Allergy-related asthma is the most common type of asthma in the United States, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Allergy-related asthma is caused by airborne allergens that are inhaled into the lungs. The airborne allergens trigger an allergic reaction in the immune system that causes the airways to inflame and swell. Not all asthma is the result of an allergic reaction and needs to be evaluated by a doctor.
Triggers
National Jewish Health states that common allergens are triggers fro allergy related asthma. These triggers include pollen, a food allergy, mold allergy, dust allergy or animal allergy. During springtime, plants produce an excessive amount of pollen that enters the air and is easily breathed into the lungs. The same is true for mold spores that fill the air without warning. Household triggers can cause year-round asthma attacks and should be removed from the home.
Signs
MayoClinic.com states that the most common first signs of allergy-related asthma is shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing. The allergic reaction affects the lungs the same way it does the sinus cavity. It causes swelling, which places strain on the person's ability to breathe normally. This leads to chest tightness, chest pain and discomfort.
Warning Signs
The BBC states that sever allergy related asthma could be life-threatening. In rare cases, an extreme allergy-related asthma attack can lead to anaphylactic shock. Warning signs of anaphylactic shock such as increased heart rate, fainting and the inability to breathe will accompany signs of asthma. This type of reaction can cause death or serious permanent complications, so emergency medical care is required.
Treatment
According to National Jewish Health, the most common treatments for allergy-related asthma are to avoid triggers and use antihistamines and prescribed nasal sprays. Avoid triggers that cause an asthmatic reaction, such as eliminating mold that is visible in the home and avoiding the outdoors. For people with severe allergy-related asthma, allergy shots can help reduce the individual's sensitivity to particular substances causing the asthma.
Considerations
MayoClinic.com recommends talking with a doctor about the signs and symptoms of asthma to determine the exact cause and type of asthma. Asthma can be the result of many different factors that is determined by a doctor.
People with a family history of allergies or asthma are at greater risk of developing signs of allergy-related asthma.
