How do asthma and allergy relate? In most cases, asthma occurs as a result of exposure to allergens. It affects both children and adults but has severe effects on children. Usually, treatments include inhaled medications which help the affected individuals live quality lives. Staying away from asthma triggers may also lower the symptoms’ effects. The Bastrop asthma & allergies specialist Pompeyo Chavez, MD, provides quality and compassionate care for asthma and allergies to help you live healthy lives. This piece provides you with further details on asthma and allergies.
Table of Contents
What are allergies and asthma?
Allergies occur as a way of your body responding to triggers that lead to the overaction of the immune system. The triggers are different for every person, also known as allergens. Usually, allergens are harmless, but your body falsely defines them as dangerous.
Your body responds to allergens by producing chemical messages that cause allergy symptoms all over your body.
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that occurs due to an allergy trigger. Exposure to an allergen causes an asthmatic person’s airways to constrict and swell, causing breathing problems. The condition is common in children; it may or not get better as they grow older.
What are the common triggers for allergies and asthma?
The most common allergens that lead to allergic reactions and asthma include the following.
- Mold
- Food such as nuts or dairy
- Pet dander
- Insect bites
- Dust mites
- Strong-smelling products
- Seasonal tree and plant pollen
- Smoking or second-hand smoke
You may also develop asthma from solid emotions, respiratory infections, stress, extreme temperatures, and airborne chemicals.
What symptoms are you likely to develop from allergies and asthma?
The symptoms are different for everyone and may vary from mild to severe. The most common symptoms include the following;
- Congestion or a runny nose
- Itchy eyes or skin
- Swollen eyes, face, or lips
- Coughing or sneezing
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Hives or skin rashes
An asthma attack is the instant onset of asthma in response to the trigger. Asthma symptoms include chest tightness, difficulty breathing, wheezing, and coughing.
What are the treatments for asthma and allergies?
Unfortunately, there are no treatments for asthma and allergies. The treatment option focuses on pointing out and keeping away from asthma and allergy triggers. Another approach involves treating the symptoms that result from the allergic reaction.
Your treatment plan may include the following.
- Breathing treatments
- Allergy shots
- Inhaler medications
- Allergy testing
- Creams or topical medications
- Oral antihistamine medications
Your provider works with you to help identify your allergy triggers and develop a treatment plan to eliminate your allergy symptoms. They also educate you on lifestyle modifications that may lower the severity and frequency of asthma attacks.
Asthma is a chronic disease that causes swelling and inflammation of your airways. It leads to constriction of the airways, causing breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include coughing, wheezing, or chest pain.
Usually, asthma symptoms result from triggers or allergens such as dust, smoke, or pet dander. Without medical management, asthma can lead to death. Avoiding the triggers can help you prevent asthma and allergies. Call Pompeyo C Chavez, MD, to schedule your consultation or book online.
