Allergies and Asthma

Allergies and asthma can be closely related, but it is possible to have one of these conditions without having the other. Allergies can be classified as one of three levels, depending on the strength of the symptoms. Symptoms of allergies can be mild, severe, or moderate. The severity of the allergy will determine which symptoms you suffer. Mild allergies can cause symptoms including nasal and chest congestion, eyes that are watery, itchy, and burn, and a rash that can appear on your skin. A mild allergic reaction will stay in the affected area and will not spread at all. If you suffer from moderate allergies, you may see all the symptoms of a mild reaction plus you may have a hard time breathing and you may experience itchiness anywhere in your body. A severe allergy can be life threatening, and can cause a condition called anaphylactic shock. This is the result of anaphylaxis, and symptoms can include vomiting, severe swelling, dizziness, abdominal pain and cramps, diarrhea, and confusion. If a severe allergic reaction is not treated immediately by medical personnel it can lead to organ failure and suffocation because of throat swelling.

Asthma is a medical condition that can become life threatening if it becomes severe and emergency medical treatment is not sought. Asthma can affect any age group, both male and female, and is one of the major reasons for emergency room visits and missed work and school. When an asthma attack happens, muscles in your chest and lungs tighten up and this will cause narrowing of the the airways in your lungs. The airway linings start to swell, and more mucous is produced as a response to the inflammation. An asthma attack can cause difficulty in breathing, a shortness of breath, pain and pressure in your chest, a tightness in your chest, and a chronic cough that occurs at night most often. A severe asthma attack can lead to an inability of your lungs and body to get enough oxygen, and can lead to serious health risks if you do not get emergency medical attention.

It is common for allergies and asthma to be present at the same time. If you have asthma and also allergies, you can have allergic asthma. Any exposure to allergens can cause an asthma attack. There are ways to help minimize the symptoms and frequency of allergies and asthma. One way to reduce allergens in your home is by using an air purifying system that uses a HEPA filter, which will remove over ninety percent of the allergens from the air. This can reduce your risks of an allergic asthma attack. If you suffer from allergies, have allergy testing done so that you know exactly what poses a risk to you. Make sure you discuss your condition with your family doctor, and follow any medication regimen carefully so that asthma attacks are prevented as much as possible. There are many different medications that can be used to control and prevent both allergies and asthma attacks. Understanding your allergies and asthma can help you control them much better.