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How to Identify and Treat Allergy-Triggered Asthma

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If you suffer from allergy-triggered asthma symptoms, now is the time you are likely feeling the effects. That’s why the American Lung Association designated May as National Asthma Awareness month. Our warmer than normal winter may be causing you more problems than you’ve experienced in the past.

 

Asthma symptoms can be caused by a variety of factors. You can learn more about all the different types of asthma here. If you find that your asthma symptoms (wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain or chest tightness) appear in early Spring and tend to lessen or disappear completely during the Winter, you are likely having a reaction to the increased amount of pollen in the air.

 

Seasonal allergy symptoms can also be triggered by excessive heat, high humidity, or higher than normal levels of air pollution.

 

If you are suffering from seasonal allergy symptoms, the providers at IEP Urgent Care can prescribe or refill prescriptions of medication that can help you breathe easier. We may also recommend a visit to an allergist or your primary care doc for testing and further treatment. You should also take steps to avoid exposing yourself to allergy triggers. Here are some general guidelines for identifying and treating these symptoms:


Identifying Symptoms:


Identify Triggers: Pay attention to when asthma symptoms worsen. Common triggers include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, and certain foods. Keeping a symptom diary can help identify triggers.


Allergy Testing: Consult an allergist for allergy testing. Skin prick tests or blood tests (like the RAST test) can identify specific allergens triggering your asthma.


Spirometry Test: This lung function test measures how much air you can breathe in and out and how fast you can blow air out. It helps in diagnosing asthma and monitoring its severity.


Treatment:


Avoid Allergens: Once identified, try to minimize exposure to allergens. Stay indoors during ozone action days and on days when pollen counts are higher than normal. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters in your home, encase mattresses and pillows with allergen-proof covers, keep pets out of bedrooms, and regularly clean your living space.


Medications:


Quick-Relief Inhalers (Bronchodilators): These provide immediate relief by relaxing the muscles around the airways during an asthma attack.

Controller Medications (Inhaled Corticosteroids): These are taken daily to reduce airway inflammation and prevent asthma symptoms.

Leukotriene Modifiers: These medications block the action of certain immune system chemicals involved in asthma.

Allergy Medications: Antihistamines and decongestants can help control allergy symptoms.


Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots): If allergens can't be avoided and medications aren't sufficient, allergen immunotherapy may be recommended. It involves regular injections of small doses of allergens to desensitize your immune system.


After taking these steps, and your asthma symptoms are still not well controlled, consult with an allergist who can help you better define what is causing your asthma symptoms and help you feel better and breathe easier

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