Can Allergies Trigger Asthma?
Many people who are diagnosed with breathing conditions ask their doctor, “Do allergies affect asthma?”, or more specifically, “Can allergies trigger asthma?”. The short answer to both questions is, “Yes.” Allergies can trigger asthma, worsen it or both. In people who experience this, the condition is often referred to as allergy-induced asthma or allergic asthma. Approximately 60% of people with asthma have this type.
What Are the Signs of Allergy-Induced Asthma?
Asthma and allergies share some of their symptoms such as congestion and coughing. However, they each have some unique symptoms as well. For example, asthma can cause:
- Breathlessness
- Wheezing
- Tightness in the chest
- Coughing in the morning or at night
Allergies, on the other hand, can produce:
- Sneezing
- Throat irritation
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Rash or hives
If you experience symptoms from both groups, these may be signs of allergy-induced asthma.
What Types of Allergies Can Cause Asthma?
If you have allergy-induced asthma, the same substances that cause your allergies to flare up can produce asthma symptoms. These may include:
- Pet dander
- Tree, grass and weed pollen
- Mold spores
- Dust mite feces
- Cockroach feces
- Specific foods
So, if you’re wondering, “Can seasonal allergies cause asthma?” or “Can food allergies cause asthma?”, the unfortunate truth for those with allergic asthma is that they can. However, knowing your allergy and asthma triggers and doing your best to avoid them can help prevent symptoms of both conditions. These include irritants that may not cause an allergic reaction but can trigger an asthma attack such as air pollution, smoke, cold air, chemical fumes, and certain air fresheners, perfumes, or other scented products.
There are also different treatments for allergies and asthma, as well as some medications that treat allergic asthma specifically.
Allergy-Induced Asthma Treatment from Baptist Health
Learn more about treatment for asthma and allergy conditions at Baptist Health.
