Which type of asthma is characterized by symptoms triggered by viral respiratory infections?

The type of asthma characterized by symptoms triggered by viral respiratory infections is classified as extrinsic asthma. This form of asthma is often associated with specific environmental allergens, but one of its notable features is the susceptibility to exacerbations when exposed to viruses, particularly respiratory infections like the common cold. These viral infections can lead to inflammation and increased hyperreactivity of the airways, which is why individuals with extrinsic asthma may experience worsened symptoms during or following such infections.

Intrinsic asthma, on the other hand, is typically not related to allergens or external triggers and can often be linked to non-allergic factors such as stress, exercise, or environmental changes. Exercise-induced asthma often occurs during physical activity and is not specifically linked to viral infections, while seasonal asthma usually refers to asthma symptoms that are predominantly triggered by pollen or seasonal changes, rather than viral pathogens. Therefore, extrinsic asthma encompasses the link between viral infections and asthma exacerbations, making it the accurate choice in this context.