Asthma and allergies are different conditions but may often exhibit the same or similar types of symptoms. Allergies are the body's immune system's first line of defense in fighting off unwanted foreign invaders like pollen, mold spores, dust, or even pet dander. Allergic reactions are normal and occur in just about everyone to varying degrees.
Asthma is different than allergies. Although allergies can induce a bout of asthma, or even bring on an asthma attack, it is very different from simple allergies. Asthma is a disease of the bronchial tubes or air passages in the lungs. Asthma can run in families, passed from generation to generation, or it can be acquired at any time in life.
Symptoms of Asthma are Similar to Allergy Symptoms
This is a critical point to understand. While allergy symptoms may be similar to asthma symptoms, it's important to be able to distinguish between the two. Some symptoms may only be associated with asthma, like shortness of breath, tightness in the chest or lungs, pain, coughing, or even wheezing. Yes, some of these may be similar to allergic reactions so there needs to be more investigation of additional symptoms that may indicate asthma.
Symptoms of asthma will most likely be different for every person so it's important to get professional advice and see a doctor. Since symptoms are different for everyone, it's critical to know one's individual, specific symptoms that may signal an oncoming asthma attack. What's even more important is to know ahead of time what to do in case these symptoms show up.
Make an Asthma Control Plan With a Doctor
Asthma is a tricky disease and it's exact cause is not known. It can come upon some folks without any warning, usually early in life. Researchers think that a combination of genetic predisposition and exposure to certain environmental factors tend to cause the disease to develop. It's symptoms are as unique as the 22 million Americans who have asthma, so it's vital to have a plan before asthma strikes.
Consult a doctor and develop a specific asthma treatment plan. This written plan outlines the various specific treatment steps one must take when suspecting the onset of asthma. Asthma may change over a period of time so it's important to check with a doctor on a regular basis to make possible adjustments to one's particular treatment plan. Asthma that is not well controlled increases the likelihood of possible future, more severe asthma attacks.
Asthma Symptoms – It's Time to See a Doctor
In addition to the allergy-like symptoms listed above, other signs of an oncoming asthma attack are moderate to severe shortness of breath and low peak expiratory flow when using a peak flow meter, and when a rescue or quick-relief inhaler does not significantly slow down or stop worsening symptoms.
A doctor can help to outline a written plan or series of treatments that can help to recognize the early warning signs on a possible mild or severe asthma attack. If peak expiratory flow readings improve and symptoms seem to be subsiding, treatment at home will most likely be enough to fend off an attack. If these home treatments don't make the situation better, it may be time to seek help at the local emergency room.
If one experiences severe breathlessness, excessive wheezing at night or early in the morning, cannot speak more than a short phrase due to shortness of breath or must strain the chest muscles to breathe, or when extremely low peak flow meter readings are observed, it's best to seek medical attention immediately as these are most likely the warning signs that a severe asthma attack is imminent.
This article is for informational purposes only. The information provided herein is of a general nature and should not be substituted as advice from a qualified medical professional.
Sources
• WebMD.com; Asthma and Alergies (accessed April 18, 2010)
• MayoClinic.com; Asthma Attack; Symptoms (accessed April 18, 2010)
Mark Oehlert - Mark has 50 years life experience (wisdom comes with age, right?) and over 28 years experience writing copy for ads, articles, marketing ...
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