Asthma or Allergies: How to Tell the Difference

Asthma or Allergies: How to Tell the Difference

Asthma and allergies often share similar symptoms, which can make it difficult to tell them apart. Both conditions can cause coughing, breathing issues and discomfort, especially during certain times of the year.

Because asthma and allergies are closely linked, many people have both conditions at the same time. In fact, allergies are one of the most common triggers for asthma symptoms.

Understanding the difference between asthma and allergies can help you recognize your symptoms and know when to seek professional care.

What Are Allergies?

Allergies happen when the immune system overreacts to something that is normally harmless.

Common allergy triggers include:

• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Mold
• Pet dander
• Grass
• Certain foods

Allergies often affect the nose, eyes, throat and skin.

Common allergy symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Itchy eyes
• Watery eyes
• Itchy throat
• Skin rashes
• Hives

People with ongoing symptoms may benefit from allergy testing to identify specific triggers.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways in the lungs.

When someone has asthma, the airways become inflamed and narrow, making it harder to breathe.

Common asthma symptoms include:

• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Persistent coughing
• Trouble breathing during exercise
• Symptoms that worsen at night

Patients with ongoing breathing issues may benefit from professional asthma treatment to help control symptoms and reduce flare-ups.

Asthma vs Allergies: What Is the Difference?

The biggest difference between asthma and allergies is where symptoms occur.

Allergies usually affect the nose, eyes and skin, while asthma mainly affects the lungs and breathing.

For example:

• Sneezing and itchy eyes are more common with allergies
• Wheezing and chest tightness are more common with asthma
• Runny nose is usually linked to allergies
• Shortness of breath is more commonly associated with asthma

However, the two conditions can overlap. Some people experience allergy symptoms that trigger asthma symptoms as well.

Can Allergies Cause Asthma?

Allergies do not directly cause asthma, but they can trigger asthma symptoms in people who already have asthma. This is sometimes called allergic asthma.

Common allergy-related asthma triggers include:

• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Pet dander
• Mold
• Smoke
• Seasonal changes

People with both conditions may notice more coughing, wheezing or chest tightness during allergy season or after exposure to triggers.

Patients with seasonal symptoms may benefit from treatment for indoor and outdoor allergies.

Do Allergies Cause Wheezing?

Many people wonder whether allergies can cause wheezing.

Allergies may cause mild wheezing in some people, especially if there is significant nasal congestion or inflammation. However, frequent wheezing is more commonly associated with asthma.

If wheezing happens often, especially along with shortness of breath or chest tightness, it is important to see an allergy specialist or asthma provider.

When to See an Allergy Specialist

It may be time to see a provider if you have:

• Persistent coughing
• Frequent wheezing
• Ongoing nasal congestion
• Shortness of breath
• Symptoms that interfere with sleep
• Symptoms that get worse during certain seasons
• Difficulty controlling symptoms with over-the-counter medication

An allergy specialist can help determine whether you have allergies, asthma or both. Many patients also benefit from working with allergy specialists who can recommend testing, medication or long-term treatment options.

Treatment Options for Asthma and Allergies

Treatment depends on the type and severity of symptoms.

For allergies, treatment may include:

• Antihistamines
• Nasal sprays
• Allergy testing
• Allergy shots
• Avoiding triggers

For asthma, treatment may include:

• Rescue inhalers
• Long-term control inhalers
• Trigger management
• Allergy treatment
• Monitoring lung function

Some patients with severe or persistent allergies may benefit from immunotherapy or allergy shots.

The Bottom Line

Asthma and allergies often have overlapping symptoms, but they affect the body in different ways.

Allergies usually cause sneezing, itchy eyes and congestion, while asthma causes wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness.

Because the two conditions often occur together, professional testing and treatment can help identify the cause of symptoms and improve quality of life.

Find Relief From Asthma and Allergy Symptoms

If you are not sure whether your symptoms are caused by asthma, allergies or both, the providers at Schweiger Dermatology & Allergy can help.

Schweiger Dermatology & Allergy offers allergy testing, asthma treatment and personalized care plans to help patients breathe easier and feel better.

Schedule an appointment today to learn more about your symptoms and treatment options.

FAQs

Can allergies turn into asthma?

Allergies do not directly turn into asthma, but allergies can trigger asthma symptoms in people who are prone to asthma.

How do I know if I have asthma or allergies?

Sneezing, itchy eyes and congestion are more common with allergies, while wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath are more common with asthma.

Can allergies cause shortness of breath?

Allergies may sometimes make breathing feel uncomfortable, but ongoing shortness of breath is more often associated with asthma.

Should I see an allergy specialist for wheezing?

Yes. Frequent wheezing may be a sign of asthma and should be evaluated by a specialist.