Allergic asthma affects countless Atlanta residents each year, leading to coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and even anaphylaxis. While there are various asthma treatment options available, finding the best remedy requires the expert guidance of an allergy doctor. If you find your breathing becomes more restricted during allergy season or around dust, pet dander or mold, it might be time to make an appointment with your local allergist.
What Are the Treatment Options for Allergic Asthma?
1. Avoidance of Allergens
Avoidance will not treat the underlying causes of allergy-induced asthma, but it can prevent contact with the allergen. When an individual comes into contact with an allergen, the allergic reaction causes inflammation of the airways and breathing is restricted. So how can you avoid the common causes of allergic asthma?
- Monitor pollen count and stay indoors during high-pollen days.
- To avoid pet dander, keep your pet from accessing certain rooms in the house.
- Clean your air conditioning unit to prevent dust from circulating.
- Clean carpets and rugs to reduce dust.
- Use an air filter to limit allergen presence in your home.
2. Fast-Acting Inhalers
A bronchodilator is an inhaler you can carry with you for use when your breathing is affected by allergies. Using the inhaler will quickly open up the airways to allow you to breathe easier. While not a long-term treatment, when airways become inflamed it will provide relief.
3. Medication for Allergic Asthma
Unfortunately, at this time there is no effective cure for allergic asthma. However, several medications are proving effective in managing asthma caused by allergies. Corticosteroids are used to reduce inflammation and help make breathing easier. Leukotriene modifiers keep the airways open during an allergic response. Beta agonists also open the airways to enable easier breathing. These medications (and more) are often used in combination with other treatments.
4. Natural Remedies for Allergic Asthma
Home remedies won’t be effective as a long-term allergic asthma solution, but they can offer some additional relief. The most common home remedies are saline nasal sprays and nasal rinses. These decongestant treatments will clear nasal passages to improve breathing. And while these treatments won’t prevent inflammation of the airways, they can certainly help with the common symptom of nasal congestion.
5. Immunotherapy Treatment
Sadly, asthma symptoms can go beyond congestion, as many people might experience anaphylaxis from contact with allergens. Immunotherapy may be recommended when allergic asthma is perceived to be a danger to a person’s health. Also known as allergy shots, the treatment involves taking small doses of the allergen until the immune system has built up a tolerance. The process takes months to reach a maintenance level, but patients can reach a point where contact with an allergen doesn’t lead to an allergic reaction.
Get Effective Treatment for Allergic Asthma
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center helps patients with treatment for allergic asthma. When you need proven allergy diagnosis and treatment, visit one of our centers in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth or Johns Creek. For assistance, call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment today.
