Can Allergies Cause Shortness of Breath?

Have you ever found yourself gasping for air, wondering if allergies could be to blame? While shortness of breath might not be the first symptom that comes to mind when you think of allergies, the connection between the two can be more serious than you think.

Keep reading to learn about how allergies and shortness of breath might be related and what you can do about it.

Can Allergies Cause Shortness of Breath?

Allergies can contribute to shortness of breath. This is especially true for individuals who have allergic asthma or allergy-induced asthma — a condition where exposure to allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander leads to inflammation in the airways. This inflammation causes the airways to swell and narrow, resulting in symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness [*].

For those with allergic asthma, these symptoms can be more pronounced, which makes breathing even more challenging when allergens are present.

However, it’s also important to note that allergies and breathing difficulties can also occur during anaphylaxis. This is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition where the body's response to an allergen causes a sudden and severe reaction. It can lead to swelling of the throat and airways, and require immediate medical attention [*].

Multiple conditions can lead to anaphylaxis, including food allergies, certain medications, latex, and insect stings.

Other Symptoms of Allergic-Induced Shortness of Breath

It is possible for allergies to produce symptoms other than shortness of breath, such as:

• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Chest tightness
• Excessive mucus or phlegm
• Rapid breathing

If these symptoms are severe or persistent, seek immediate medical advice to manage the condition effectively.

Common Allergens That Can Lead to Shortness of Breath

Common allergens that can lead to shortness of breath include:

• Pollen. Often from trees, grasses, and weeds. Seasonal allergies or hay fever can be triggered by high pollen counts.
• Dust mites. These are tiny organisms that live in house dust. They thrive in bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture.
• Pet dander. Skin flakes, saliva, and urine from pets like cats and dogs can be allergens.
• Mold. Fungal spores from mold grow in damp areas, such as bathrooms, basements, and areas with poor ventilation.
• Cockroach droppings. Proteins from cockroach saliva, feces, and body parts can be allergens.
• Insect stings. Venom from stings of bees, wasps, or other insects can cause allergic reactions that might include difficulty breathing.

Note that triggers like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, and cockroach droppings are culprits in allergic asthma. On the other hand, insect stings and latex are more likely to cause anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals.

Managing exposure to these triggers and receiving proper treatment can help reduce symptoms for both conditions.

How to Manage Allergy-Induced Shortness of Breath

In addition to seeking care from a qualified medical professional, you can also take steps to avoid allergens and manage symptoms when they flare up. Here are some strategies that can help:

Identifying and avoiding triggers

Identifying and avoiding triggers is an important step in controlling allergy-induced shortness of breath. By figuring out what specific allergens are causing your symptoms, you can take proactive steps to reduce your exposure.

For instance, keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons, using air purifiers, and regularly cleaning your home can greatly reduce indoor allergen levels.

Additionally, taking measures to manage pet dander can help ease respiratory symptoms. Regularly groom your pets, keep them out of bedrooms or off furniture, and use air purifiers with HEPA filters. Washing pet bedding and vacuuming frequently are also effective practices.

These strategies may significantly improve your ability to manage and reduce shortness of breath caused by allergies.

Medications

While avoiding allergens and taking preventive measures help, medications are often necessary to control inflammation and open your airways.

Shortness of breath from allergies can be relieved by antihistamines, which block histamines — the chemicals released during an allergic reaction that leads to inflammation and constriction in the airways. Antihistamines reduce symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and congestion, which can improve breathing indirectly.

Inhaled corticosteroids specifically target and reduce inflammation in the airways, to prevent and control asthma symptoms associated with allergies.

In addition to traditional allergy treatments, consider using a combination nasal spray that offers precisely customized relief. Allermi nasal spray, for instance, combines and adjusts 3-4 active ingredients that target multiple symptoms. These ingredients include an antihistamine, an anti-inflammatory, and a decongestant.

Related: What to Do When Allergy Medicine Doesn't Work?

Lifestyle changes

In addition to medications, lifestyle changes can greatly help manage allergy-induced shortness of breath by enhancing respiratory health and reducing symptoms.

Regular exercise strengthens the lungs and improves their efficiency, which makes it easier to handle breathing difficulties. It also helps maintain a healthy weight, which is important because excess weight can put extra strain on the respiratory system.

Quitting smoking is another important change, as smoking irritates the airways and worsens respiratory issues. Stopping can lead to significant improvements in lung function.

Additionally, practice deep breathing exercises as these can strengthen respiratory muscles and boost lung capacity. They can further aid in the management of shortness of breath.

How Long Can Shortness of Breath from Allergies Last?

Shortness of breath caused by allergies can last anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on the individual and the severity of the reaction. The duration may be longer if you continue to be exposed to the allergen or if your allergies are not well managed.

For some individuals, especially those with allergic asthma or chronic allergies, shortness of breath can become a recurring issue.

To manage and reduce the duration of shortness of breath, it's important to minimize contact with allergens, use prescribed treatments, and consult with healthcare providers regularly to adjust your treatment plans as needed.

When to See a Doctor for Shortness of Breath

You should see a doctor if your shortness of breath is persistent, worsening, or coming on suddenly and severely. Seek medical attention right away if you experience shortness of breath with chest pain, dizziness, or swelling in your legs, as these could be signs of a serious medical condition.

These are emergencies that require immediate treatment to prevent life-threatening complications.

The Bottom Line

Allergies making it hard to breathe can be distressing, but thankfully, there are effective ways to manage your symptoms. The key is to know your triggers, reduce exposure to allergens, and follow a treatment plan that may include medications or a customized nasal spray. Stay proactive, consult your doctor, and follow the steps we've discussed.

References:

1. Allergic Asthma | ACAAI Public website. (2022, April 18). ACAAI Patient. https://acaai.org/asthma/types-of-asthma/allergic-asthma/
2. Anaphylaxis. (2024, May 1). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8619-anaphylaxis