Besides making you feel miserable, you may wonder what allergies and asthma have in common. A lot, as it turns out since the two often go hand in hand. Substances such as dust, pet dander, pollen, and perfume that trigger hay fever can also cause asthma signs and symptoms. For some people, food allergies can also cause asthma symptoms. Asthma triggered by an allergy is called allergic asthma or allergy-induced asthma. Below is more insight into Bastrop asthma & allergies, including answers to the most frequently asked questions.
How do allergic reactions cause asthma?
An allergic reaction occurs when antibodies mistakenly identify a harmless substance such as pollen or pet dander as a foreign object or invader. Your immune system attempts to protect your body from the substance by releasing certain chemicals. The chemicals that your immune system releases cause allergy signs and symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny nose, nasal congestion, and skin reactions. Sometimes the same reaction can also affect the airways and lungs, causing asthma symptoms.
Are allergies and asthma treated differently?
Most treatments are used to treat either allergies or asthma. But there are a few treatments that help both conditions. Examples include:
Allergy shots: Allergy shots gradually reduce your immune-system response to specific allergy triggers and can help treat asthma. This treatment involves regular injections of a tiny amount of the allergens that trigger your symptoms. Immunotherapy causes your immune system to build up a tolerance to the allergens over time, and your allergic reactions diminish. When your allergic reactions reduce, your asthma symptoms decrease as well. For the best outcome, healthcare providers recommend regular injections over some time.
Leukotriene modifier: Leukotriene modifier is a daily pill that can ease the symptoms of allergic rhinitis and asthma. It works by controlling the chemicals your immune system releases during an allergic reaction. Healthcare providers use this medication to treat both asthma and allergic rhinitis.
Are allergies responsible for all ulcers?
Allergic asthma is quite common, but sometimes asthma can result from other triggers. For example, infections, exercise, stress, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and cold air can also trigger asthma. Most people with asthma have various triggers.
Who is at risk of allergic asthma?
Your risk of getting asthma is higher if you have hay fever or other allergies. A family history of asthma is also a significant risk factor for allergy-induced asthma.
How can I prevent allergic asthma?
Identifying substances that trigger your allergy and asthma symptoms and limiting your exposure is an important step. You also want to work with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment to manage your symptoms. It is vital to visit your doctor regularly since allergy and asthma symptoms can change over time; this means adjusting to treatment. Learning the signs that your asthma is flaring up and knowing what to do in such cases.
If your allergies and asthma occur together, visit your doctor at Pompeyo Chavez, MD, to know how you can manage your symptoms.