Asthma & Allergies

What are allergies and asthma?

Allergies are your body's response to a trigger that causes the immune system to overreact. Each person has unique triggers, called allergens, which are harmless substances the body falsely identifies as dangerous to you. Your system responds by releasing chemical messages throughout the body that cause allergy symptoms. 

Asthma is a severe respiratory reaction to an allergy trigger. When exposed to an allergen, someone with this chronic condition experiences difficulty breathing when their airways swell and constrict. Asthma is common in children, who may or may not outgrow the condition as they get older. 

What are common triggers for allergies and asthma?

Common allergens that cause allergic reactions and asthma include:

• Pet dander
• Seasonal plant and tree pollen
• Insect bites
• Food, such as dairy or nuts
• Dust mites
• Mold
• Smoking or second-hand smoke
• Strong-smelling beauty or cleaning products
  
  

Other common asthma triggers include stress, strong emotions, extreme temperatures, airborne chemicals, and respiratory infections. 

What are the symptoms of allergies and asthma?

Symptoms of allergies can range from mild to life-threatening. Allergic reactions are unique to each person, but common symptoms include:

• Itchy eyes or skin
• Coughing or sneezing
• Hives or skin rashes
• Congestion or a runny nose
• Swollen eyes, lips, or face
• Vomiting and diarrhea 
  
  

The sudden onset of asthma in response to a trigger is called an asthma attack. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, coughing, chest tightness, and wheezing. 

What are the treatments for asthma and allergies? 

There is no cure for allergies or asthma, so treatment focuses primarily on identifying and avoiding allergy and asthma triggers. When that is not possible, treatment options focus on treating the symptoms of your allergic reaction. 

Your personalized plan of care may include: 

• Allergy testing
• Allergy shots
• Oral antihistamine medications
• Inhaler medications
• Breathing treatments
• Creams or topical medications
  
  

Dr. Chavez works closely with you to determine your allergy triggers and a treatment plan that effectively relieves your allergy symptoms. He also equips and empowers you to make lifestyle changes that decrease the frequency and severity of your asthma attacks. 

For a personalized treatment plan to relieve your allergies and asthma, call the practice or schedule an appointment online with Pompeyo C Chavez, MD today.