Allergies and asthma can make everyday life feel harder than it should. Together, they affect millions of people across the United States each year and often go hand in hand.
Today, more than 50 million Americans experience allergies, and asthma continues to impact about 1 in 13 people. One of the most common connections between the two is a condition known as allergic asthma.
What is allergic asthma?
Allergic asthma happens when allergens in your environment trigger asthma symptoms. These symptoms may include shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, or a tight feeling in your chest.
Common allergens include:
- Pollen
- Dust mites
- Pet dander
- Mold
When these triggers are inhaled, your immune system reacts as if they are harmful. This response can cause inflammation in your airways, making it harder to breathe.
Why allergies and asthma are connected
Many people with asthma also have allergies. In fact, allergens are one of the most common triggers for asthma symptoms. This is why allergic asthma is the most common type of asthma.
“Allergens can trigger a strong immune response in the body,” says Allison Rasnic, FNP with West Tennessee Medical Group Primary Care Thomsen Farms. “When exposed, the body releases immunoglobulin E, or IgE, which can lead to symptoms like congestion, itchy eyes, and even bronchospasm, which is an asthma attack.”
This reaction causes swelling in the airways and can lead to increased mucus, making breathing more difficult.
Common symptoms to watch for
If you have allergic asthma, you may notice a combination of allergy and asthma symptoms, such as:
- Sneezing or nasal congestion
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may change over time.
Other asthma triggers
Not all asthma symptoms are caused by allergies. Other common triggers include:
- Cold air
- Exercise
- Strong odors
- Respiratory infections
Many people have more than one trigger, so understanding what affects you is key to managing symptoms.
Treatment options that can help
Managing allergic asthma often involves treating both the allergy and the asthma. Your provider may recommend a combination of treatments based on your symptoms.
Leukotriene modifiers
These daily medications help reduce inflammation caused by allergic reactions and can improve both asthma and allergy symptoms.
Allergy shots (immunotherapy)
This long-term treatment helps your body build a tolerance to allergens over time, reducing the severity of reactions.
Anti-IgE therapy
Medications like Omalizumab work by blocking the immune response that causes allergic reactions. This option is typically used for more severe cases.
Living well with allergic asthma
Allergic asthma can feel overwhelming, but it is manageable with the right approach.
Pay attention to what triggers your symptoms and take steps to limit exposure when possible. Regular check-ins with your provider are also important, as symptoms and triggers can change over time.
With the right care plan, you can reduce flare-ups, breathe easier, and stay active throughout the year.
