Monsoon Triggers: Allergic vs Non-Allergic Asthma- Key Signs, Symptoms And Treatment to Know

Asthma is a type of lung disease that makes it difficult for individuals to breathe by causing problems like muscle tightening and inflammation around the airways. It is a serious disease and can affect anyone irrespective of their age. Mostly onset of asthma is more likely to develop in childhood. In monsoon, asthma can be minor for some and for some it may cause hurdles in their daily lifestyle, leading to asthma attacks. One might experience symptoms like difficulty in breathing, shortness of breath, especially while talking, coughing, wheezing, tightness in the chest, frequent respiratory infection, and sleeplessness.

Dr Samir Garde, Director of Dept of Pulmonology and Lung Transplant, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel spoke to India.com and shared two different types of allergic asthma and non-allergic asthma that can usually occur during the rainy weather. Know its signs, symptoms and treatment for better understanding.

What is Allergic Asthma?

Allergic asthma is also known as atopic asthma. It is a type of asthma that is triggered by allergens like pollutants, dust particles, dirt, germs, bacteria, and viruses. It can be caused due to several environmental and genetic factors. Individuals with a family history of allergic asthma are at higher risk of developing asthma.

Symptoms And Treatment

One might experience symptoms like coughing which often gets worse at night, feeling pressure or discomfort in the chest, itching of eyes, stuffy nose, and frequently waking up at night. These symptoms can cause discomfort and lead to feelings of frustration and agitation. It can be triggered due to exposure to allergens causing inflammation and narrowing down the airways. It becomes essential to manage allergic asthma to reduce the intensity of the symptoms. To minimize the exposure to allergic asthma it becomes crucial to recognize and keep track of allergens that potentially trigger your asthma. If you are asthma is triggered by coming in close contact with pets then try staying away from pets for positive outcomes. Do not forget to take your prescribed medications, as not taking medicines on time can only worsen your condition. Taking medication on time can significantly reduce inflammation, and provide quick relief.

What is Non-allergic Asthma?

Non-allergic asthma is also known as nonatopic asthma. It is a type of asthma that is caused by other factors than allergens like stress, allergic reactions, chest infections, air pollution, dampness in the atmosphere, and habits like smoking.

Symptoms And Treatment

Non-allergic asthma could lead to symptoms like difficulty in talking due to shortness of breath, getting frequently affected by infections, feeling exhausted, breathing faster than usual, and wheezing. These symptoms can significantly impact individuals’ sleep leading to disruption in sleep. To manage non-allergic asthma avoid getting exposed to irritants like smoke, strong odors, air pollution, or cold air. Avoiding smoking can not only reduce the onset of asthma but also improve the quality of life. If your asthma is triggered by doing physical activities or exercises like walking, running, cardio, and hitting the gym, then consult your doctor. They can help you create a tailored fitness plan while considering your medical condition, and asthma symptoms for positive outcomes.

By understanding and addressing specific triggers associated with monsoon season, individuals can take proactive steps to manage asthma effectively. With careful planning, adherence to medication, and environmental control measures, it is possible to navigate this season while minimising respiratory discomfort and enjoying the benefits of the rainy weather safely.