The Link Between Allergies and Asthma
Asthma and allergies often go hand in hand. Allergic asthma is quite widespread across North America. Your body's reaction to an allergen can often lead to an asthma attack, or it might cause an existing condition to become worse. This is a real problem for people who are suffering from both allergies and asthma, as it means double the irritation and much higher potential for serious health issues.
Allergens cause your body to produce antibodies to get rid of the irritant, causing you to experience a reaction that usually involves sneezing and watering of the eyes. Your body's response to the allergens also causes inflammation of the airway and nasal linings, so if have an asthma condition you will often suffer an attack at this time. Those who have respiratory allergies along with asthma typically experience more severe attacks.
Does treatment of allergies result in prevention of asthma? It can definitely reduce the chances of having an asthma attack. Allergy shots are very useful because they reduce the ability of your antibodies to react to allergens. This in turns lessens the chances of experiencing an asthma attack.
If you have asthma, it's recommended that you avoid the things that trigger inflammation of the airways. The most typical culprits are dust mites, pet dander, pollen and certain foods. Those who have family members with allergic asthma are more likely to acquire the disease. These people are advised to be very careful with possible allergens. Typically, there's more than one factor involved when it comes to allergic asthma.
You don't always have to use medication if you are successful at avoiding the situations that lead to an attack. But if you use medication, make sure you are treating both the allergy and the asthma. Nasal sprays can reduce inflammation caused by allergies. Inhalers can reduce inflammation caused by asthma. Be aware, though, that self-medication can have serious consequences. First of all, you should visit your doctor to discuss the most appropriate course of treatment. There are medications available that can be taken to cure both conditions; however these can be dangerous if the person has certain health conditions that may be worsened by the treatment.
People are advised to take control of their problem by making sure they know which factors trigger their attacks. Discuss all this information with your physician so he or she can formulate the best possible asthma treatments for your situation. Your physician will assess your history and your body's previous response to treatments that have been prescribed.
Tagged with: allergic asthma • Allergies • asthma • asthma treatment
Filed under: Allergies
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