Learn more about asthma symptoms triggered by allergy

Does taking a stroll in the park cause you to sneeze repeatedly? If yes, then you may have nasal allergy, also known as allergic rhinitis. An allergy occurs when your body perceives a foreign particle as a threat when it’s really not. Allergic rhinitis is an allergy specifically affecting your nose. Symptoms show up when you breathe in something that you are allergic to such as dust, pollen grains, smoke, dander and so on.

Typical symptoms of allergic rhinitis include constant sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes and itching in the eyes and nose. In such a situation, it is always preferable to identify and avoid triggers that cause the allergic reaction. Also, getting proper treatment can help you control the symptoms. Treatments include antihistamines, decongestants, eye drops and nasal sprays amongst others. If ignored, allergic rhinitis can lead to nasal polyps, sinusitis, and conjunctivitis and asthma complications.

Further, a nasal allergy can also cause an asthma attack in many people. Studies show that allergic asthma is the most common type of asthma. In case of allergic asthma, the immune system of the person overreacts when the allergens enter the body. It leads to inflammation of the airways and may lead to the formation of thick mucus. Irrespective of the type of asthma, allergic or non-allergic, the person generally suffers from typical asthma symptoms after inhaling any of the allergens.

You may suffer from breathlessness, coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and so on. Further, irritants such as smoke, cold air, strong odours and perfumes may not necessarily cause an allergic reaction but can lead to an asthma attack. Bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory drugs are often used to control allergic asthma. Patients are advised to stay in their homes when the pollen count is high outside, avoid dusty areas, and keep their surroundings clean and so on.

Also, your doctor may recommend using short and long acting bronchodilators to relieve asthma symptoms. Short acting bronchodilators are generally used to provide immediate relief during an asthma attack. They open up the airways in your lungs and the effect lasts for around 6 hours. Long acting bronchodilators are used regularly by asthmatic patients. The effect lasts longer for up to 12 hours.

So if taking a walk in the park is doing more harm than good, get yourself checked by a doctor for allergic rhinitis or asthma. Explain the symptoms clearly and ask any questions that may be raised by the doctor. This will help the doctor to establish an early and correct diagnosis.

Dr. Avni Deshmukh is an expert medical consultant in Mumbai (India). To know more about symptoms, cure and treatment of Asthma, Cough etc for adults and children..