What should you know about intrinsic asthma?

Asthma narrows and irritates the airways, causing variable symptoms such as cough, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. The word intrinsic is often used when allergy testing or the history does not point to a clear allergen. It does not mean the symptoms are imagined, and people can have more than one type of trigger.

Non-allergic triggers can include viral infections, smoke, air pollution, exercise, cold or dry air, strong smells, stress, and some medicines. Allergic rhinitis or house dust mite allergy may coexist, so the full pattern matters. A clinician may use symptom history, breathing tests, and response to treatment when assessing asthma.

Use preventer and reliever medicines exactly as prescribed and keep an up-to-date action plan. Notice triggers, nighttime symptoms, activity limits, and how often relief medicine is needed. Reduce smoke and strong irritants where possible, and ask about inhaler technique at reviews. A nebuliser treatment may be used in some acute situations, but it does not replace a personalised long-term plan.

Seek urgent help if breathing is severely difficult, speaking is hard, lips look blue or grey, symptoms rapidly worsen, or your reliever is not providing the expected improvement. Sit upright, follow your written action plan, and use prescribed rescue treatment while seeking emergency care. Do not wait for a routine review during a severe flare-up.

Ask how your asthma was assessed, which triggers fit your pattern, and whether allergic rhinitis or another condition needs attention. Review inhaler technique, preventer use, exercise plans, and when to seek emergency help. Bring up persistent Cough, Wheezing, or Chest Tightness even if symptoms come and go.