Allergic asthma is a respiratory disease that affects millions of people around the world. It occurs when the airways become inflamed and react to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. In this article, you will learn about the main causes and symptoms of allergic asthma, how to recognize respiratory allergies, and what to do if you have an allergic asthma attack.
Allergic asthma, also known as atopic asthma, is a common respiratory disease that affects many people. This type of asthma is triggered by an allergic reaction that can occur in response to allergens such as dust, dust mites, pet dander, pollen, or mold. In this article, we explain the main causes of allergic asthma, the most common symptoms, how to recognize respiratory allergies and what to do if you have an allergic asthma attack.
What is the main cause of allergic asthma?
Allergic asthma results from an allergic reaction that occurs when the immune system reacts to a harmless substance as if it were dangerous. This reaction causes inflammation in the airways, which can lead to wheezing, coughing, and labored breathing.
Common allergens that can trigger an allergic reaction in people with allergic asthma include:
- Dust mites and animal dander
- Pollen and molds
- Chemical irritants such as household chemicals, perfumes, and cosmetics.
- Food products such as nuts and shellfish.
What are the symptoms of asthma?
Allergic asthma symptoms can vary from person to person, but some of the most common symptoms include:
- Wheezing: Wheezing is a high-pitched sound made when air passes through narrowed airways.
- Cough: A cough can be dry or wet and can be triggered by irritants such as smoke or chemicals.
- Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath occurs when the airways narrow and air cannot flow freely through the lungs.
- Chest tightness: Chest tightness is a feeling of pressure or tightness in the chest.
How do you recognize the sensitivity of the respiratory system?
Symptoms of a respiratory allergy can resemble those of allergic asthma, but may also include:
- Sneezing and stuffy nose
- Watery eyes and itchy eyes
- itchy rash;
- Headache and fatigue
If you suspect you may have a respiratory allergy, you should see your doctor and get diagnosed. Your doctor can help you identify the allergens that are causing your symptoms and develop a treatment plan to manage your symptoms.
What do you do in the event of an allergic asthma attack?
If you are having an allergic asthma attack, it is important that you take the following steps to manage your asthma attack:
- Use your Ventolin: If you have Ventolin, you should use it as soon as possible. Ventolin contains a bronchodilator medicine that helps open the airways and makes breathing easier. If you use Ventolin regularly, you should always have it on hand.
- Avoid triggers: Try to stay away from allergens that trigger your asthma. If you are allergic to dust mites, use mite-proof covers on your mattress and pillows. If you are allergic to animal dander, avoid places where animals are.
- Keep Calm: It’s normal to panic when you’re having trouble breathing, but try to stay calm. Anxiety can worsen asthma symptoms. Breathe deeply and slowly to calm down.
- If necessary, call an ambulance: If you find it very difficult to breathe or have chest pains, call an ambulance or go to the hospital immediately.
Follow your doctor’s instructions: Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for managing asthma. This may include taking medications regularly, avoiding allergens, and getting regular exercise.
Editor: Futura.
Cover photo: WavebreakmediaMicro, Adobe Stock-Allergic Asthma is a common respiratory disease that affects many people.
