What is Asthma?
Asthma is a disease that affects the lungs. It causes the airways to narrow and swell, making breathing difficult. Asthma causes repeated episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and coughing.
What are Allergies?
Allergies occur when your immune system responds or reacts to something in your environment. Seasonal allergies to things like dust, mold, and pollen often cause cold-like symptoms. Some people are allergic to pets, insect stings, or specific foods. These allergic reactions can affect your nose, throat, eyes, lungs, skin, stomach, and/or intestines.
How do you treat asthma and allergies?
Both asthma and allergies can be prevented by avoiding the cause of your symptoms. For some allergies this can be simple, such as not eating a certain food. But other times avoiding the cause of asthma or an allergy can be more difficult. Pollen, mold and dust can’t be completely eliminated, but avoiding them can limit your symptoms. Medications, such as over-the-counter treatments for allergies or an inhaler for asthma, can also help alleviate your symptoms.
If asthma or allergies are affecting your life, you may benefit from seeing an allergist. Allergists are specialists at treating asthma and allergies and can help you find a treatment plan that can relieve your suffering.
