Know How to Live with Asthma and Allergies

Do you know what is common between allergy and asthma? The substance that triggers an allergy can also cause asthma symptoms to occur. For example, substances such as dust, pollen, and air pollution can trigger allergic rhinitis, and these same substances can also lead to an asthma attack. Hence, an allergic reaction may lead to asthma and cause asthma symptoms to appear. Such asthma caused by an allergy is called allergic asthma.

Keep reading to learn more about how an allergy causes asthma, what allergic asthma symptoms are, and ways to manage it.

What is Allergic Asthma?

Allergic asthma is an asthma where symptoms are triggered by an allergic reaction. On exposure to an allergen, sometimes it becomes difficult to breathe because the immune system releases certain chemicals that affect your lungs and cause inflammation in your airways. Allergic asthma is the most common form of asthma with symptoms ranging from mild respiratory issues to severe allergic asthma attack. However, unlike other types of asthma, allergic asthma is caused by an allergy.

Symptoms of Allergic Asthma

Allergic reaction asthma symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other types of asthma. The following are the symptoms you will notice.

• Shortness of breath
• Fast breathing
• Coughing
• Weezing
• Chest tiredness

In addition to these symptoms, there will be symptoms of allergy as well like,

• Skin rashes and itching
• Stuffy nose
• Watery and itchy eyes
• Congestion
• Flakey skin

In severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), the following symptoms will also be there.

• Hives
• Swollen face, lips, tongue, and throat 
• Tingling in mouth

Causes of Allergic Asthma

As allergic asthma is induced by an allergy, inhaling the allergens is what causes allergies and asthma symptoms. Knowing which allergens can trigger an asthma allergic reaction can help you prevent it.

1. Animals or Pets

Many people are allergic to animal fur, saliva, and pet dander (skin flakes). All these things can cause allergic asthma.

2. Pollens

When trees, grass, weeds and flowers release their pollens in the environment in the spring season, it triggers an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to pollens and seasonal changes. 

3. Dust

Dust is everywhere and it contains microscopic organisms called dust mites. These dust mites are allergens that trigger symptoms of asthma and allergies in some people.

4. Mould

Places that are humid or have trapped moisture develop mould which releases spores in the air. These spores can cause allergies and also trigger asthma symptoms.

5. Cockroaches

Cockroaches are found everywhere, especially in old buildings or places with poor ventilation. Cockroach droppings can cause allergic asthma.

In addition to these allergens, certain foods can also trigger allergic asthma such as milk, shellfish, soy products, peanuts etc. If you have allergic asthma, note that certain irritants can further cause inflammation in your airway and make your symptoms worse such as air pollution, aerosol cleaning products, fire smoke, and strong odours.

>> Also Read: Does Your Health Insurance Provide Coverage for Asthma Treatment?

Diagnosis and Treatment for Allergic Asthma

If you are having symptoms of both asthma and allergy, you will have to undergo tests to confirm. An allergist skin test is the best way to check for allergies. Along with an allergy test, you will need to undergo a lung function test to confirm asthma. There are different types of lung function tests such as spirometry, peak flow, etc. Your doctor will prescribe a test according to your symptoms.

Once the diagnosis is completed, your doctor will suggest a suitable allergic asthma treatment option that involves allergy treatment. Here are some effective treatment options,

Medicines for Allergy

Medicines for asthma treatment include over-the-counter medicines for treating the symptoms of allergy such as antihistamines, decongestants and nasal sprays.

Medicines for Allergic Asthma

There are different types of medicines which are used in the treatment of allergic asthma.

• Steroids help in reducing inflammation. 
• Beta-agonists help in relaxing the airways. Short-acting or long-acting beta-agonist medicines are prescribed along with steroids to ease the symptoms of allergic asthma. 
• Leukotriene modifiers are used to reduce allergic asthma cough and are helpful in both allergy and asthma.

These medicines can be taken orally, or by using an inhaler for allergies. Consult your doctor to know the best allergy meds for asthma according to your symptoms.

Immunotherapy

It exposes your immune system to allergens regularly so that your body becomes resistant to the allergens over some time. Immunotherapy is delivered through allergy shots or medicines that build your tolerance for allergens and may help you get rid of the allergy. This form of treatment is most commonly used by pediatric allergists for children suffering from allergic asthma.

Allergic Asthma Self Care

In addition to the various treatment options, self-care is crucial for asthma patients to manage their symptoms. Here are some easy ways to self-care for asthma:

• Avoid exposure to allergens
• Do breathing exercises
• Follow an active lifestyle
• Avoid smoking
• Know your triggers 
• Keep your rescue inhalers handy.

Concluding Lines

The majority of people suffering from an allergy, also have asthma. Controlling your allergy is the best way to control allergic asthma. So, next time when you have an allergic reaction, notice your symptoms. If you have any symptoms indicating asthma see a doctor immediately. If you are aware and proactive, it is easy to prevent and control an asthma allergic reaction.

Also, it is recommended that you have an active health insurance plan to take care of your medical expenses. If you do not have one you can explore health insurance plans online at the Care Health Insurance website today.

Disclaimers: All plan features, benefits, coverage, and claims underwriting are subject to policy terms and conditions. Kindly refer to the brochure, sales prospectus, and policy documents carefully.