Treating you well since 1948 Spring allergies can wreak havoc on asthma symptoms by creating additional airway inflammation. Sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose or throat, watery eyes, wheezing, and coughing can create additional difficulty breathing. If allergies are aggravating your asthma, it is important to come up with a plan to prevent reactions to help decrease your airway inflammation.
Stay on top of medications
For some asthmatics, winter does not create complications and they do not need additional support in the way of prescription medications. If you find that your asthma is exacerbated during the spring, it is important to get medications up-to-date so that you are ready in case of a reaction. Your doctor might prescribe a rescue inhaler as well as a prophylactic medication such as Qvar or Flovent to help prevent issues.
Allergy testing
If you believe that allergies are triggering asthma reactions, you might want to seek out allergy testing to determine the main culprit. An allergist can help to create a specialized treatment plan for your symptoms to help reduce your reaction to those allergens. Allergy testing generally includes either a blood test or skin scratch testing.
Allergy medications.
If the allergist finds that you do have several allergic triggers, they will most likely prescribe allergy medication. Take these prescriptions and noted by your healthcare provider to ensure that you are on top of your symptoms. Medications might include oral dosage as well as steroid nasal sprays. Another option that might be prescribed by your doctor is a monthly immunotherapy shot to help reduce the reaction your body has to specific allergens. The therapy can take up to three years to show its full benefit.
Avoid allergens
The highest pollen counts of the day typically occur in the morning. If you are able, try to stay indoors from 5 a.m. until 10 a.m. Air conditioning can also help to limit your exposure to allergens during peak hours.
Evening showers
Showering in the evening can make a big difference with regard to allergies. Throughout the day, allergens can collect on your skin, clothing and in your hair. Showering will help to wash pollen, dust and other allergens from your body and make you more comfortable at night.
Allergy season can be miserable. If you or someone you know is suffering from asthma symptoms because of seasonal allergies, contact the compassionate healthcare providers at Bond Clinic.
