Introduction
Asthma is basically an inflammatory condition where the lung-lining becomes narrow due to increased production of histamines and other related compounds. This is an almost immediate reaction to certain smells, pollen or dust. Thankfully, it is not a major nuisance for most individuals (they get away with sneezing or watery eyes) and gets better with some rest but others can get incapacitated due to severe asthma attacks. Cold air can also cause a shock and exacerbate his condition. This means you will need to understand how to manage asthma in a systematic manner.
Causes for Allergic Asthma
The different possible causes include an exposure to any of the following:
- Mold
- Insect bites
- Certain food groups
- Animal dander (fur, feathers, saliva, hair etc.)
- Insect faeces
This allergic reaction is due to a hyper-sensitive immune system.
Symptoms of Allergic Asthma
They include taking short breaths or displaying an inability to breathe normally. A wheezing sound and coughing are also common.
Tips to Manage Allergic Asthma
- When spring cleaning, ensure you use protective gear like masks, so you don’t inhale dust.
- Going out in summer can be challenging due to the high pollen content in the air.
- Ensure that your humidifier is used, to prevent the air from getting too dry.
- Keep your surroundings generally clean
- Avoid certain kinds of food if you know them to be triggers.
- If you wish to use air filters, then choosing the right one matters.
Treatments Available to Deal with Allergic Asthma
Asthma can be managed, but NOT be cured. Some options available are the use of inhalers, saline nasal rinses, antihistamine containing medication or even steroid injections- based on severity of symptoms.
Conclusion
Identifying your triggers and then systematically working to avoid them or manage them is the only way to deal with asthma in the long run. So, it makes sense to have an asthma treatment plan and discuss it with your friends, family or caretakers. The treatments offered depend on the severity of symptoms displayed. Staying vigilant is the way forward. So, vigilant you shall be!
FAQs
Q1. What is allergic asthma?
Asthma or related symptoms caused in response to certain irritants or allergens is allergic asthma. It can strike anywhere and at any time, so being careful is always the number one priority here. Prevention is key. The allergens can include dust, pollen, animal fur or saliva, strong perfumes etc.
Q2. How is allergic asthma diagnosed?
A detailed medical history needs to be given to the physician, who will then follow up with some physical exams and allergy tests (skin prick and blood tests). These are done to understand what the specific triggers may be.
Q3. How can I reduce allergen exposure at home?
Keeping a clean home makes a lot of difference. Vacuuming furniture, using fresh bedspreads, blankets and keeping the kitchen clean are all great places to start. If you are a pet lover, then choose to house only hypoallergenic breeds. Using an air purifier is a good choice. Air humidifiers are super helpful in winters since attacks can be triggered by exposure to cold air.
Q4. Does weather play a role in managing asthma?
Yes, summer and winter or even rains can cause an increase in asthma cases. This is due to a variety of reasons- increase in pollen, mites, humidity, presence of mold etc. among other reasons.
Q5. Are food allergies linked to asthma?
Food allergies can take a few minutes to cause a reaction, or you may be fine for several hours or days after a meal. Though the symptoms include wheezing or not being able to breathe and choking, food allergies are generally NOT linked to asthma. Certain kinds of foods like greasy or heavy foods can make you uncomfortable and cause symptoms. This is mainly because the GI tract is affected in an allergic reaction.
