Allergies or Asthma

How does an allergic reaction cause asthma symptoms?

An allergic reaction occurs when immune system proteins (antibodies) mistakenly identify a harmless substance, such as tree pollen, as an invader. In an attempt to protect your torso from the substance, antibodies bind to the allergen.

The chemicals released by your immune system lead to allergy signs and symptoms, such as nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes or skin reactions. For some people, this same response also affects the lungs and airways, leading to asthma symptoms.

Are allergies and asthma treated differently?

Most discussions are designed to treat either asthma or allergies. Merely a few treatments help with both conditions. Some examples:

Leukotriene modifier. Montelukast (Singulair) can ease both allergy and asthma symptoms. Called a leukotriene modifier, this daily pill helps control immune system chemicals released during an allergic response.

In uncommon cases, montelukast has been linked to psychological reactions, including suicidal thinking. Seek medical advice right away for any unusual psychological reaction to one of these medicinal drugs.

Allergy injections (immunotherapy). Allergy shots can help treat asthma by gradually reducing your immune-system response to certain allergy triggers. Immunotherapy involves getting regular injections of a tiny quantity of the allergens that trigger your symptoms.

Your immune system builds up a allowance to the allergens over time, and your allergic reactions diminish. In turn, asthma symptoms decrease as well. This treatment generally requires regular injections over a period of three to five years.

Anti-immunoglobulin E (IgE) Therapy.When you induce an allergy, your immune system mistakenly identifies a specific substance as something harmful and releases antibodies, known as IgE, against the culprit allergen.

The following time you encounter that allergen, the IgE antibodies sense it and signal your immune system to release a chemical called histamine, as well as other chemicals, into your bloodstream. The medication omalizumab (Xolair) Interferes with IgE in the physical structure and helps prevent the allergic reaction that triggers asthma symptoms.

You may require other medications to treat allergies or asthma, especially if your symptoms become severe at times. Nonetheless, recognizing and avoiding the substances that trigger your symptoms is the most important step you can take.

Who's at risk of allergic asthma?

A folk history of allergies is a major risk factor for allergic asthma. Having hay fever or other allergies yourself also increases your risk of contracting asthma.

Is all asthma caused by allergies?

Though allergic asthma is really common, there are other types of asthma with different kinds of triggers. For more or less people, asthma can be triggered by exercise, infections, cold air, gastroesophageal reflux disease or stress. Many people experience more than one kind of asthma trigger.

Demand charge: Get symptoms under control

Recognize the things that trigger your allergy and asthma symptoms and learn how to limit your exposure to theWork with your doctor to determine the best treatment to manage your symptoms, and check in with your doctor on a regular basis.asis.

Because allergy and asthma symptoms can change over time, you may need to adapt your treatment accordingly. Read the signs that your asthma may be flaring up — and know what to do when it does.