Allergic reactions occur when the immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances, significantly impacting the respiratory system and causing symptoms from mild irritation to severe breathing difficulties. Knowing how allergies affect breathing and the appropriate steps to take can help manage these situations.
Why Allergies Affect Breathing
Allergies cause breathing difficulties when the immune system mistakenly identifies an allergen as a threat. This triggers the release of chemicals like histamine, causing inflammation and swelling in the airways. This inflammation narrows the bronchial tubes, a condition known as bronchospasm. Increased mucus production and swelling of the airway lining also contribute to this narrowing, making it harder to breathe. Common allergens that trigger these respiratory issues include pollen, dust mites, and pet dander.
Immediate Steps to Take
If you experience breathing difficulties due to allergies, remove yourself from the suspected allergen. Moving indoors or leaving the area helps reduce the immediate reaction. Remaining calm is important, as anxiety can worsen breathing difficulties.
Finding a comfortable position, such as sitting upright, can ease breathing by allowing the lungs to expand. For mild to moderate symptoms, over-the-counter antihistamines like diphenhydramine or loratadine can reduce the body’s allergic response. Oral decongestants such as pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine might also alleviate nasal congestion, indirectly improving breathing. However, these medications offer symptomatic relief and may not be sufficient for significant breathing issues.
If you have a prescribed rescue inhaler, such as albuterol, use it as directed. These inhalers rapidly open airways, providing quick relief from bronchospasm. Sipping water can also help thin excess mucus, making it easier to clear. Monitor your symptoms and be prepared to take further action if they worsen.
Recognizing When to Seek Emergency Care
It is important to distinguish between manageable allergic reactions and those requiring immediate medical attention. Signs of a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, include severe shortness of breath, wheezing, or gasping sounds. Other indicators are a tight feeling in the chest or throat, difficulty speaking or swallowing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. A rapid or weak pulse, along with dizziness, fainting, or confusion, also signals a medical emergency. A blue tinge to the lips or fingertips indicates a lack of oxygen and is a serious warning sign.
If any of these severe symptoms appear, call emergency services immediately. For individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions, an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) may be prescribed. Administer the auto-injector as prescribed at the first sign of a severe reaction, even before emergency services arrive. Even after using an EpiPen, seek professional medical attention, as symptoms can recur. Do not attempt to drive yourself or someone experiencing severe symptoms to the hospital; wait for emergency medical personnel.
Managing Allergies for Better Breathing
Long-term management of allergies involves minimizing exposure to known allergens to reduce the frequency and severity of breathing issues. Practical steps include keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons, using HEPA air filters in your home, and regularly cleaning to reduce dust mites and pet dander. Encasing mattresses and pillows in allergen-proof covers can also significantly reduce exposure to dust mites during sleep.
Consulting a doctor or allergist is important for effective allergy management. A healthcare professional can identify specific allergens triggering your reactions, providing a basis for a targeted management plan. They may prescribe long-term control medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids or leukotriene modifiers, which prevent symptoms by reducing inflammation in the airways over time.
Allergy immunotherapy, including allergy shots or sublingual tablets, can also be considered. This treatment gradually desensitizes the immune system to specific allergens, potentially reducing the severity of reactions over time. For individuals whose allergies trigger asthma, developing a comprehensive asthma action plan with a doctor is important to manage both conditions effectively. Creating a personalized emergency action plan with your healthcare provider is advisable to prepare for future allergic reactions.