Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects the airways in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. It often leads to coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. The two main categories are extrinsic (allergic asthma) and intrinsic (non-allergic asthma).
Allergies play a major role in many asthma cases, which is why tools such as allergy testing (IgE and IgG), food sensitivity evaluations, and gut health assessments for leaky gut syndrome are often part of effective care. Asthma is also closely linked with eczema, a skin condition that commonly appears alongside allergies and asthma. Understanding these connections helps people identify triggers, improve long-term control, and build a more complete asthma action plan.
Extrinsic asthma, also called allergic asthma, happens when an allergy is the main trigger. The body reacts to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, or certain foods, leading to airway inflammation. People with this type often also have other allergic conditions, such as hay fever or eczema.
When allergens enter the body, the immune system treats them as harmful. This causes swelling in the airways, narrowing the tubes that carry air and lowering lung function. Symptoms may include coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Because allergic asthma is closely tied to allergies, treatment often includes inhalers, long-term control medications, and allergy-focused strategies to reduce exposure.
Intrinsic asthma is not caused by allergies. Instead, it is often triggered by cold air, stress, respiratory infections, exercise, or fumes. Adults are more likely to have this type, though it can affect people of any age.
The exact cause is not fully understood, but genetics, airway sensitivity, and environmental exposures are thought to play roles. Since triggers are not always obvious, managing intrinsic asthma can sometimes be harder than managing allergic asthma.
Although extrinsic and intrinsic asthma have different causes, they share the same core symptoms:
Severe or uncontrolled asthma may lead to dangerous attacks, so monitoring symptoms and adjusting treatment is important.
Risk factors for both types include family history, secondhand smoke, pollution, and chronic conditions such as eczema.
Many people with asthma also have eczema, a skin condition that causes dryness and itching. This overlap is part of the “atopic triad,” where asthma, eczema, and allergies often occur together. These conditions share similar immune responses, which explains why people with eczema are more likely to also experience asthma or allergic symptoms.
Problems with the skin or gut barrier can make the body more reactive to allergens. For example, eczema allows irritants to trigger stronger immune reactions, while gut issues such as leaky gut may worsen both allergy and asthma symptoms. Managing eczema and allergies alongside asthma can improve overall control and reduce flare-ups.
Since many asthma cases are linked to allergies, identifying sensitivities is key to long-term control. Allergic asthma may be triggered not only by environmental allergens but also by certain foods.
Doctors may recommend:
Another factor is leaky gut syndrome, where the gut lining becomes more permeable. This can allow food particles to enter the bloodstream and trigger immune responses, worsening asthma and eczema. Supporting gut health with nutrition, probiotics, and lifestyle changes may lower inflammation and improve symptom control.
Asthma cannot be cured, but it can be managed with the right plan. Treatment may include:
Consistent treatment not only reduces the risk of severe attacks but also supports long-term lung and immune health.
A key part of asthma control is recognizing personal triggers. For some, pollen, dust, or food sensitivities cause flare-ups, while for others, stress, exercise, or respiratory infections play a bigger role. Keeping a symptom diary can help connect daily habits and exposures with asthma symptoms, allowing doctors to adjust treatment more precisely.
Identifying triggers early also prevents small irritations from turning into severe attacks. Tools like allergy testing (IgE and IgG), food elimination diets, and even gut health evaluations can provide more clarity on what worsens asthma. With this information, patients can avoid or reduce exposure to known triggers, making long-term asthma management more effective and personalized.
Asthma is a lifelong condition, but with the right care, it can be controlled. Whether your symptoms are tied to allergies, eczema, or non-allergic triggers, finding and addressing the root cause is essential for long-term relief and better breathing.
At 417 Integrative Medicine, we offer asthma evaluations, allergy and food sensitivity testing (IgE and IgG), gut health support for issues like leaky gut, and care for skin conditions connected to asthma. Our team also creates personalized asthma action plans designed to prevent flare-ups and improve daily life. With a complete and integrative approach, you can reduce risks, manage symptoms, and enjoy a better quality of life. Contact us today to learn more about your treatment options.
