Allergies and asthma are extremely common chronic health conditions in the United States. In fact, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, approximately 24 million Americans, six million of which are children, deal with asthma while over 50 million Americans, or about 15 percent, suffer from allergies. Many struggle with both conditions. Thankfully, researchers are always finding new ways to treat these chronic, potentially life-threatening conditions. Here is what you need to know.
What Is An Allergy?
An allergy is a hyperactive response by the body's immune system to a foreign substance. While the substance is typically something that is harmless to most people, such as peanuts or shellfish, it may also be to a drug, like penicillin.
What Is Asthma?
Asthma is a respiratory condition rather than strictly an immune system response. When a person inhales a trigger, it sets off a reaction whereby their breathing passages and the muscles surrounding them become constricted, making it difficult to move air in and out of their lungs. Common triggers include common allergens like cigarette smoke, household dust, and pet dander, which is why many people have both conditions. Even breathing in cold winter air can trigger an attack. Unfortunately, asthma attacks can be fatal in some individuals, and about 10 Americans die every day from asthma.
How Are Allergies And Asthma Treated?
There are several different options available to treat allergies. Nasal sprays are a common treatment. These are available both over the counter and through prescription. Steroid nasal sprays reduce the amount of mucous and inflammatory congestion in the nasal passageway. They don't work immediately, however. They must be used regularly to work most effectively, so doctors recommend using them daily, especially during allergy season. Antihistamine nasal sprays work similarly, but they also help control post-nasal drip. This is when excess mucus runs down the back of the throat, which can lead to chronic irritation and a sore throat. Saline or saltwater sprays are another option to keep nasal passages dry. Antihistamines, decongestants, and steroids are also available in pill form to treat allergies.
These sprays and tablets work best for allergies like hay fever. They do not work for common food allergies. Food allergies cannot be routinely treated; the offending substance must be avoided. Inadvertent consumption must be treated with epinephrine (adrenalin) to counteract anaphylaxis, which is an emergency. People with food allergies must always be diligent and carry an injection such as EpiPen to stop an attack.
To treat asthma, inhalers are used as well as specific medications. Leukotriene modifiers are drugs that block the offending leukotrienes from causing a reaction while Anti-Immunoglobulin E (IgE) therapy decreases the allergic response to the asthma triggers.
For more information, get in touch with a company such as Allergy Asthma Specialists.
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