Allergic Asthma Symptoms
Allergic asthma symptoms usually occur when exposed to a specific allergen and can become chronic over time. The most common symptoms include shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, and a dry, persistent cough that increases especially at night or in the morning. These symptoms can become more pronounced during exercise, in cold weather, or under intense stress. According to Dr. Nurcivan Ünsal Üz’s holistic medical approach, these symptoms should not be seen solely as a mechanical problem in the lungs; they should also be evaluated as a signal that the immune system is working imbalanced and the body is having difficulty coping with toxins, stress, or emotional pressure. Symptoms such as frequent coughing or chest tightness in particular can be a physical manifestation of suppressed emotions or unexpressed stress factors. Therefore, asthma treatment is not only about suppressing the symptoms, but also finding and resolving the underlying causes, a critical step for permanent recovery.
Allergic Asthma Attack Symptoms
What are the symptoms of an allergic asthma attack? Allergic asthma attacks are crises that greatly affect the patient's quality of life and develop suddenly. These attacks usually begin with triggers such as contact with allergens, air pollution, exercise or psychological stress. During an attack, the individual suddenly experiences symptoms such as severe shortness of breath, a feeling of pressure in the chest and difficulty breathing. Wheezing and whistling breathing are the most obvious characteristics of attacks. Coughing, which becomes more pronounced especially in the evening or when waking up at night, can prevent the person from sleeping. A feeling of panic and anxiety may accompany these symptoms, because the person may experience fear thinking that they are not getting enough air. During this process, the response to medications such as inhalers or nebulizers may also be inadequate. In Dr. Nurcivan Ünsal Üz's holistic medical approach, it is emphasized that an allergic asthma attack is not only considered a physical problem, but also a result of the person's emotional and environmental burdens. Therefore, to prevent attacks, not only symptomatic treatment but also immune system balancing, stress management and lifestyle changes are included in the treatment process.
Allergic Asthma Symptoms in Children
Allergic asthma in children can be difficult to diagnose, especially in the preschool period, because young children cannot adequately describe the symptoms.
• Frequent bronchitis and cough attacks
• Cough that wakes you up at night
• Getting tired quickly while playing with toys or running
• Wheezing in the chest and whistling sounds while breathing
• Symptoms that develop with runny nose and watery eyes
When evaluating these symptoms in children, Dr. Ünsal Üz takes into account not only physical complaints but also a much broader perspective such as the child's living conditions, emotional world, diet, and even the mental state of the parents.
Approaching Allergic Asthma with a Holistic Medical Approach
When allergic asthma is considered solely as a physical disease, the treatment process often does not go beyond suppressing symptoms. However, according to Dr. Nurcivan Ünsal Üz's holistic medical approach, allergic asthma is the result of a disruption of the body's balance, a response the body gives to various stress and environmental factors. Therefore, treatment aims to balance all body systems. At the core of holistic medicine, a holistic assessment is made by considering not only the respiratory tract of the individual, but also the immune system, digestive system, hormone levels and psychological state. In this process, the overreactive aspect of the immune system, nutritional habits and intestinal health are regulated and the body's defense mechanisms are strengthened. Elements such as cleansing the body from environmental toxins that harm the body, reducing stress and emotional burdens are included in the treatment. Dr. Ünsal Üz aims not only to temporarily relieve the symptoms of asthma patients, but also to determine the roots that lead to allergic asthma. For example, in children with frequent asthma, family dynamics, environmental factors and the child's emotional needs are also taken into consideration. However, the immune system is brought back into balance with natural supports such as proper nutrition, probiotic supplements, anti-inflammatory foods and herbal treatment methods (phytotherapy). In addition, stress management and mental awareness studies help control the psychological factors that trigger asthma attacks. In other words, the holistic medical approach advocates that asthma should not be considered just as a disease, but as a reflection of the person's physical, mental and environmental interactions, and aims to improve all of these factors simultaneously during the treatment process.
Difference Between Asthma and Allergic Asthma
What is the difference between asthma and allergic asthma? Although asthma and allergic asthma have similar symptoms, they have important differences in terms of their causes and triggers. Asthma is a disease that occurs as a result of chronic inflammation of the respiratory tract and manifests itself with symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Allergic asthma, on the other hand, is a type of asthma in which these symptoms occur after contact with specific allergens—such as pollen, dust mites, animal hair, or mold. In other words, every allergic asthma is asthma, but not every asthma is allergic. In allergic asthma, the immune system overreacts to harmless substances, while non-allergic asthma can develop with different triggers such as cold weather, exercise, cigarette smoke, air pollution, or infections. Although treatment methods are similar, in allergic asthma, protection from allergens and, if necessary, allergy-oriented treatments are also important. Therefore, correct diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan play a critical role in improving quality of life.
Can Allergic Asthma Be Cured?
Allergic asthma may not go away completely, but it can be largely controlled with the right treatment and lifestyle changes. This disease usually has a chronic course, meaning it can last for many years; however, depending on factors such as the individual's immune system, age, environmental factors and response to treatment, symptoms may decrease or change over time. While allergic asthma may subside or disappear during adolescence in some children, it may continue into adulthood in others. The most effective approach is to minimize contact with triggering allergens and regularly use treatments that will control inflammation, rather than completely curing the disease. Methods such as immunotherapy (allergy vaccination) can provide significant improvement in the long term by reducing sensitivity to allergens in some patients. However, since each individual's condition is different, it is not possible to make a definitive judgment about whether allergic asthma will go away completely; the important thing is to minimize symptoms and live a quality life.
How to Treat Allergic Asthma?
Although it is not possible for every individual to completely eliminate allergic asthma, it is possible to greatly reduce the symptoms with the right treatment and preventive strategies. The most basic step in this process is to identify the substances that trigger the allergic reaction and stay away from them. Common allergens such as pollen, house dust mites, mold, and animal hair can be determined with personalized tests and various adjustments can be made in living spaces accordingly. Medical treatment usually aims to control symptoms with inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators. In addition, medications such as antihistamines and leukotriene antagonists can be used to reduce allergic sensitivity. As a longer-term solution, immunotherapy (allergy vaccination) can be applied; this treatment aims to reduce the sensitivity of the immune system by giving the body increasing doses of allergens. In addition, staying away from cigarette smoke and air pollution, doing regular exercise and adopting a lifestyle that supports the immune system also positively affect the treatment process. Therefore, although the "outcome" of allergic asthma varies depending on the individual's condition, environmental factors, and response to treatment, it is often possible to live a symptom-free life with effective management.
Is Allergic Asthma a Chronic Disease?
Yes, allergic asthma is a chronic disease. This condition is characterized by the airways being hypersensitive to certain allergens and therefore having long-term, recurring symptoms. Being chronic means that the disease may not be completely eliminated but can be managed in the long term. Symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, wheezing and chest tightness in allergic asthma occur especially when exposed to allergens and can seriously reduce quality of life if left untreated. However, this disease can be kept under control with regular medication use, protection from allergens, lifestyle changes and, if necessary, immunotherapy. In other words, although allergic asthma is a chronic disease, with the right approach, the vast majority of patients can lead active and healthy lives.
Allergic Asthma Treatment
Allergic asthma treatment is carried out with a multifaceted approach to both control inflammation in the respiratory tract and reduce sensitivity to allergens. The first step of treatment is to identify the allergens that trigger the disease and avoid contact with these substances as much as possible. Common allergens such as pollen, dust mites, animal hair or mold can be reduced with various measures taken in the living area. In drug treatment, inhaled corticosteroids are generally used for long-term control, while bronchodilators (breath-opening drugs) provide relief during crises. In addition, drugs such as antihistamines and leukotriene receptor antagonists are also effective in suppressing the allergic component. In more advanced cases or in cases where there is insufficient response to classical treatment, immunotherapy (allergy vaccines) can come into play and reduce the immune system's response to allergens. When this treatment plan, which is specially designed for the individual, is supported by regular follow-up and lifestyle changes, allergic asthma can be largely controlled and the patient's quality of life can be significantly improved.
Frequently Asked Questions About Allergic Asthma
What Is Allergic Asthma?
Allergic asthma is a chronic condition caused by hypersensitivity of the airways to environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and animal dander. The immune system perceives these allergens as threats and reacts by narrowing the airways, causing swelling and mucus production. This reaction makes breathing difficult for the individual.
What Are the Symptoms of Allergic Asthma?
The most common symptoms of allergic asthma include wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing—especially at night or in the early morning—and a feeling of tightness in the chest. These symptoms can worsen after exercise or exposure to allergens.
What Are Asthma Attacks and What Triggers Them?
Asthma attacks are episodes of increased inflammation in the airways that cause more severe symptoms. These attacks can be triggered by environmental allergens (such as pollen, dust, and smoke), air pollution, cold weather, exercise, stress, or infections. During an attack, breathing becomes extremely difficult and may require emergency intervention.
Are the Symptoms of Allergic Asthma Different in Children?
The symptoms of allergic asthma in children are generally similar to those in adults. However, younger children may not be able to fully express their breathing difficulties or coughing. Therefore, signs such as frequent bronchitis, nighttime coughing that wakes them up, and quick fatigue after physical activity should be closely monitored.
How Is Allergic Asthma Treated?
Conventional treatment for allergic asthma usually involves medications such as inhalers, bronchodilators, and corticosteroids. However, Dr. Nurcivan Ünsal Üz’s holistic approach focuses not just on suppressing symptoms temporarily, but on rebalancing the body as a whole. Strengthening the immune system, supporting gut health, managing stress, and detoxification are key elements of this integrative treatment plan.
Is There a Psychological Link to Allergic Asthma?
Yes, allergic asthma has a psychological component. Stress, anxiety, and emotional pressure can trigger asthma attacks. In holistic medicine, both mental and emotional well-being are considered important. Practices such as meditation, breathing exercises, and mindfulness techniques may be included in the treatment process to restore psycho-emotional balance.
What Factors Contribute to the Development of Allergic Asthma?
Multiple factors can play a role in the development of allergic asthma, including genetic predisposition, environmental factors (dust mites, pollen, smoke, chemicals), immune system responses, dietary habits, and even psychological stress. Dr. Nurcivan Ünsal Üz’s approach takes all of these factors into consideration during the healing process.
Can Allergic Asthma Be Prevented?
Although completely preventing allergic asthma can be difficult, attacks can be reduced by avoiding triggers and strengthening the immune system. In holistic medicine, identifying and avoiding allergens, eating a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing stress are key to reducing the severity of the condition.
Are There Alternatives to Medication in Treating Allergic Asthma?
In addition to medication, holistic medicine offers alternative therapies such as herbal treatments, homeopathy, acupuncture, and aromatherapy. Phytotherapy, in particular, is a natural approach often used to support the immune system and reduce inflammation.
What Lifestyle Changes Should People with Allergic Asthma Make?
Lifestyle changes are essential in managing allergic asthma. Avoiding smoking, steering clear of dust, pollen, and other allergens, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and engaging in regular exercise all play a significant role. Managing stress and supporting emotional well-being also help in keeping the disease under control.