A Look at the Kinds of Asthma

According to experts, asthma is related to the genetic makeup of the individual suffering from it. For example, if your parents and siblings suffer from asthma, you’re also at risk of developing the condition. Therefore, if you have a history of asthma in your family, you need to do everything you can to keep this problem from developing. As well, in western societies, air quality is increasingly poor which also contributes to the condition.

There are actually a number of preventative means to forestall the attacks. Do your best to collect as much information as you can about asthma so that you can be well aware of the signs and symptoms of the condition. The more you know about asthma, the better you can prevent an attack and make sure you're getting appropriate asthma treatment.

There are two different kinds of asthma, extrinsic and intrinsic.

Extrinsic Asthma: The majority of asthma patients in various parts of the globe suffer from the extrinsic form. Children in particular are highly susceptible to certain allergies and so it's much more common for them to develop extrinsic asthma. Kids with a history of allergies, eczema, and hay fever are more inclined to develop extrinsic asthma. However, as they get older, the allergies and asthma attacks tend to fade away. There could come a time when the allergies return due to certain triggers, but this typically occurs when the child has become an adult.

Intrinsic Asthma: Intrinsic asthma is different from the extrinsic kind because it usually occurs among women in their late 20s or early 30s. This form of asthma is chronic and perennial, and is not associated with childhood allergies. You will need to visit a doctor in order to determine if you have intrinsic asthma. The doctor will check your medical history, especially that of the respiratory tract infections.

Now that you are aware of the two kinds of asthma, you need to determine which type you have. Be aware that only a trained physician can accurately diagnose your condition. Even if you discover a lot of information concerning asthma, you should still depend on your doctor’s findings. He or she will conduct a number of tests in order to diagnose the condition. If you’re experiencing asthma-like symptoms, visit your doctor immediately.

Your doctor will also attempt to classify or categorize the intensity of the condition. Some patients have moderate attacks while others experience severe asthma attacks. Approximately 30 percent of asthma patients experience mild attacks.

The doctor will give you medication that provides fast acting, short-term relief. It prevents the attacks from becoming worse. Some doctors prescribe other medications for asthma if the attacks are allergy-induced. By taking the medications, the immune system and the body will not react to the allergens.

Talk to your doctor about the asthma symptoms you’re experiencing. Don’t wait until you have a severe asthma attack. You must do this especially if you’re at risk of developing the disease. Why wait until things get out of hand? Many people die because of asthma every year. You can effectively manage and control this condition. Don’t hesitate to call your doctor next time you experience asthma symptoms. Health conditions that are identified and treated early are more effectively managed.