Every year more than 50 million Americans become victims of allergies. Allergies occur very commonly and can cause several issues such as a stuffy nose, watery eyes, and even shortness of breath.
This article will explain how allergies can cause shortness of breath, what triggers an allergy, and the related symptoms that you should know. We will also explain some effective remedies that can bring you at ease.
What causes allergies?
The cause of allergy is the response of our immune system to benign particles that enter our body. These substances can include food ingredients, pet dander, or pollen. Our bodies produce antibodies to protect us from “harmless” particles. The result of this response can result in swollen airways, sinuses, or skin. One can also experience inflammation of the digestive system.
Several types of allergies are possible that can cause shortness of breath.
One of the types is allergic asthma which is caused by environmental triggers such as dander. This can lead to one’s body forming allergic reactions to pollen, mold, dust mites, cats, and dogs (some other animals too.)
Allergies from mold and pollen can be seasonal. But dust mites and dander can be troublesome for the whole year.
How allergies can cause shortness of breath
Environmental allergy can disturb your air passages in two different ways and often result in shortness of breath.
- Hay fever can bother your nose and sinuses. The result can be a scratchy nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing. If you have congestion, it can be hard for you to breathe through your nose.
- If you’ve allergic asthma, the main victims are your lungs, and it can occur for individuals detected with asthma. You may experience chest tightness, wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
Symptoms of allergies
Everyone can be differently affected by allergic reactions. The symptoms and their intensity are based on the particle type and one’s immune system.
Here are some symptoms that you should be aware of.
Hay fever:
- Sneezing
- Scratchy nose
- Itchy eyes
- Irritation on the roof of your mout
- Stuffy nose
- Watery eyes
Allergic asthma:
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Chest tightness
- Wheezing
Insect sting allergy:
- Swelling at the sting site
- Hives
- Difficulty breathing
- Anaphylaxis
- Coughing
- Tightness in the chest
Food allergy:
- Itchy mouth
- Inflammation of the lips, throat, or face
- Anaphylaxis
Drug allergy:
- Itchy areas of skin
- Watery eyes
- Rashes
- Anaphylaxis
- Inflammation around the face
- Wheezing
Remedies for allergies
The best way to minimize the symptoms of allergies is to consult your doctor. They can provide you with the right treatment according to your health.
Schedule an appointment with Pulmonary Medical Consultants by calling (281) 357-1300.
Below are some guidelines that you can follow to help yourself.
Wash up after going outside:
If you went outside for a run or walk, pollen may be lingering on your hair or clothes. When back home, take a shower and remove any substances from your hair and skin.
Avoid mowing the lawn:
Ask a friend or family member to help you with the grass cutting.
Stay inside:
Try to stay inside on dry and windy days.
Install an air filter:
Buy an air filter to improve the quality of air inside the house.