What type of asthma is characterized by a non-allergic cause?

Intrinsic asthma is characterized by factors that are not related to allergens. This type of asthma often develops in adults and is triggered by non-allergic stimuli such as respiratory infections, exercise, cold air, stress, and certain medications. Unlike extrinsic asthma, which is primarily caused by environmental allergens like pollen, pet dander, or dust mites, intrinsic asthma does not involve a direct immune response to these external triggers.

Occupational asthma specifically refers to asthma caused by exposure to substances in the workplace, and acute asthma denotes a sudden worsening of asthma symptoms rather than a type of asthma per se. These definitions support the recognition that intrinsic asthma is distinct due to its non-allergic nature, encompassing triggers that are generally intrinsic to the individual rather than external allergens.