Spring is in the air. For those with asthma or seasonal allergies, this can often spell trouble. We have tips to help you relax and understand what commonly triggers symptoms. Learn how to tell the conditions apart. Plus, uncover how you can keep your family feeling healthy, no matter the season. Is it asthma or allergies? Either way, we have tips to help you get relief quickly.
Understanding allergies
Allergies can be chronic or seasonal. They’re caused when materials or substances, known as allergens, create an overreactive response from your immune system. Common allergens often include pollen, dust and pet dander. If you have seasonal allergies, you may be particularly sensitive to pollen released from trees, grasses and weeds in fall and spring. Symptoms of seasonal allergies, also called hay fever, are sneezing, congestion and itchy or watery eyes.
Tips to get allergy relief quickly
Over-the-counter medicines may help with seasonal allergies. These can include antihistamines, decongestants or nasal sprays. Your doctor or pharmacist can help you find the best options. Drinking more water can also help. Oftentimes, the best prevention is limiting your exposure to allergens. To do this, try tips such as:
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- Keeping doors and windows closed.
- Vacuuming regularly.
- Giving pets a bath.
- Washing clothes immediately after being outside.
- Using an air filter in your home.
- Staying indoors when pollen counts are very high.
How to tell if it’s asthma
So, how do allergies differ from asthma? Asthma is a chronic condition affecting around eight percent of the population. It’s a long-term disease, in which airways in the lungs to become narrowed and inflamed, making breathing very difficult. Many of the symptoms may be similar to allergies. However, telltale signs of asthma include: wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath and tightness in the chest. Asthma must be properly diagnosed by a doctor. If you suspect you or your child may have asthma, you should talk to your provider. They’ll be able to review symptoms and run tests to asses breathing and lung function.
Managing asthma and avoiding triggers
Treatment for asthma typically involves a combination of quick-relief medications (such as rescue inhalers) and long-term prescription medicines to control symptoms. Treatments may vary depending on the severity of the disease. If you have it, it’s also very helpful to avoid your known triggers. Asthma triggers are any factors that can make your symptoms worse or cause an attack. These will vary from person to person. However, common triggers include allergens (like pollen, dust mites, mold or pet dander), irritants (such as smoke and air pollution) or respiratory infections, like a cold or the flu . Exercise, cold air, strong emotions and certain medications can also trigger asthma symptoms in some individuals.
Check with your doctor or pharmacist
We hope these tips help you get relief quickly and stay healthy all season long. Remember, it’s always best to consult with your health care provider before beginning a treatment plan. Your doctor or pharmacist can offer advice, review treatment options and answer your health related questions.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant as medical advice.
