Asthma is a chronic lung disease. It affects your airways, the tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. The airways of people with asthma become inflamed and narrowed. This triggers wheezing, coughing, and tightness in the chest. When these symptoms get worse than usual, it is called an asthma attack or flare-up.

The Global Asthma Report 2022, prepared by Global Asthma Network, shows that about 35 million people suffer from asthma in India.

It is often observed that patients with asthma and allergy mostly worry about managing symptoms. So, they take over the counter medications or rely on only prescribed medications. However, many experts opine that a holistic approach that involves lifestyle factors can lead to a positive treatment against asthma and allergies.

Asthma triggers may be different for each person and can change over time. Let’s understand the key differences between allergic asthma and non-allergic asthma and how to manage these two.

1. Allergic Asthma

Allergic asthma is the most common type of asthma, triggered by allergens such as pet dander, mold, dust mites, pollen from grass, trees, and weeds, waste from pests such as cockroaches and mice.

Symptoms of Allergic Asthma:

• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
• Chest tightness

How to Manage Allergic Asthma?

The best way is to avoid all sorts of known allergens like dust mites, pollen from grass, trees and weeds, waste from pests like cockroaches and mice. It is advisable to use inhaled corticosteroid and also keep handy antihistamines and allergy shots (immunotherapy), to control and take immediate action.

2. Non-Allergic Asthma

Non-allergic asthma is not triggered by allergens but by factors such as stress, exercise, cold air, respiratory infections,

certain medicines, household chemicals and tobacco smoke.

Symptoms of Non-Allergic Asthma:

• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
• Chest tightness

How to manage non-allergic asthma?

Identify and avoid all forms triggers and use inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators.

Common tips to manage both Allergic Asthma and Non-Allergic Asthma:

• Get good sleep and relaxation.
• Maintain body weight in a healthy range.
• Eat fresh fruits and vegetables and lean meats.
• Do mild or moderate exercise every day.
• Keep windows and doors closed on days when pollen counts are high and air quality is poor.
• Consult your physician frequently.
• Take medications as prescribed and ensure you don’t run out of medicines.

Proper understanding of different types of asthma is crucial for effective management and treatment. If you suspect you have asthma or your current treatment isn't working, consult with a qualified healthcare provider, get proper diagnosis and work out an effective management plan. Identifying and understanding your specific type of asthma, plays a significant role in taking control of your condition and improving your quality of life.