Allergy & Asthma

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Allergic Asthma

Also called: Bronchial Asthma, Allergic Rhinobronchitis, Allergic Bronchitis, Combined Allergic Rhinitis & Asthma Syndrome

- Summary
- About allergic asthma
- Potential causes and risk factors
- Related conditions for allergic asthma
- Signs and symptoms
- Diagnosis methods
- Treatment and prevention
- Ongoing research
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Marc J. Sicklick, M.D., FAAAAI, FACAAI

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Potential causes and risk factors

Allergies are considered a risk factor for allergic asthma. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), most people with asthma also suffer from other allergic disorders. Allergies may be caused by any substance and result in a variety of different symptoms. Allergies are caused by the body producing an antibody (IgE) that is directed at the allergen. The antibody triggers the body to release histamines that produce the allergic reaction. Allergens that commonly trigger allergic asthma include:

Cockroach debris
Pollen
Mold
Animal dander
Dust and dust mites

People with allergic rhinitis (hay fever) are particularly at risk for developing allergic asthma. This is because hay fever symptoms, such as a stuffy nose, often cause people to breathe through their mouths. The nasal passages are lined with tiny hair-like structures called cilia that act like filters, preventing harmful particles from entering the body. When people breathe through their mouths, these filters are bypassed and particles can proceed directly to the lower respiratory system (e.g., lungs). New research is examining the occurrence of the three diseases and the overlap between patients with one or more of these diseases. There are high risk factors for patients with allergic rhinitis to develop asthma due to the physical relationship between the upper and lower airways of the respiratory tract. Allergic rhinitis may cause patients to breathe through the mouth instead of the nose which prevents the natural filtering of air through the nose, and contributes to the inhalation of allergens into the lower airways.

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Review Date: 12-05-2006

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Allergy & Asthma

Allergic Asthma

Test Your Knowledge

Potential causes and risk factors

Related Health Topics

Advice from Dr. Nancy Snyderman

Living with Ulcerative Colitis