In Colorado, low humidity and high altitude often overlap with allergies and asthma. A significant number of our patients who have seasonal allergies also have some degree of coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath. Knowing the relationship between the two can aid in early symptom detection and treatment. At Colorado ENT & Allergy, we often see patients whose asthma is closely linked to allergic symptoms. An effective way to improve breathing control and overall respiratory health is to understand and avoid those allergic triggers.
Resource: mayoclinic.org
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What’s the Connection Between Allergies and Asthma?
Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to things that are typically harmless, such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold. The reaction leads to swelling in your nose, sinuses, and even your lungs. Asthma is a long-term condition affecting the airways in the lungs. The airways become inflamed, narrow, and constricted, and they produce extra mucus. Symptoms can include:
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Chronic cough, often at night
For some, sneeze- and sniffle-inducing allergens can also lead to asthma symptoms, called allergic asthma. This condition involves allergic reactions that lead to asthma symptoms.
Resource: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
What is Allergic Asthma?
The most prevalent form of asthma is allergic asthma. It is characterized by inflammation of the lungs in response to an allergen. If you experience difficulty breathing when pollen counts are high, or when you are around pets or dust, then allergies may be to blame. Colorado Springs has a lot going against it. The air is dry. It can be quite windy, and seasonal pollen counts are moderate. Then there’s the smoke from wildfires. All of this can exacerbate the lungs of people who are allergic, making them more prone to asthma attacks.
Shared Triggers They Have in Common
Many substances can trigger both allergies and asthma. The following are among the most common:
- Tree
- Grass
- Weed pollen
- Dust mites
- Pet dander
- Mold spores
- Smoke
- Air pollution
When inhaled, these triggers can irritate and inflame both the upper and lower airways. Allergic rhinitis, often experienced as nasal congestion, can worsen asthma symptoms by further restricting airflow and increasing irritation in the lungs.
Resource: asthma.ca
What Your Allergies Are Trying to Tell You About Your Asthma
It’s not always clear whether symptoms are due to allergies, asthma, or both. Allergies may play a role in your asthma if:
Asthma symptoms worsen during allergy season, with increased use of a rescue inhaler after exposure to an allergen; chronic nasal congestion accompanied by wheezing or coughing, and symptoms triggered by pets or dusty conditions. If you have a history of allergies, and you find that when your allergies kick up, your breathing gets worse, you might want to get tested.
The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis
Treating asthma without addressing underlying allergies may leave symptoms only partially controlled. Allergy testing can identify specific triggers, allowing your provider to create a targeted treatment plan.
Management options may include:
- Allergen avoidance strategies
- Prescription medications for allergy and asthma control
- Nasal sprays and inhalers
- Immunotherapy, such as allergy shots
When both conditions are treated together, many patients experience fewer flare-ups and improved quality of life.
When to See a Specialist
If you’re experiencing persistent coughing, shortness of breath, or wheezing, don’t take it lightly. If your symptoms are affecting your sleep, your ability to exercise, or your daily functioning, it’s time to see a specialist. Schedule an appointment with Colorado ENT & Allergy to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.