corticosteroids.
3. Reactive Airway Disease (RAD)Common in children, RAD is often triggered by viral infections or allergens like pet dander or pollen. Symptoms are usually mild and include coughing, wheezing, and tightness in the chest.
4. Allergic RhinitisThis type causes inflammation in the nose and sinuses due to allergens. It is often linked with asthma and manifests as sneezing, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion.
5. Eosinophilic AsthmaTriggered by an overproduction of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell), this form leads to chronic cough and chest tightness.

Asthma Symptoms

• Frequent or worsening cough
• Wheezing when exhaling
• Difficulty breathing, especially with activity
• Sensation of chest pressure or tightness
• Mucus production during coughing

Treatment Strategies

Asthma management varies based on how severe the condition is. Mild cases may respond well to inhalers. For more serious cases requiring emergency care, treatment may include rescue medications such as albuterol, delivered via injection or nebulizer.

When these measures aren’t sufficient, alternative therapies or procedures may be needed to open airways. Inhaled corticosteroids are often the first line to reduce airway inflammation but are not effective for all patients and are not typically recommended for children under four due to potential growth impacts.

Other medications like leukotriene modifiers may help control swelling and inflammation by blocking certain inflammatory chemicals, easing symptoms like coughing and shortness of breath.

What Is Eosinophilic Asthma?

This asthma subtype is marked by high eosinophil levels in the lungs, leading to airway inflammation and restricted breathing. Eosinophils, which normally help fight infections, become overactive and contribute to airway swelling.

Eosinophilic Asthma Symptoms

• Coughing and wheezing
• Chest or throat tightness
• Trouble breathing
• Mucus production
• Feeling unusually tired

Diagnosis

1. Blood Tests– Elevated eosinophils may indicate eosinophilic asthma.
2. Symptom Review– Co-existing allergies may signal this form.
3. Skin Prick Testing– Identifies allergens but doesn’t specify triggers or severity.

Eosinophilic Asthma Treatment

Management involves reducing allergic inflammation. Treatment may include antihistamines, leukotriene modifiers, corticosteroids, and immune-modulating medications. Allergy shots may also be recommended over time.

If initial treatments are not enough, oral medications or mast cell stabilizers such as cromolyn sodium may be considered for severe cases.