Yes, they can be related. Allergies and asthma often occur together. Substances that trigger allergic rhinitis, such as pollen, dander, and mold spores, can also cause asthma. In some people, even skin or food allergies can cause asthma symptoms.

Symptoms of allergic asthma can include shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and a rash.

Asthma is a disease of the lungs that causes your airways to become swollen and irritated. Your airways may also become narrow because the muscles around the airways tighten.

When you have allergies, your body fires up all its defenses to try and fight off danger. Your immune system releases a chemical called immunoglobulin E (IgE), which is used to fight the threat. However, high amounts of IgE can cause your airways to tighten, making breathing difficult and ultimately resulting in allergic asthma.

Substances that trigger your allergies can also trigger asthma. Inhaling an allergen (something you are allergic to) can cause asthma symptoms. If you have identified your allergens, avoid or limit contact with them to prevent an asthma episode.

Common inhaled allergens that cause allergic asthma include:

• Dust mites
• Cockroaches
• Pollen
• Molds
• Pet dander
• Rodents

Although less common, food allergies can also sometimes cause asthma. Food allergies, however, are known to cause a severe life-threatening reaction called Anaphylaxis, where your airways are swollen and blocked. Immediate emergency care is critical in such cases.

Yes. Allergies and asthma often occur together.

If you are exposed to an allergen that causes your airways to swell up or tighten, it can trigger an asthma attack.

There are different types of asthma. One such type is called allergic asthma.  The difference between allergies and asthma lies in the location of the reaction.

If the reaction happens in your nose, your symptoms will likely include congestion and sneezing. However, if the reaction occurs in your lungs, your symptoms will likely include coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. These are all signs of an asthma attack.

Yes, we provide a variety of allergy testing options at West Hills Allergy & Asthma Associates. This includes:

• Allergy Skin Test
• Antibiotic Sensitivity Testing
• Allergen Patch Testing
• Ingestion Challenge

At West Hills Allergy and Asthma Associates, we offer patients the best medical care designed to make their lives allergy-free. Dr. René Anderson-Cowell is skilled in diagnosing and treating various allergy types using the latest advancements in medication and immunotherapy.

If you’re looking for long-term solutions for treating seasonal allergies, asthma, food allergies, skin allergies, drug allergies, or other immunologic disorders, schedule a consultation online or by calling West Hills Allergy & Asthma Associates.

With her experience and training as an allergist (also known as immunologist), Dr. Anderson-Cowell is dedicated to offering comprehensive, evidence-based diagnostics and treatment options to her patients. 

At West Hills Allergy & Asthma Associates, we offer same-day allergy testing to help you identify your allergens and get you started on your journey to recovery. We offer treatments for all types of allergic diseases and immunology disorders, including:

• Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)
• Food Allergies
• Chronic Hives
• Atopic Eczema
• Allergic Asthma
• Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID)
• Immunoglobulin A Deficiency
• Hyper IgE Syndrome (HIES)
• Hypereosinophilic Syndrome
• Specific Antibody Deficiency (SAD)
• Hereditary Disorders
• Immune Globulin Infusion

At Westhills Allergy & Asthma, we offer two types of COVID treatment:

• Antiviral therapy
• Monoclonal antibody treatment

We offer two types of treatment for COVID, antiviral therapy and monoclonal antibody treatment. They are both designed to be given within 5-7 days of a COVID diagnosis. 

These treatments do not prevent COVID and are not a substitute for the vaccine. They are used to treat COVID and keep one’s symptoms from getting worse or requiring hospitalization.

Call West Hills Allergy & Asthma Associates for all your allergy and asthma concerns. Getting started is simple! Let our friendly staff and board-certified physicians care for you and your family.

For a consultation with Dr. Rene Anderson-Cowell, you can call us at (503) 297-4779 or request an appointment online.