If you frequently experience asthma attacks, you are acquainted with the often unexpected onset of a tight feeling in your chest, coughing, and difficulty getting your breath when something triggers an attack. Knowing what type of asthma you have can help you control, or even eliminate your attacks.



There are three major types of asthma, allergic, idiopathic, and mixed asthma.

1. Allergic asthma is usually caused by airborne and seasonal allergens. Typically, there is a family history of allergies, but not necessarily asthma. Once you are exposed to the allergen, it becomes a trigger for an asthma attack. By avoiding the allergen, the asthma is controlled. Children with this kind of asthma generally outgrow it by the time they reach puberty.

2. Idiopathic or non-allergic asthma is not related to any specific allergen or substance. Common triggers can include the common cold, exercise, emotions, a respiratory tract infection or environmental pollution. Food additives such as sulphites might also trigger this type of asthma. Over time, asthma attacks can become more frequent and severe. It could also develop into a more serious respiratory condition, such as chronic bronchitis, or emphysema.

3. Mixed asthma is a combination of the above types. It is the most commonly diagnosed kind of asthma.

4. Exercise induced asthma is not considered to be one of the basic types of asthma. It is common in people who have one of the above varieties. If you experience exercise induced asthma, your airway is reactive to certain conditions, and exercise acts as a trigger. Sometimes, the first symptom you have is suffering from shortness of breath when you exercise. You might ignore it, thinking that it is because you are out of shape, or haven't worked out for a while. You will find that you cannot build up your endurance because you remain short of breath after minimal exercise. Aerobic exercise, running, playing soccer or hockey, is most likely to trigger this type of asthma attack.

No matter what asthma type you suffer from, it can take control over your life. It determines how well you sleep at night, how much energy you have during the day, and how much enjoyment you get out of life. Understanding your asthma type puts you back in control, and helps you prevent those episodes.