Non-allergic asthma

Overview

Non-allergic asthma is a type of asthma that is not triggered by allergens. Unlike allergic asthma, which is caused by exposure to allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander, non-allergic asthma is triggered by other factors such as exercise, cold air, stress, smoke, and viral infections. This type of asthma is typically diagnosed in adults over the age of 30, and it is more common in women than in men.

Symptoms

The symptoms of non-allergic asthma are similar to those of allergic asthma and can include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. However, these symptoms are not triggered by allergens. Instead, they can be triggered by a variety of non-allergic factors. These triggers can vary from person to person, but common triggers include cold air, exercise, smoke, strong odors, and respiratory infections.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing non-allergic asthma can be more challenging than diagnosing allergic asthma because the triggers are not as easily identified. The diagnosis process typically involves a physical examination, a review of medical history, and lung function tests. In some cases, a doctor may also recommend an allergy test to rule out allergic asthma.

Treatment

The treatment for non-allergic asthma is similar to the treatment for allergic asthma. It typically involves the use of medications to control symptoms and prevent asthma attacks. These medications can include inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting beta agonists, and leukotriene modifiers. In some cases, a doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes to avoid triggers and manage symptoms.

Prevention

Preventing non-allergic asthma involves avoiding known triggers. This can include avoiding exposure to cold air, not smoking, and managing stress. Regular exercise can also help to improve lung function and reduce symptoms. However, it's important to note that exercise can also be a trigger for some people with non-allergic asthma, so it's important to talk to a doctor before starting a new exercise regimen.

Epidemiology

Non-allergic asthma is less common than allergic asthma, but it still affects a significant number of people. It is estimated that about 10 to 33 percent of all asthma cases are non-allergic. This type of asthma is more common in adults, particularly women, and it is often more severe than allergic asthma.