When your breathing ability is impaired from an asthma attack, it can be a frightening experience. Asthma attacks can happen when you are exposed to an allergen. Fortunately, your allergist can help with several effective treatments for both allergies and asthma.

When you have asthma, some of the signs and symptoms you will experience include:

• Episodes of severe coughing and wheezing
• Breathing difficulty, especially when you exercise
• Tightness and discomfort in your chest
• Frequent episodes of bronchitis

You may experience these signs and symptoms when you are exposed to an allergy-causing substance, known as an allergen. Common allergens can be seasonal or last all year long.

Common allergens include:

• Plant and flower pollen
• Trees and grasses
• Mold and mildew
• Dust and dust mites
• Pet dander and pet fur

You can also have food allergies. Common food allergens include:

• Seafood
• Peanuts
• Dairy

Exposure to any of these allergens can cause narrowing of your airways, bringing on an asthma attack.

One of the first steps in asthma treatment is finding out if you are allergic to any substances like those listed above. If you have allergies, you can avoid the substance, and potentially avoid an asthma attack.

Your allergist may treat your allergies with:

• Allergy injections
• Sublingual immunotherapy

Your allergist will also test for asthma by performing a lung function test. If you have asthma, your allergist can prescribe medications to help minimize the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. These medications include:

• Rescue inhalers to help with sudden, acute symptoms
• Long-term asthma medications to provide long-term relief

Remember that a severe allergic response or asthma attack can be a life-threatening event. You need to contact emergency services if you:

• Are severely gasping or wheezing
• Are turning pale due to lack of breath
• Can’t speak because of breathing problems

You don’t have to suffer with asthma and allergies. Your allergist can help you get control of your breathing, so you can live a more active, full life. Call your allergist today.