Timely intervention needed for Allergic cough

Continuous coughing can be annoying and may rob your peace.  Moreover, if you are suffering from an allergic cough, then it is essential to consult your doctor immediately and get it seen to without further delay. Allergic cough can give you a tough time. It is a term which can be used to distinguish a cough caused by allergies from a cough which one may get owing to the common cold. You will notice that the cough may be usually accompanied by a runny nose and nasal congestion, and one may notice it when one is suffering from a common cold or allergic reaction. Sometimes, it may be difficult to diagnose and tackle it as the causes can be uncertain.

Dr. Arvind Kate, Pulmonologist at Zen Multispeciality Hospital, Chembur,talks aboutthe allergic cough and how to deal with it.

The causes:

 Allergic cough can be primarily caused owing to an overactive immune system responding excessively to certain substances which your body becomes exposed to.

This may also lead to the release of the chemical called histamine, which one’s body releases when a patient is suffering from a cold. Histamine is responsible for runny noses, coughing, sneezing, and swelling of the nasal passages. There is no specific cause behind it, but some may be more susceptible when compared to others.

People with a family history of allergies may be at a greater risk of getting it. Various studies also suggest that children with one allergic parent have more chances of developing allergies.

Also, allergic cough can be influenced by external factors.  An extreme pollen season or moving into a new moldy environment may lead to flare-ups. So, see to it that you note the triggers and avoid them. Not only this, even pollen, fungi, dust, air pollution, and passive smoking can also be causes.

You may also be prone to it if you are suffering from hay fever, upper airway cough syndrome and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Allergic cough can also be accompanied by sinus and middle ear infections.

Treatment:

You will have to visit your doctor who will examine the underlying caused behind your allergic cough and then suggest a proper treatment. The treatment may vary from person to person. Your doctor will help you tackle it with the help of medications. You should also see to it that you avoid taking over-the-counter medications, and should avoid self-medicating. Doing so can worsen your condition.

 Here are a few strategies which will help you keep an allergic cough at bay.

Avoid allergens or irritants which your body is sensitive to.The most common allergens are pollen, mold, animal dander, and dust mites, which should be dealt with.

Opting for antihistamines prescribed by your doctor may help inhibit the release of histamines, and this will allow you to relieve the symptoms like stuffy nose, runny nose, and swollen nasal passages.

Take decongestants suggested by your doctor, which can help you get rid of your stuffy and runny nose.

Cover your face while stepping out, in order to avoid dust and pollen.

Identify your allergy with the help of a skin or blood test. In some cases, a lung-function test, chest x-ray or bronchoscopy may be required, to identify the causes behind a persistent cough.

Keep your surroundings clean and avoid dust as much as possible.

Regular follow-ups and check-ups with your doctor are helpful.

For More Details: Dr. Arvind Kate, Pulmonologist at Zen Multispeciality Hospital, Chembur