Four Things You Need to Know About Allergy-Induced Asthma
Allergies and asthma are two conditions that frequently occur together. In fact, reactions to allergens can worse symptoms of asthma or even trigger an asthma attack. Individuals who have asthma attacks triggered by allergens suffer from allergy-induced asthma. If you suffer from allergy-induced asthma, check out a few things you need to know.
1. Allergies and Asthma Are Two Different Conditions
Though asthma and allergies can and do occur at the same time, they are distinct conditions, each of which has its own set of symptoms.
Symptoms of allergies include sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, rash, and watery eyes. Asthma symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, and excessive coughing.
2. Genetics Increase Your Chances of Suffering from Allergy-Induced Asthma
Allergy-induced asthma is believed to be partly caused by genetic factors. If one or both of your parents have allergy-induced asthma, there is a strong chance that you will suffer from it as well.
3. Treating Your Allergies Can Decrease Your Chances of Suffering from Asthma Attacks
If you can get your allergies under control, this helps you get your asthma under control as well. There are few different options for treating allergies.
The first option for treating allergies is to avoid known allergens, such as pollen or pets. Though this is an effective way to decrease your allergy symptoms, it is not a fool-proof method. You may have to expose yourself to allergens at times. For example, it is difficult to completely avoid pollen during the spring time.
Another alternative to treating your allergies is to undergo a series of shots known as allergy shots in what's known as allergy induced asthma treatment. Over time (usually a few years), you receive injections that include small amounts of known allergens. The amounts of the allergens are small enough that any reactions should be minimal, but it is enough of the allergen that it forces your immune system to respond. The goal is for your immune system to eventually build up a tolerance to the allergens.
4. You Should Still Pay Attention to Your Other Asthma Triggers
Even though allergens can trigger an asthma attack, there are other items that can also cause an attack. If you can get your allergies under control, you still need to avoid exposure to other triggers.
For example, cold air triggers an asthma attack in some individuals. Limit exposure to frigid air whenever possible.
Tobacco smoke is another prevalent trigger for those with asthma. Make sure that those around you know that cigarette smoke can cause an asthma attack so that they understand the importance of not smoking in your vicinity.