Avoid springtime allergens to reduce symptoms of asthma

MILWAUKEE – Spring is here and for 40 to 50 million Americans, so are allergies. Allergic diseases, such as allergic asthma, affect more than 20% of the population, and are the sixth leading cause of chronic disease in the United States.

Allergic asthma is characterized by inflammation of the bronchial tubes. The muscles of the bronchial walls tighten and extra mucus is produced, causing the airways to narrow. The result could range from a frequent tendency for cough, to minor and severe difficulty in breathing. In some cases, breathing may be so labored that an asthma attack becomes life threatening.

"Allergic asthma is the most common form of asthma," said Sheldon L. Spector, MD, FAAAAI, and Chair of the AAAAI's Asthma Diagnosis Committee. "Asthma is considered allergic when symptoms become more intense, perhaps resulting in an asthma attack, when the individual is exposed to allergens to which their immune system is sensitive."

About 60% of asthma attacks are caused by allergens, such as forest fire smoke, pollen and animal dander. Other allergens, such as dust mites, mold and cockroaches, can also trigger a reaction.

Symptoms of allergic and non-allergic asthma are similar. They include:

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath or rapid breathing
• Chest tightness

Managing asthma
Allergens cannot be totally avoided, especially in the spring. Asthma management includes using proper medications to prevent and control asthma symptoms, and to reduce airway inflammation. Therefore, asthma medications are categorized into two general classes, quick-relief and long-term control medications.

The following tips can be used to help reduce attacks caused by allergens:

• Watch for ozone alerts. These alerts will keep you aware of the potential triggers for the day.
• Minimize outdoor activity on days when temperatures are excessively high.
• Take medications as prescribed in the recommended dosage. Do not take more medication to ease severe symptoms without consulting your doctor.
• Use an air conditioner in both your home and car to keep air clean, cool and dry.
• Do not stand directly behind cars that are running. Exhaust fumes could trigger an asthma attack.

When to see an allergy/asthma specialist
The better informed you are about your asthma triggers and management, the less asthma symptoms will interfere with your activities. It is important to avoid your triggers, work with your allergist/immunologist on a management plan and take appropriate medications as prescribed.

The AAAAI's How the Allergist/Immunologist Can Help: Consultation and Referral Guidelines Citing the Evidence provide information to assist patients and health care professionals in determining when a patient may need consultation or ongoing specialty care by the allergist/immunologist. Patients should see an allergist/immunologist if they:

• Need to confirm the diagnosis of asthma.
• Have asthma and see their symptoms get worse after a new pet has been introduced into the home.
• Have a history of seasonal or persistent asthma, to evaluate their sensitivity to inhaled allergens and provide instructions regarding avoidance measures.
• Need education on asthma and guidance in techniques for self-management.
• Need daily asthma reliever medications.
• Are not using medications as prescribed, and this is limiting their ability to control their asthma.

To find an allergist/immunologist in your area or to learn more about allergies and asthma, call the AAAAI's Physician Referral and Information Line at (800) 822-2762 or visit the AAAAI Web site at www.aaaai.org.

The AAAAI represents allergists, asthma specialists, clinical immunologists, allied health professionals and others with a special interest in the research and treatment of allergic disease. Established in 1943, the AAAAI has more than 6,500 members in the United States, Canada and 60 other countries. The AAAAI serves as an advocate to the public by providing educational information and a physician referral directory through its Web site at www.aaaai.org.

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