Asthma, one of the most common diseases, is a chronic condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways. Its symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath and chest tightness. For some, the disease can also be lethal because allergies and asthma often occur together. The same substances that can trigger hay fever symptoms -- such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites and grass -- may also cause asthma signs and symptoms. In some children and adults, skin or food allergies can also cause asthma symptoms. This condition is called allergy-induced asthma.
These two have more in common than you think. In most cases, the same allergens that can cause a runny nose or swell in a person can also cause an asthma attack in others.
How are Allergies and Asthma correlated?
The task of the immune system is to protect the body from bacteria and viruses. An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless substance such as tree pollen as harmful. As a result, to protect the body, the immune system will attack it by releasing chemicals. These chemicals like histamine cause swelling and inflammation. Other allergic symptoms include:
- Runny nose
- Itchy skin reactions
- Tongue swelling
- Nasal congestion
In some people, the same reactions affect the lungs, airways and also lead to asthma symptoms.
What is Allergic Asthma?
In people with asthma, the immune system is always extra sensitive and overreacts to certain allergens. When even a harmless substance like dust or pollen enters the airways through the nose, the muscles tighten, and the airways become inflamed.
Symptoms of Allergic Asthma
Allergic or non-allergic, the symptoms of asthma stays the same which includes:
- Cough
- Wheeze
- Shortness Of Breath
- Fast Breathing
- Tight Chest
Causes of Allergic Asthma
Allergens, including tree pollen, grass mould spores, animal dander or saliva, can trigger asthma attacks even if they don't cause an allergic reaction. The causes of an allergic asthma attack may be:
- Air pollution
- Smoke from cigarettes for fireworks
- Exercising in the cold atmosphere
- The smell of scented products like air fresheners or perfume
- Dusty environment
To test the cause of allergic asthma, a special blood test known as a specific IgE test is recommended by pulmonologists.
Treatment or medication for Allergic Asthma
Asthma and allergies do not require a very major chronic treatment process like having surgery; mostly medications will work and treat the attacks well. The primary step to control the allergies is to improve the symptoms, for which an anti-allergic medicine is usually enough.
Nasal allergy medications, including decongestant nasal sprays, may also give quick relief. However, if you feel that these are not working, a nasal steroid spray and strong antihistamine will be the best. But in case of severe allergies, nasal energy medications, or even stronger antihistamines won't work. Hence you have to consult with your doctor for other viable options, such as allergy shots.
Immunotherapy
Allergy shots are also known as immunotherapy that help treat asthma by reducing the immune system response to allergens by giving injections. The injections are filled with a tiny amount of allergen that triggers the symptoms. As a result, the immune system will build up a tolerance over time, and the allergic reaction will diminish.
There are many good asthma treatments, including inhaled steroids bronchodilators to fight inflammation and open up airways. Injections are also available to reduce the IgE level.
Anti-immunoglobulin E therapy (IgE)
When the immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless substance as an allergen the immune system releases antibodies known as IgE. These are responsible for the release of histamine. These medications hinder the IgE reaction and prevent the allergic reaction that triggers asthma.
Why Eternal Hospital?
At Eternal Hospital, we have a highly qualified and dedicated team of urologists who are always committed to providing the latest and most advanced medical care to all our patients. Being a trusted name in healthcare, we act compassionately while ensuring confidentiality to those who need it. We have set high standards in patient-centric premium care and outstanding patient safety, and exceptional maintenance in a timely manner. We adhere to the use of up to the minute innovations to offer state-of-the-art treatments to our patients with unparalleled results.
