Allergies are common, with many experiencing the reaction with mild symptoms requiring no treatment while others struggle with allergic asthma, which can be overwhelming. Allergies result from an abnormal immune system response when exposed to certain substances the system deems harmful, triggering a chemical release to attack the allergen. Bastrop asthma & allergies can result in breathing difficulties as the airways tighten following exposure to the allergen. The simplest measure to manage allergic asthma is allergen avoidance. Nonetheless, this process requires certain measures to realize the best results. Among the hacks that can facilitate better allergic asthma management includes:
Understand the symptoms
Allergic asthma’s common symptoms are chest tightness, shortness of breath, wheezing, and frequent coughs, primarily at night, often seen in other asthma types. The symptoms are often intense and require assistance, such as using an inhaler to ease the attacks. You could also experience less intense symptoms, mostly seen in allergic attacks. They include a runny nose, rash, hives, sneezing, and itchy eyes. Understanding the symptoms can help you take the right steps from their onset to alleviate their intensity.
Know the allergens
Establishing the allergens makes it easier to avoid them. Allergic asthma tends to be triggered by inhaled allergens. The main culprits include pet dander, dust mites, pollen, mold, and cockroaches, mainly their feces and saliva. Once you have a clear picture of the main allergens, you will have an easier time avoiding them, like investing in an air purifier and keeping your home clean and well-ventilated.
The tricky part is that you could be allergic to one or more allergens, but professional care can help narrow them and learn more about the best measures to manage or mitigate their exposure. Moreover, you may sometimes experience an allergic asthma attack from other allergens beyond the inhalable ones, such as foods. This makes it trickier to avoid allergens since narrowing down such aspects is difficult without a professional diagnosis.
Medication
Medication can help alleviate the attack’s intensity. Medication is critical in some cases, especially if allergies like food trigger an asthma attack since the reaction could be severe. A severe allergy is called anaphylaxis; without prompt medical intervention, it can be fatal. Ensuring you are well equipped to handle such emergencies is critical, often through shots. Even after home care and allergy intensity drops, you should see your doctor for a follow-up to mitigate complications chances.
Have an action plan
If you don’t have an action plan, mental challenges will be at the center of your life, which can trigger or worsen attacks. You will often be overly worried about allergens or what to do when exposed or notice symptoms onset. An action plan helps you to be more in control. This makes it easier to lead an active and productive life.
Allergies and asthma can be overwhelming. Nonetheless, once you get the hang of the management measures, you will have an easier time leading a more active and fulfilling life. Proper diagnosis is the foundation of your management efforts, allowing you to understand the allergens, symptoms, and medications you can use. Contact Pompeyo Chavez, MD, today for more on allergic asthma.