There are many different ways of classifying asthma. Based on the triggers that stimulate an attack, asthma can generally be classified into Extrinsic (allergic) asthma and Intrinsic (non-allergic) asthma. In addition to this, it can also be classified as nocturnal, occupational and seasonal asthma. Treatment is given based on the type of asthma that the patient is suffering from.
Extrinsic Asthma - This type of asthma is observed in almost 90% of the cases and mostly develops during childhood. It is caused by the reaction of our immune system in response to inhaled allergens such as pollen and dust mites. When a foreign particle [read allergen] enters our body, our immune system reacts by producing antibodies, which are used to fight against viruses and bacteria. Although these foreign particles may be harmless, but our body tries to defend against them and this results in extrinsic or allergic asthma. It is also known as Atopic asthma because of the instant reaction that it produces against allergens. People with this type of illness generally have a family history of allergies and suffer from allergy-related problems such as rhinitis, eczema and skin rashes. This type of asthma responds well to inhaled steroids which are used to suppress the allergic reaction.
Intrinsic Asthma – This asthma is not caused by allergy. The factors which can cause this disorder include inhalation of chemicals and cigarette smoke, chest infections, exercise, stress, weather conditions and cold air. No antibodies are produced but the airway nerves and muscles may be irritated because of their sensitivity in asthma patients. This asthma manifests itself in the form of constricted smooth muscles, airway inflammation and excessive mucus production. One should avoid using products giving out a strong odor or chemicals which can trigger an attack. If hot, cold, dry or humid air acts as a trigger, you should avoid such weather or conditions.
Mixed Asthma - This is a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic types in which attacks can be triggered by allergic as well as by other factors such as weather and chemicals.
Nocturnal Asthma – This asthma worsens at night time especially between 2 to 4 a.m. Patients with this disorder often fall asleep early due to exhaustion but wake up within a few hours due to difficulty in breathing. After taking medication and drinking some water, these patients try to go back to sleep. Such asthmatic patients are generally exhausted during the day and require frequent naps to continue working properly. Patients with this order are susceptible to death during early hours due to their high respiratory arrest.
Seasonal Asthma – These are caused by certain climatic conditions or by the release of pollen by grasses and flowers. For some patients, cold weather can trigger an attack while others could feel these symptoms during spring.
Occupational Asthma – This is noticed in people who have just begun industrial or occupational jobs. It develops in a few months of starting the job. Generally holidays or other tasks show improvement in symptoms. Common industrial irritants are chemical fumes, dust, glue fumes and leaves.
Bronchial Asthma – In this case, the airway muscles spasm and irritate the airway. This produces excessive mucus and causes breathing difficulties and wheezing. Attacks are generally caused by hypersensitivity to air-borne particles or allergens.
Exercise Induced Asthma – This is observed during or shortly after exercise with the patient wheezing and feeling breathless. As exercising is unpleasant, these persons avoid this activity often leading to lack of fitness. This can even lead to deterioration of the patient’s health.