How Allergies Influence Asthma in Daily Life

Asthma is a respiratory condition marked by persistent inflammation and the narrowing of airways, which can make breathing complex and unpredictable. This inflammation leads to wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. 

Asthma is often triggered by environmental factors, many of which overlap with common allergens, making the connection between asthma and allergies vital to understanding for effective management.

So what are Allergies?

The immune system produces allergic reactions to substances known as allergens, which should generally be harmless. Exposure of someone with allergies to allergens triggers their immune system to overreact, producing histamine through which symptoms develop. 

Most allergy-triggering substances include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, and particular food items.

Common Allergens that Trigger Asthma

• Seasonal allergens from trees, grasses, and weeds can cause allergic rhinitis, hay fever, and asthma exacerbations. The timing of pollen exposure varies depending on the plant species and the geographic location.
• Mites are microscopic creatures that are found in house dust. They thrive in warm, humid environments, and their droppings are a major year-round allergen that can trigger both allergy and asthma symptoms. Effective dust mite control measures in the home are important for managing these conditions.
• Pet Dander Proteins found in animals' skin, saliva, and urine, particularly cats and dogs, can be potent airborne allergens. Even homes without pets can contain pet dander brought in on clothing or through ventilation systems.
• Mold Fungi that thrive in damp environments such as bathrooms, basements, and poorly ventilated areas can release microscopic spores into the air. These spores may very well trigger a series of allergic reactions and asthma symptoms in susceptible individuals. Different types of mold can be present indoors and outdoors.
• Cockroach Allergens occur when particles from cockroach droppings, saliva, and body parts are present in the air. They are significant indoor allergens, especially in urban environments. Exposure can take place through inhalation of airborne particles or direct contact with contaminated surfaces.
• Animal Dander Other Than Pets Exposure to allergens from animals like rodents, rabbits, and birds can also trigger allergic reactions & asthma symptoms in sensitized individuals
• Certain Foods While food allergies primarily cause gastrointestinal symptoms, skin reactions, or anaphylaxis in some individuals, they can also trigger asthma symptoms, particularly in children. Common food allergens include peanuts, eggs, tree nuts, soy, milk, wheat, and fish.

Diagnosis of Asthma and Allergies

Medical History & Physical Exam

The doctor will ask the questions about the patient's symptoms, frequency, duration, triggers, and family medical history. A thorough physical examination is also performed, including listening to the lungs.

Allergy Testing

Skin prick testing involves applying tiny amounts of diluted allergens to the surface of the skin—typically the forearm or back—and monitoring for any localized reactions like redness or swelling. Alternatively, blood tests such as specific IgE tests assess the presence and concentration of antibodies targeting particular allergens. Both methods are used to pinpoint substances that trigger allergic responses in an individual.

Pulmonary Function Test

Spirometry measures how much air you can inhale & exhale & how quickly you can exhale. These tests assess lung function and can help diagnose asthma and its severity. Serial measurements over time can also track the effectiveness of treatment.

Bronchial Provocation Test 

This test involves inhaling increasing amounts of a substance known to potentially trigger asthma, such as methacholine or histamine, to see if it causes airway narrowing. It is often used to confirm a diagnosis of asthma when spirometry results are not conclusive.

Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide FeNO Test

This noninvasive test measures the amount of nitric oxide in exhaled breath, which can be elevated in people with airway inflammation associated with allergic asthma.

Peak Expiratory Flow PEF Monitoring Patients may be asked to use a handheld device to measure how quickly they can exhale air. This can help monitor asthma control at home and identify early signs of worsening symptoms.

Management and Treatment

Allergen Avoidance 

Reducing or eliminating exposure to identified allergens is a cornerstone of management. This may include using allergen-proof bedding, regular cleaning to reduce dust mites and mold, avoiding pets, or using air purifiers.

Medications for Asthma

• Inhaled Corticosteroids are the most effective long-term controller medications for asthma, reducing airway inflammation and preventing symptoms. They are taken daily, even when symptoms are absent.
• Acting Beta Agonists LABAs These bronchodilators help open the airways and are typically used with inhaled corticosteroids for long-term control. They are not used as rescue medications.
• Short-acting beta Agonists (SABAs) are quick-relief or rescue medications that rapidly relax the muscles around the airways, providing quick relief of acute asthma symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.
• Leukotriene Modifiers These oral medications can help reduce inflammation and airway narrowing in some individuals with asthma, particularly those whose asthma is triggered by allergies.
• Biologics For severe allergic asthma, certain biologic medications that target specific inflammatory pathways may be considered.

What can you do?

Regular monitoring

For recommended patients, individuals should track asthma and allergy symptoms, medication consumption, and peak flow results to identify triggers, monitor condition progress, and decide on treatment modifications.

Following treatment plan

Medical success in controlling asthma and allergies depends upon following all prescribed medications exactly as prescribed, without missed doses or symptom presentations.

Environment control measures

To prevent allergen exposure from home to workplaces and other environments, one should implement essential strategies, including HEPA filter-based cleaning maintenance, proper humidity management, and avoidance of specific triggers.

Education and self-management

People who receive complete asthma and allergy education about identification factors, medication protocols, and action planning become capable of actively controlling their own health needs.

Communication with healthcare providers

Medical providers must stay in touch for continuous evaluation of symptoms, treatment optimization, and updates regarding worsening medical conditions.

Awareness of triggers

People with both conditions should prioritize learning about specific triggers since they need to avoid allergens and irritants when combined with exercise and weather changes.

Management of comorbid conditions

Patients who have asthma and allergies have a higher chance of presenting coexisting conditions, which necessitate extensive medical oversight.

Psychological support

People affected by asthma and allergies benefit from psychological help because chronic illness causes stress, which affects mental health, yet they can find help through therapists and support groups.

Sterling Hospital is Your Partner in Better Health Across Gujarat

At Sterling Hospital, we provide the utmost care and comfort throughout your journey to a healthier life. We've got you covered if you are looking for the best pulmonologist in Vadodara, Rajkot, or  Gandhidham. 

Our pulmonary department is built with a team of the best pulmonologists in these regions to provide premium treatment and the best results. Contact Sterling Hospital to schedule a consultation and embark on a healthier future.