Types of Allergic Asthma

Allergic asthma can be broadly classified into two types:

- Seasonal allergic asthma: This type occurs due to exposure to seasonal allergens like pollen and mold spores. Symptoms usually occur during certain times of the year when these allergens are most prevalent. For example, grass pollen typically triggers asthma attacks in spring and early summer.

- Perennial allergic asthma: This occurs due to exposure to perennial allergens like dust mites, cockroaches, and pet dander that are present all year round. Symptoms are often persistent and may not show a clear seasonality. Perennial allergic asthma is more common than seasonal allergic asthma.

Current Treatment Options

The main goals of treating Allergic Asthma Therapeutics are to control symptoms, prevent asthma attacks, and enhance the patient's quality of life. Currently available treatment options include:

- Short acting beta2-agonists: Medications like albuterol and levalbuterol provide quick relief from asthma symptoms but have to be taken every 4-6 hours as needed.

- Inhaled corticosteroids: Drugs like fluticasone and budesonide help reduce airway inflammation and are the mainstay of long-term asthma control. However, they provide no rapid relief during attacks.

- Leukotriene modifiers: Montelukast and zafirlukast block the action of leukotrienes, chemicals released during an asthma attack. They help in long-term control when used along with inhaled corticosteroids.

- Long-acting beta2-agonists: Formoterol and salmeterol provide overnight and up to 12 hours of relief when taken twice daily. They help improve lung function and are often combined with inhaled corticosteroids.

- Anti-IgE therapy: Omalizumab targets immunoglobulin E (IgE) which plays a key role in allergic asthma. It is recommended for patients with moderate-severe allergic asthma who do not adequately respond to inhaled corticosteroids.

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