The Differences Between Asthma and Allergy

More than 24 million Americans have asthma, with about 60% of this population having asthmatic reactions triggered by allergens. The most prevalent asthma type is allergic asthma. There is often a similarity between asthma & allergies Argyle because they are both caused by your body’s reactions to foreign substances from your environment. These foreign substances may include dander, dust, or pollen.

You should learn the difference between asthma and allergies to be better prepared to manage their symptoms or avoid them.

Subsequently, below are the differences between an allergy and asthma.

Allergy

If you have an allergic reaction the first time you encounter a particular allergen, the body utilizes antibodies to produce immunoglobulin E (IgE). The IgE antibodies get attached to the allergy cells in the respiratory tract, skin, and mucus membrane of the hollow organs of the gastrointestinal tract.

The immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies locate the allergens in your body and help remove them by transporting them to the allergy cells.

Attaching the allergens in the allergy cells to a special receptor triggers the creation of histamine, an organic nitrogenous compound that causes allergic reaction symptoms.

Common causes of allergies usually include certain foods, inhalants, medications, latex, and stinging insects. For instance, foods that may cause your allergy are peanuts, soy, milk, eggs, or wheat.

Also, you may inhale airborne substances that trigger an allergic reaction, such as pet fur, dander, molds, and poop or eggs of a cockroach.

Asthma

Also called bronchial asthma, asthma is characterized by the inflammation and narrowing of your bronchial tubes, which produces extra mucus and makes breathing difficult. You may also cough frequently.

Asthma can be a minor problem or a major issue that may interfere with your routine activities and even threaten your life.

Minor symptoms of asthma are breath shortness, chest pain, wheezing during exhalation, and coughing. And if your condition is becoming worse, you may experience severe signs and symptoms, making you often use a quick-relief inhaler.

Your asthma attack may also be triggered by irritants from the workplace, exercising when it is cold and dry, or airborne substances such as pet dander, pollen, or mold.

Diagnosis of allergies and asthma

Your doctor can diagnose if you have an allergic reaction by performing skin testing. Skin testing involves exposing your skin to different substances to identify the cause of your allergic reaction.

On the other hand, one of the main tests for diagnosing asthma is the FeNO test. The examination involves breathing into a machine to measure the nitric oxide level in your breath, which may indicate lung inflammation.

Treatment of allergies and asthma

Treating allergies is possible using antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays, decongestants, immunotherapy, or nasal saline irrigation.

For instance, nasal saline irrigation uses an over-the-counter device to force a saline solution into your nasal passages to eliminate trapped allergens and mucus. And if you cannot avoid allergens or manage your allergic reactions using medications, your doctor may recommend getting allergy shots.

Currently, there is no cure for asthma. However, you can control asthma symptoms to guarantee a healthier, longer life. You can manage your asthma by breathing in or inhaling your medicine or taking medication in the form of pills.

Contact Argyle Pediatrics today to schedule an appointment with asthma & allergies specialist.