Immunoglobulin (Ig) E has been shown to be a major contributing factor for the development of bronchial hyperresponsiveness in asthma. An elevation in serum IgE levels contributes to asthma and is considered a potent predictor of the development of asthma.
Atopy, the genetic predisposition for the development of an immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated response to common aeroallergens, is the strongest identifiable predisposing factor for developing asthma.
Asthma is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and may produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, a whistling sound (wheezing) when you breathe out and shortness of breath.
Type 2 inflammation is a type of systemic allergic response that can result in increased asthma exacerbations and decreased lung function. Cytokines, which are proteins that signal the body's cells and begin an immune response, are major contributors to Type 2 inflammation.
The primary mechanisms responsible for excessive mucus in COPD are overproduction and hypersecretion by goblet cells and decreased elimination of mucus.
The main symptom of emphysema is shortness of breath, which usually begins gradually. You may start avoiding activities that cause you to be short of breath, so the symptom doesn't become a problem until it starts interfering with daily tasks. Emphysema eventually causes shortness of breath even while you're at rest.