Asthma symptoms are complicated, especially when triggered by allergies

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (April 15 , 2025)   - Did you know about 24 million people in the United States have asthma, representing roughly 8% of the population? May is Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, a time when  allergists want you to know a few facts about how allergies and asthma are related, and how you can better control your asthma symptoms.

“Allergic asthma, a type of asthma triggered by allergens, is particularly challenging because it can be difficult to control,” says James Tracy, DO, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “Unfortunately, many people believe their asthma is well controlled when it really isn’t, making it even harder to manage. Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month is an important time to focus on the connection between allergic asthma and allergies, as well as the challenges of symptom control, and the critical role of an allergist in diagnosing and treating both children and adults.”

Controlling Asthma Is a Challenge

For those with allergic asthma, allergens like pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mold trigger the inflammation that causes asthma. One of the biggest challenges is that symptoms can vary in intensity and frequency. Many asthma patients experience periods when they feel symptom-free, which can lead them to believe their asthma is under control. However, even during these symptom-free periods, asthma may still be active in the background, with ongoing inflammation in the airways that can worsen over time.

Additionally, asthma can be unpredictable, and flare-ups may be triggered by environmental factors like weather changes, air pollution, stress, or even laughter. This makes it a condition that requires constant attention and management. Studies show that more than 50% of asthma patients are not adequately managing their symptoms, and many do not recognize early warning signs of an impending flare-up. As a result, they may not take preventive action until it’s too late.

For people with allergic asthma, treating both the asthma and the allergies is necessary. Simply using an inhaler or other asthma medication may not be enough if allergens continue to trigger symptoms. Avoiding allergens through environmental changes, like using air purifiers, closing windows during pollen season, and keeping homes clean of dust mites, can help. Additionally, medications such as antihistamines or nasal sprays may help manage allergic reactions, alongside asthma treatments like inhaled corticosteroids.

The Importance of Symptom Control

Effective asthma management is vital because poorly-controlled asthma can lead to serious health issues. Persistent inflammation in the airways can cause long-term damage to your lungs. Even mild asthma symptoms can affect your quality of life, leading to missed school or work days and limitations on physical activities. For children, poor asthma control can interfere with their ability to participate in sports or other activities. Repeated asthma flare-ups can also lead to emergency room visits or hospitalization.

How Can an Allergist Help?

Given the complexities of allergic asthma, working with an allergist is crucial. Allergists specialize in diagnosing and treating allergies and asthma, helping patients identify specific allergens that trigger asthma symptoms. By performing tests, such as skin tests or blood tests, an allergist can pinpoint the exact allergens causing the allergic reactions.

Once allergens are identified, your allergist can recommend strategies to avoid them and prescribe appropriate medications to manage both asthma and allergies. This may include inhalers, antihistamines, or even immunotherapy (allergy shots) to help desensitize the immune system over time. An allergist can also develop a personalized asthma action plan to help you stay consistent with treatment as well as monitoring symptoms, ensuring that you take proactive steps to control your asthma effectively.

An allergist can help keep your symptoms under control and live the life you want. Find an allergist near you with the ACAAI allergist locator.

About ACAAI

The ACAAI is the premier professional medical organization of more than 6,000 allergists-immunologists and allied health professionals, headquartered in Arlington Heights, Ill. The College fosters a culture of collaboration and congeniality in which its members work together and with others toward the common goals of patient care, education, advocacy, and research. ACAAI allergists are board-certified physicians trained to diagnose allergies and asthma, administer immunotherapy, and provide patients with the best treatment outcomes. For more information and to find relief, visit AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org. Join us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter/X and Threads.