Asthma & Allergies
Asthma and allergies – two conditions with similarly unpleasant symptoms – have more in common than you may think. In fact, they frequently occur at the same time.
More than 25 million people in the U.S. have asthma, according to the Asthma and Allergies Foundation of America. Allergic asthma is the most common type of asthma and affects around 60 percent of people living with asthma.
About Allergic Asthma
Allergic responses take place when the immune system reacts to a harmless substance, like pollen, as if it’s a dangerous substance. Common allergy triggers, like pollen, dust mites and pet dander, can cause asthmatic reactions. Common allergic reactions include nasal congestion, runny nose and itchy eyes and skin.
When an asthmatic reaction is triggered by an allergy, it’s known as allergic asthma or allergy-induced asthma. This reaction occurs when the immune system attacks an allergen by releasing a substance called immunoglobulin E (also known as IgE), which, in excess amounts, can cause inflammation in the airways, triggering wheezing, shortness of breath, or even asthma attacks.
Other types of allergies, such as skin or food allergies, can also cause asthmatic reactions when the exposure occurs through ingesting the allergen or by coming into contact with it physically. The most common triggers for allergic asthma are cockroaches, dust mites, mold, pets and pollen.
Seeking Support
If your symptoms are unmanageable and if you think you have allergies or asthma, consult a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan. With a simple skin or blood test, your doctor can determine if you have seasonal or year-round allergies.
In addition to seeking support from a doctor, it’s wise to be aware of what triggers your asthma and allergies especially since, in some cases, asthmatic and allergic reactions can be extremely uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous.
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asthma/in-depth/allergies-and-asthma/art-20047458
https://www.aafa.org/allergic-asthma/
