Seasonal allergies can be debilitating if your symptoms are severe enough. No one wants to battle itchy eyes and a runny nose day in and day out.
Unfortunately, if you are someone who consistently suffers from allergy symptoms, you may also be at a heightened risk of developing seasonal asthma at some point in life as well.
The triggers of allergies and asthma often go hand in hand, and that is why we see such a strong relationship between the two diagnoses. If you are concerned that your allergies may lead to asthma, let our team at AFC Urgent Care Hickory walk you through the relationship between the two conditions below.
What Are the Similarities Between Asthma and Allergies?
When you experience allergies, your body is recognizing the environmental hazard as an invader, and your immune system works to attack it. This is similar to asthma, as your body is reacting to an external threat and your airway becomes irritated and inflamed in response. If your lung function is already compromised due to environmental factors, you may be more sensitive to developing asthma.
If you know what typically triggers your allergies, you can assume that prolonged exposure to those triggers can eventually lead to an asthma diagnosis. Below are some common allergy/asthma triggers.
Common Contributing Factors
- Pollen
- Hot weather
- Cold weather
- Mold and mildew
Is It Possible to Prevent Seasonal Asthma?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to completely avoid developing seasonal asthma. Like most diseases, you will have to take care of yourself every day and avoid your common triggers to reduce your risk as best you can.
Avoid the hazards that most affect you and try to surround yourself with a clean and supportive environment every day. All of this works together to give your lungs the best possible chance to avoid asthma!
Tips to Support Your Lung Function
- Wash your pillows and sheets frequently.
- Get your carpets cleaned or steamed regularly.
- Limit outdoor activity when the pollen count is high.
- Keep your home free of mold or mildew.
Your seasonal asthma shouldn’t define you! If you have questions about your allergies and asthma symptoms, come see us AFC Urgent Care Hickory.
