Extrinsic Asthma vs. Intrinsic Asthma

Attribute	Extrinsic Asthma	Intrinsic Asthma
Trigger	External allergens (e.g. pollen, dust mites)	Internal factors (e.g. respiratory infections, exercise)
Onset	Usually develops in childhood or adolescence	Can develop at any age
Severity	Often more severe and persistent	Can be less severe and intermittent
Response to treatment	May respond well to avoiding triggers	May require ongoing medication management

Definition

Extrinsic asthma, also known as allergic asthma, is triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold. In contrast, intrinsic asthma, also known as non-allergic asthma, is not triggered by allergens but rather by factors such as exercise, cold air, stress, or respiratory infections.

Symptoms

Both types of asthma share common symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. However, individuals with extrinsic asthma may also experience symptoms such as itchy or watery eyes, runny nose, and sneezing due to their allergic reactions. On the other hand, individuals with intrinsic asthma may experience symptoms that are not related to allergies, such as fatigue or difficulty breathing during physical activity.

Onset

Extrinsic asthma often develops in childhood or adolescence and is commonly associated with a family history of allergies. Intrinsic asthma, on the other hand, tends to develop later in life, typically after the age of 30, and is not linked to a family history of allergies. The onset of intrinsic asthma may be triggered by factors such as smoking, obesity, or exposure to environmental pollutants.

Triggers

Extrinsic asthma is triggered by specific allergens that the individual is sensitive to, such as pollen, pet dander, or dust mites. Avoiding these allergens can help prevent asthma attacks in individuals with extrinsic asthma. Intrinsic asthma, on the other hand, is triggered by non-allergic factors such as exercise, cold air, stress, or respiratory infections. Managing stress, staying active, and avoiding respiratory infections can help prevent asthma attacks in individuals with intrinsic asthma.

Treatment

Treatment for both extrinsic and intrinsic asthma typically involves a combination of medications, such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids, to control symptoms and prevent asthma attacks. Individuals with extrinsic asthma may also benefit from allergen immunotherapy to reduce their sensitivity to specific allergens. In contrast, individuals with intrinsic asthma may need to focus on managing their non-allergic triggers, such as stress or respiratory infections, in addition to taking medications.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with extrinsic asthma is generally good, especially if they are able to identify and avoid their specific allergens. With proper management and treatment, individuals with extrinsic asthma can lead normal, active lives. Intrinsic asthma, on the other hand, may be more challenging to manage due to the variety of non-allergic triggers that can cause asthma attacks. However, with proper medical care and lifestyle modifications, individuals with intrinsic asthma can also lead fulfilling lives.