Allergic asthma is a type of asthma aggravated by an allergen. An allergen is a harmless substance that provokes a response from the immune system. Some people have oversensitive immune systems. This sensitive immune system is a genetic condition called atopy. Asthma is not the only medical condition caused by atopy. Hereditary atopy also makes people susceptible to eczema and allergies. People who have personal or family histories of eczema or allergies are at greater risk for allergic asthma.

Individuals with allergic asthma are sensitive to different substances. A substance that is an allergen or trigger for one person may not cause any symptoms in someone else with allergic asthma. Common symptoms of allergic asthma include tightness of the chest, wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Someone with allergic asthma may also experience symptoms such as watery eyes, eye irritation, congestion, sinus pressure, and runny nose.

There are some substances that often cause problems for people with allergic asthma. These common allergens are pollen, mold, dust mites, allergens from cockroaches, chemicals, smoke, fumes, and some medications. If a person with allergic asthma has identified what triggers are causing their asthma symptoms, they should try to limit their exposure to those triggers. Humidity can provoke asthma symptoms in someone with allergic asthma due to higher levels of mold spores in the air during humid weather. Humid weather also increases the body’s demand for oxygen.

Avoiding allergens can greatly reduce the asthma symptoms. Someone with allergic asthma should also see a doctor to be properly diagnosed and obtain asthma medication necessary for effective asthma management. Even if the person feels that their symptoms are not too bad, the person with asthma should consult a doctor about asthma. Asthma is a potentially fatal medical condition that should not be taken lightly. A person who has had mild asthma symptoms could have a life-threatening asthma attack.

A physician may order asthma testing such as a lung function test, also called a pulmonary function test. The doctor may want to do allergy testing to identify allergens in addition to the usual asthma testing. Asthma medication for allergic asthma can decrease the asthma symptoms and reduce the risk of having an asthma attack. An asthma inhaler may be used at the time the person is experiencing symptoms. Long-acting asthma medications are taken daily to help prevent asthma symptoms. With proper treatment, someone with allergic asthma may lead a normal life.