Why Is Seasonal Allergies Associated With Asthma And Wheezing
People suffering from both asthma and seasonal allergies experience symptoms because their immune systems are over-sensitive to substances normally encountered daily. This includes pollen which we typically associate with seasonal allergies.
When your body overreacts to pollen, respiratory airways become inflamed and more mucus is produced to trap the pollen particles. This causes your airways to narrow, in turn making it more difficult for you to breathe.
For many seasonal allergies sufferers this only affects the upper respiratory tract and symptoms are few and mild. However, in those who are prone to asthma, inflammation affects a larger part of the respiratory system. This leads to a greater and deeper degree of inflammation, worsening asthma symptoms.
This is when the sufferer experiences tightness in the chest. As they breathe, the air passes through these narrowed passages, and creates a whistling sound as it goes. This whistling sound is called wheezing.
Key Points About Rhinitis
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Rhinitis is a reaction that happens in the eyes, nose, and throat when allergens in the air trigger histamine to be released in the body.
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Some of the most common causes of rhinitis are pollen, dust mites, mold, cockroach waste, animal dander, fumes and odors, hormonal changes, and smoke.
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Symptoms of rhinitis include: sneezing, stuffy, runny, and itchy nose, and itchy throat, eyes, and ears, nosebleeds, clear drainage from the nose, ear infections that keep coming back, snoring, breathing through the mouth, and tiredness.
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Treatment for rhinitis includes: medicines, allergy shots, and surgery for some health problems
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Preventive measures for rhinitis include avoiding what you are allergic to.
Johns Hopkins Pediatric Otolaryngology
Our pediatric otolaryngologists are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care for children with ear, nose, and throat conditions. As part of the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center, you have access to all the specialized resources of a children’s hospital. Your child will also benefit from experts who use advanced techniques to treat both common and rare conditions.
What Home Remedies Are There For Nasal Congestion
Congestion is a common symptom of many conditions including seasonal allergies, colds, flu and any infection of the upper respiratory tract. For this reason, there are many home remedies which have been used to ease this irritating symptom.
Drink plenty of fluids such as water or tea as this helps to thin and loosen the excess mucus, easing the congestion. It also helps you to keep hydrated which will prevent further irritation to the back of your throat or nose. It is important not to drink anything which may dehydrate you, such as coffee or alcoholInhale steam as this also helps to thin the mucus. You can do this by holding your head over a steaming bowl of water , by breathing in fumes from a cup of tea or bowl or soup. Having a hot steamy shower may also ease your congestionSome people find that covering their face with warm, slightly damp towels helps to clear their nasal passages, making it easier to breathe. If you are also suffering from sinus pain, you may find this helps to ease the painKeep your head elevated as this helps to keep the mucus draining away in the correct direction. If you bend over, then the mucus will collect in the nasal passages rather than drain.
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Symptoms Of Dog Congestion
Sighting dog congestion signs and symptoms can help precisely decipher the underlying cause of a stuffy nose. The following are common symptoms of congestion in dogs:
- Nasal discharge and nose swelling
- Difficulty breathing and heavy breathing
- Dog breathing fast
What Are The Types Of Rhinitis
There are several types of rhinitis:
- Allergic rhinitis is caused by allergies to substances called allergens.
- Seasonal allergic rhinitis is sometimes called hay fever. But, people with seasonal allergic rhinitis do not have to have a fever and do not have to be exposed to hay to develop this condition. It is an allergic reaction to pollen from trees, grasses and weeds. This type of rhinitis occurs mainly in the spring and fall, when pollen from trees, grasses and weeds are in the air.
- Perennial allergic rhinitis is caused by allergens that are present all year long. The primary causes of this type of rhinitis are allergies to dust mites, mold, animal dander and cockroach debris.
- Non-allergic rhinitis is not caused by allergens. Smoke, chemicals or other irritating environmental conditions may provoke non-allergic rhinitis. Hormonal changes, physical defects of the nose and the overuse of nose sprays may also cause it. Sometimes medications cause it. Often, the cause of this type of rhinitis is not well understood. But it is common in patients with non-allergic asthma. The symptoms are similar to allergy symptoms.
- Infectious rhinitis is possibly the most common type of rhinitis. It is also known as the common cold or upper respiratory infection . Colds occur when a cold virus settles into the mucous membranes of the nose and sinus cavities and causes an infection.
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Learn How To Manage Symptoms
The good news is that todays treatments for asthma and allergies mainly medication and inhalers are very effective.
Theyre relatively easy to use and have minimal side effects, Dr. Purcell says. When symptoms are more severe or do not respond to other measures, allergy shots is very effective.
One option that should not be on the table is letting allergic asthma ruin your quality of life. The goal is to manage your condition so that it never limits the activities you love because they trigger an allergic reaction, he says.
Working with your doctor will help you find a treatment plan that works for you.
Puppies And Kittens Often Have Intestinal Worms
Although puppies and kittens do not become infected with roundworms in utero, they often become infected from their mothers milk if they are carriers.
Roundworms can cause symptoms like:
- Coughing
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
If allowed to get big enough, roundworms can end up in the lungs, sometimes causing Pneumonia and other serious illnesses.
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Prescription Medications For Lung Congestion
If you have a bacterial infection causing your lung congestion, such as bacterial bronchitis or pneumonia, you will likely need to take antibiotics to treat your lung congestion. On the other hand, if the cause of your lung congestion is viral, you may need an antiviral medication.
Antibiotics fight off the harmful bacteria that cause lung congestion, while antivirals fight off viral infections that can contribute to lung congestion. If your lung congestion symptoms persist after at-home remedies and over-the-counter treatment, be sure to talk to a doctor about your treatment options or to get an antibiotic prescription.
History And Physical Examination
Your physical examination will include checking your vital signs, such as your temperature, pulse, and breathing rate. A fever can be an indication of an infection. Rapid breathing or a rapid heart rate can be a sign of a severe infection or an impending asthma attack.
Your healthcare provider will listen to your breathing sounds with a stethoscope, which will help determine whether your congestion is on one side of the lungs or both.
- Generally, with asthma and allergies, congestion affects both lungs.
- Congestion can be limited to one lung or one section of a lung when there is another cause, such as an infection.
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What Does White Snot Mean
If youre feeling congested or stuffy, you may notice your snot is white. You may also experience swelling or inflammation in your nose and a slow flow of nasal mucus. Being stuffy makes your snot lose its water content. It becomes thick and even cloudy, both signs that you may have a cold or infection brewing.
The common cold can make you feel generally unwell. Your symptoms will usually develop between one and three days after being exposed to the virus. Children are particularly prone to colds. Adults, on the other hand, may experience between two and three colds each year.
Other symptoms include:
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Can Allergies Cause Mucus In Lungs
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Likewise, can allergies cause chest congestion and mucus?
One common overlapping symptom is chest congestion with a phlegmy cough. Allergies can also cause chest congestion and a bad cough due to mucus from the nasal sinuses dripping down the back of the throat .
One may also ask, can allergies affect your lungs? Allergic reactions can cause symptoms in your nose, lungs, throat, sinuses, ears, lining of the stomach or on the skin. Allergies can also trigger symptoms of asthma, making it more difficult to breathe. And pollen isn’t the only spring allergy and asthma trigger.
Secondly, can allergies cause mucus?
Seasonal allergies can lead to a runny or stuffy nose, as well as excess mucus and phlegm. 14. Chemicals, fragrances, and pollution can irritate the nose, throat, and lower airways. This causes the body to produce more mucus.
How can I get rid of mucus in my lungs naturally?
A person can soothe symptoms and get rid of bothersome mucus using the following methods:
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When To See A Healthcare Provider
Chest congestion can be a nagging effect of asthma. If you are experiencing chest congestion that does not seem to be improving, you should see your healthcare provider.
Since chest congestion in asthma can be a sign that you have an infection or that your asthma or allergies are not well controlled, you might need treatment to help relieve the underlying problem.
How Allergic Asthma Leads To Decreased Lung Capacity
Just as some people may experience skin irritation or swollen eyes, some patients can experience reactions in their airways, leading to asthma symptoms. When you breathe in an allergen, small particles become lodged in your throat and lungs causing allergic asthma. This condition is very common in patients with seasonal and year-round allergies alike including those with environmental and food allergies as well.
Common Conditions for Patients with Asthma
Allergens cause inflammation in the lungs which if left untreated can cause permanent damage to your lungs and lung capacity. This can be dangerous for patients who are already at high risk of viral infections such as COVID-19, who may experience an extremely hard time breathing if they become sick. Patients with asthma and breathing troubles are also at a higher risk of developing bronchitis, some patients developing a chronic form that occurs every few months.
Patients may also develop a hypersensitivity to allergens, known as hypersensitivity pneumonitis. This type of allergic reaction causes inflammation of the lungs air sacs, further decreasing your lung function.
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What Causes Chest Congestion And How To Get Rid Of It
Written byBel Marra HealthPublished onJuly 7, 2017
Chest congestion is a common respiratory symptom that could be an indication of the flu or cold. However, there are also cases where it can be a sign of a more serious health issue, like an infection or heart disease.
Most people understand that chest congestion is a sign of excessive mucus in the lower airway. It is normally due to inflammation of the airways and lungs and involves some degree of restricted airflow. Chest congestion can be really uncomfortable. For some individuals, it can even be painful because the lungs fill up with excess mucus and other fluids. Coughing is the bodys natural way of getting rid of the mucus that has built up.
Identify The Early Signs Of Possible Breathing Allergies
Posted 9:23 pm | by test design team | Blog
Breathing allergies affect your daily life, but early detection can limit the impact and help you breathe easy. Learning the early signs and symptoms of an allergy to mold, dust, pollen or other airborne irritants helps you recognize when to call an experienced pulmonary doctor for testing and treatment.
The Development Of Respiratory Allergies
Respiratory allergies develop when your body reacts to specific irritants in the air. Not everyone reacts the same way to the same substances. Some common triggers for breathing-related allergies include mold, dust mites, pollen and pet dander.
Sometimes allergy symptoms are seasonal, so you may notice that they only develop at certain times of year. Situational allergies might develop only when youre in the presence of the trigger, so you may notice breathing problems when around pets, for example, but the symptoms go away once you leave the room or the pet owners home.
Your allergy could be quite different from a friends allergic reaction, so dont rely on someone elses symptoms to diagnose or rule out your own allergies. Some people have seasonal allergies in the fall or spring, while others might experience allergy symptoms year-round. Symptoms might exist at a consistent low level throughout the day or get worse when you go outside or move indoors, depending on the particular allergen setting off a reaction.
Common Early Symptoms Of Breathing Allergies
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So How Can You Tell If Your Cough Is Due To Allergies
First, evaluate the typeof cough you have. Allergies can cause a dry cough or wet cough , Dr. Bassett says, but post-nasal drip typically leads to a dry cough. The AAAI also points to a chronicdry coughmeaning it has lasted for more than three weeksas a sign of allergies.
You can also determine the difference by looking at the bigger picture and seeing what other symptoms are present, Dr. Bassett says. Seasonal allergies often present with an itchy nose, throat, and eyes, which is pretty uncommon with respiratory illnesses.
And one thing allergies definitely wont cause? A fever, which is typical with viruses that lead to the common cold, flu, and COVID-19. Still not sure? Ask yourself these questions:
- How did your coughing start? Colds tend to come on slowly, while allergies kick in as soon as youve been exposed to an allergen.
- Are you itchy? Itchingespecially in your nose, eyes, or throatis a classic sign of allergies.
- Do you have a fever or body aches? Respiratory illnesses can cause both, but allergies dont.
- How long have your symptoms lasted? If your symptoms stick around for weeks or even months, allergies are probably to blame.
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When To See Your Gp
Speak to your GP if your catarrh persists and is becoming difficult to live with.
They may want to rule out conditions that could be causing it, such as nasal polyps or allergies. This may mean you need to be referred to a specialist for tests.
If you’re diagnosed with a specific underlying condition, treating it may help relieve your catarrh. For example, nasal polyps may be treated with a steroid nasal spray, or in some cases surgery.
If a cause for you catarrh cannot be found, the self-help techniques above may be recommended. Unfortunately, however, chronic catarrh can be hard to treat and may last for a long time.
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Weakened Immune System While Pregnant
During pregnancy the immune system is very much lowered, so dont be much surprised if you catch various coughs.
See you doctor if you have:
- A very persistent cough or youre bringing up a fluid especially when you cough
- You might also feel very much sick
- You are also experiencing a temperature that keeps rising even after taking paracetamol
- You are experiencing a high temperature, coughing up the green mucus in nose, and generally feel much unwell.
All these symptoms might be an indication that a person has a chest infection. The doctor is able to prescribe various antibiotics. If the chest infection is left much untreated, it may affect the unborn baby.
What Does White Phlegm Mean
You may experience white phlegm with several health conditions.
White phlegm is commonly caused by:
Viral bronchitis:This condition may start off with white phlegm. If it progresses into a bacterial infection, it may lead to yellow and green phlegm.
GERD: This chronic condition affects your digestive system. It may cause you to cough up thick, white sputum.
COPD: This condition causes your airways to narrow and your lungs to produce excess mucus. The combination makes it hard for your body to get oxygen. With this condition, you may experience white sputum.
Congestive heart failure: This occurs when your heart isnt effectively pumping blood to the rest of your body. Fluids build up in different areas leading to edema. Fluid collects in the lungs and may lead to an increase in white sputum. You may also experience shortness of breath.
You should seek immediate medical attention if youre having difficulty breathing.
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Bacterial And Viral Infections
Infections such as the flu, acute bronchitis, and pneumonia can cause your airways to make extra mucus, which youll often cough up. It may be green or yellow in color.
The new coronavirus that causes COVID-19 doesnt usually cause mucus in the chest. But complications from the virus can include pneumonia, which does involve chest congestion.
So What Can You Do To Help Make Kids Feel Better As I Always Say: Water Water Water
Increase fluids that kids drink. Really push water. And unless a child is allergic to milk, it is an old wives tale that milk will make the mucus worse. If thats what they want, they can have milk with a cold. What really needs to happen is to get the mucus out. Using saline along with a strong blowing of the nose is important. Other treatment tactics may include: warm steam inhalation or a humidifier to help clear mucus. Additionally, over-the-counter cold and cough medications can help to clear out congestion. Infants and younger children may struggle to blow forcefully enough to get the mucus out. I recommend nasal aspirators that seal outside the nose and have a continuous flow of air. Check out How to use the Nosefrida. A similar nasal cleaner is available from Nasopure.
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