If you are like millions of other Americans who cough and sneeze their way through the spring, you may have seasonal allergies – also called hay fever. This type of allergic reaction is caused by the increasing pollen count in the air during springtime and summertime, and these allergens can also cause asthma symptoms in susceptible people.
Springtime asthma – also called allergy-induced asthma – affects over 20 million Americans. In addition to pollen, it can be triggered by indoor allergens such as pet dander, smoke, and mold.
Do Spring Allergies Trigger Asthma?
A springtime allergy doesn’t cause asthma per se, but allergies and asthma attacks often have the same type of response to the same irritants and allergens. During an asthma attack, the air passages become narrow and fill up with mucus, causing coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing. A seasonal allergy can make your immune system respond to allergens with a runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes.
An asthma attack may also occur in conjunction with upper respiratory tract allergic reactions, such as:
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes
- Stuffy nose
- Itchy eyes, ears, and nose
Preventing Seasonal Asthma Attacks
If you experience asthma attacks during the spring, a doctor can help you identify your triggers and help you avoid them in order to prevent the attacks. An asthma management plan is necessary if you want to avoid respiratory complications that have the potential to be fatal.
A physician can perform an allergy test and create an asthma attack plan that will help you respond better to your next asthma attack. Here are some things that may help you prevent springtime asthma attacks:
- Minimize outdoor air exposure during the spring season
- Keep windows closed to prevent allergens from entering the home
- Monitor pollen counts and be vigilant
- Wear a protective mask when doing chores outside
- Take a shower to wash off the pollen after spending time outdoors
- Use an inhaler and take allergy medication when necessary or during springtime, as your doctor prescribes
- Keep a clean house free of dust, pet dander, and mold
- Try to let your pets be outdoors as little as possible
- Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke and smoke-filled areas
What Are the Treatments for Asthma?
There is no cure for asthma, but the symptoms can be successfully managed during a flare-up and the flare-up itself can be prevented. Treatment usually involves a combination of decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, antihistamines, and prescription medications.
Advanced treatment for allergy-induced asthma includes immunotherapy, which introduces you to controlled doses of allergens in order to improve allergy symptoms over time. With proper asthma management, you can live a normal life without very many limitations at all.
Being seasonal in nature, allergy-induced asthma sufferers may assume that there is little or nothing that they can do about their condition, but this is not true. With the help of a doctor who specializes in chronic disease management, you can welcome the arrival of spring and breathe easily.
Asthma Physician in Atoka, Oklahoma
Here at Carrus Care Clinic of Atoka, we believe that chronic diseases and conditions shouldn’t take over your life. We closely manage your health condition and guide your treatment, and make sure it’s working as it should.
To schedule a consultation, contact us today by calling us at (580) 364-8205 or request an appointment online via our simple form. We look forward to providing you with the personalized care you need to live a healthier and happier life.
