POLLEN COUNT
Asthma and allergy—do you know that they have in common aside from their ability to make people miserable? The conditions have a number of similarities, and can even coexist.
Let’s explore the link between allergies and asthma and learn how an allergist can help with both conditions.
How Are Allergies and Asthma Related?
During an allergic response, the immune system releases antibodies (white blood cells). The antibodies, in turn, secrete histamine, which is the culprit in runny nose, postnasal drip, nasal congestion, skin reactions, and other symptoms. For some people, an allergic response can also affect their airways and lungs, resulting in coughing, breathing problems, and wheezing—what is known as allergy-induced asthma (allergic asthma). Studies show that patients with allergies, particularly allergic rhinitis, are three times as likely to develop asthma.
Asthma and allergies can also be precipitated by some of the same triggers, such as dust, mold, and pollen.
It’s worth mentioning that while the two conditions are related, allergies are just among the many triggers of asthma. The latter can also be caused by other things, such as cold air, infections, stress, and exercise, thus referred to as nonallergic asthma.
How an Allergist Can Help
If you experience the symptoms of allergies, asthma, or both, your best course of action is to consult an allergist, who will do a thorough assessment. This will likely include a review of your symptoms and skin prick test (to pinpoint what’s triggering your reaction). If your doctor suspects allergic asthma, they may also carry out additional tests, such as spirometry, to confirm a diagnosis.
Your allergy doctor will then craft a personalized treatment plan aimed at both keeping flare-ups at bay and mitigating your symptoms when they occur.
Most treatments are geared toward treating either allergies or asthma, but there are a few that can help with both of them. These include the following:
- Allergy immunotherapy (drops or shots) – This involves an allergy doctor introducing small but increasing amounts of a specific allergen to train the immune system to build tolerance to it. As the body gets used to the allergen, the symptoms gradually diminish.
- Anti-lgE therapy – This works by interfering with the release of antibodies (lgE) in the event of an exposure, thereby preventing an allergic response. This treatment is recommended for people with moderate to severe asthma and/or allergies.
- Leukotriene modifiers – These medications help prevent breathing problems associated with both conditions.
Allergy and Asthma Treatment Near Me in Elmhurst, Downers Grove, Naperville and Plainfield, IL
Don’t let allergies or asthma put a damper on your springtime fun. If you live in Elmhurst, Downers Grover, Plainfield, or Naperville in Illinois, turn to us here at Oak Brook Allergists.
Our board-certified allergists/immunologists see patients of all ages and provide effective solutions for asthma and all types of allergies. You can count on them to help you or your child break free from all the sniffles, sneezing fits, breathing problems, coughs, and wheezes.
Book your appointment today. Contact our staff at (630) 574-0460. Alternatively, you may send an appointment request using this form. We look forward to serving you at one of our convenient locations!
