Every year starting as early as February and lasting well into the summer, many asthmatics seem to get one of those "springtime colds" that lasts for weeks and never seems to go away. Often what people think is just an irritating prolonged cold are actually allergies. If symptoms include clear nasal discharge and congestion, itchy eyes and ears, no fevers, wheezing, sneezing, or cough and lasts more than 1-2 weeks, the problem may be allergies. Asthmatics should take several steps to accurately diagnose and treat possible seasonal allergies.
1. Find the Culprit-The best way to discover for sure what is aggravating allergy and asthma problems is to have skin prick testing done by a board-certified allergist. Minute amounts of common allergy triggers are pricked, scratched, or injected under the skin and the individual is watched carefully for skin or respiratory reactions. Another way of checking for allergies is done by a blood test and is called radioallergosorbent testing (RAST). RAST testing checks for IgE antibodies that have been produced for different types of allergies. Although this type of testing is a bit easier, it is generally thought to not be as accurate as skin prick testing.
2. Control the Environment-Often springtime allergies include tree pollen, which may travel in the wind for miles. Although tree pollen may not be able to be removed from the outdoors, asthmatics with allergy problems often can at least lower the pollen concentration inside their homes. Windows should be left closed and air conditioners and HEPA air filters used to reduce pollen particles in the air.
3. Medications-Asthmatics with allergies need to discuss with their doctors what types of allergy medications would be most appropriate for them. Several fairly new non-sedating antihistamines are available over-the-counter, but with severe allergies and asthma symptoms, steroid inhalers and nasal sprays may be added. Oral steroids may be recommended for short-term relief from allergies, but are generally not recommended for long-term use due to increased side effects.
4. Allergy desensitization-allergy injections may be an option for moderate-to-severe asthmatics with allergies. Desensitization shots are usually given in an allergist’s office at least weekly for one to two years. Although this can be quite time consuming and expensive, significant relief can be obtained for years after the injections end. These shots contain very small amounts of the offending allergy triggers, and allow the body to slowly build up antibodies to block the allergy reaction.
Over 60% of asthmatics have allergy problems that consistently trigger their symptoms. Several studies have shown that treating even ordinary nasal allergies can often markedly improve asthma. Correctly treated individuals will feel better, have more energy, and will be more able to enjoy the warmer days of spring!
Cheryl Tidball, DO