The Immune System and Asthma 

Asthma occurs when the immune system is triggered to cause inflammation in the airways of the lungs. The rapid inflammation causes the airways to narrow leading to shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness. Inflammation is a normal part of many immune responses. The immune system induces an inflammatory response causing tissues and blood vessels to swell, allowing immune cells to get to the site of infection or injury. While inflammation is essential for many immune responses, it can also cause damage or if the immune system overreacts. 

In people with asthma, the immune system overreacts to environmental triggers that are generally of little to no harm to the human body, causing excess inflammation in the airways of the lungs. Asthma can be triggered by allergens, exercise, stress, respiratory viruses, and more. 

Allergic Asthma

Allergic or atopic asthma is the most common cause of asthma. The onset of an asthma attack in people with allergies starts much the same way as other triggers of asthma. Airborne allergens such as pollen or pet dander, are breathed in and trigger an immune response. This immune response triggers typical allergy symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose. However, in some people the immune response also triggers immune cells to accumulate in the lungs, triggering inflammation, and causing asthma symptoms.  

Both medication and avoiding allergens can help to manage asthma. Talk to a doctor or visit a health clinic to learn more about options for you.