Understanding the Link Between Allergies and Asthma

Understanding the link between allergies and asthma is crucial for managing both conditions effectively. These two often go hand-in-hand, especially in a busy urban environment like New York City, where allergens and pollutants are everywhere — from subway dust and rooftop pollen to pet dander in shared buildings. For many people, allergic reactions can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms, leading to breathing difficulties, reduced quality of life, and emergency room visits if not properly treated.

What Is the Connection Between Allergies and Asthma?

Allergic asthma is a type of asthma triggered by allergens — substances that cause allergic reactions. When someone with allergic asthma is exposed to an allergen like pollen or mold, their immune system reacts, causing inflammation in the airways. This inflammation leads to asthma symptoms such as:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Wheezing
• Persistent coughing

The connection between the two conditions lies in the immune system’s overreaction. For patients with both allergies and asthma, managing one often helps manage the other.

Common Allergy Triggers That Can Affect Asthma

Identifying and avoiding triggers is key to controlling allergic asthma. In NYC, environmental and indoor allergens are everywhere. Some of the most common include:

• Pollen: Tree, grass, and weed pollens peak during spring and fall.
• Dust Mites: Common in apartment buildings and older homes.
• Mold: Grows in damp areas like bathrooms, basements, and subways.
• Pet Dander: Even if you don’t own pets, shared spaces can harbor dander.
• Cockroach Droppings: A common trigger in densely populated cities.

Inhalation of these allergens can set off both allergy symptoms and an asthma attack, especially in individuals with allergic asthma.

Signs You May Have Allergic Asthma

If you’re already diagnosed with allergies or asthma, but you’re noticing cross-over symptoms, you may have allergic asthma. Watch for:

• Worsening of asthma symptoms during allergy season
• Asthma attacks after pet exposure
• Need for frequent rescue inhaler use in dusty or moldy environments
• Asthma triggered by pollen, smoke, or perfume

A consultation with a board-certified allergist can confirm the diagnosis and help you develop a targeted treatment plan.

Testing for Allergies and Asthma

To determine if your asthma is allergy-related, an allergist may recommend:

• Skin Prick Testing: Identifies sensitivities to common allergens.
• Blood Testing (IgE): Measures allergy-related antibodies.
• Spirometry: Assesses lung function and airflow restriction.

A combination of tests can provide a complete picture of what’s causing your symptoms — and how to treat them.

Treatment Options That Target Both Conditions

Managing allergies and asthma together often results in better outcomes. Effective treatments may include:

1. Inhalers: Daily corticosteroids and rescue bronchodilators help manage asthma symptoms.
2. Antihistamines: Reduce allergic reactions and nasal symptoms.
3. Allergy Immunotherapy: Allergy shots or sublingual tablets retrain the immune system to reduce sensitivity.
4. Environmental Control: Air purifiers, allergen-proof bedding, and mold remediation can reduce exposure.

Many patients with allergic asthma see long-term improvements when both allergies and asthma are addressed as part of the same treatment strategy.

Why Seeing an Allergist Matters

While general practitioners can treat asthma, an allergist has the specialized knowledge to identify allergy-asthma overlaps. By creating a personalized care plan, they can reduce your reliance on emergency medications and help you lead a more comfortable, symptom-free life — even during peak allergy season in NYC.

Get Expert Help for Allergies and Asthma in NYC

If you’re struggling with allergy-induced asthma or aren’t sure what’s triggering your symptoms, expert help is available. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Boyan Hadjiev to receive comprehensive allergy and asthma care designed around your needs.

Allergy, Asthma and Sinusitis P.C
Boyan Hadjiev, MD
30 East 40th Street
Suite 1200
New York, NY 10016
212-319-5282