Stop Allergy Cough: Triggers, Treatments and Prevention

Why Do Allergies Cause Coughing?

Allergies cause coughing due to an immune system response to allergens. When allergens enter the airways, the immune system reacts, releasing chemicals that cause inflammation and irritation, leading to a cough. This is often part of the body's attempt to expel the allergens.

Understanding Allergic Coughs

An allergic cough is a specific reaction to allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. The body recognizes these allergens as foreign substances and releases histamines to combat them. These histamines cause inflammation in the airways, triggering a cough as the body tries to clear the allergens. This type of cough is often dry and may be accompanied by other allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, or itchy eyes. Identifying the cause of the allergic reaction and taking appropriate steps to avoid the allergen can help alleviate an allergic cough.

What Are the Symptoms of an Allergy Cough?

An allergy cough is characterized by a persistent dry cough that may be accompanied by other allergy symptoms. These symptoms can include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and fatigue. An allergy cough often worsens with exposure to the allergen and may improve when the allergen is avoided.

In addition to the cough, individuals may experience uncontrollable sneezing fits during allergy season. This is a common symptom of allergic rhinitis, a condition characterized by sneezing, watery eyes, and a stuffy nose. The symptoms of allergic rhinitis can be controlled by over-the-counter (OTC) medications or prescriptions, but immunotherapy is a long-term solution.

It's important to note that allergy cough symptoms may be more severe in individuals with asthma. Exposure to allergens can impact both allergy symptoms and asthma, making it essential to avoid exposure to reduce the risk of worsening symptoms. For more details on avoiding allergens, consider this article.

How Can You Identify Your Personal Allergy Triggers?

Identifying your personal allergy triggers is the first step towards proper management and treatment. Allergy triggers can range from common allergens like pollen, dust mites and pet dander, to specific foods and medications. Allergists can assist in identifying these triggers through skin or blood tests.

Observing Symptoms

One way to identify your triggers is by observing when your symptoms occur. If your cough gets worse when you're outside on a windy day, for example, you may be allergic to airborne allergens like pollen or mold. Similarly, if your symptoms seem to get worse during certain seasons, you may have a seasonal allergy.

Allergy Testing

Allergy testing is another method to confirm your triggers. An allergist can perform a skin or blood test to identify which allergens cause an immune response in your body. These tests can help pinpoint specific triggers, leading to a more effective treatment plan. Wyndly provides more information on the process of allergy testing.

Keeping an Allergy Diary

Consider keeping an allergy diary to track your symptoms and potential triggers. Record any changes in symptoms, as well as any exposure to potential allergens. This can help you identify patterns and triggers over time, aiding in the development of an effective management and treatment plan. Check out this guide for more tips on managing allergies.

How Can You Treat an Allergy Cough?

Treating an allergy cough involves addressing the underlying allergy and managing the symptoms using OTC medication, natural remedies, and sublingual immunotherapy. Each method has its advantages and can be used alone or in combination, depending on the severity of the symptoms.

Treatments for an Allergy Cough

OTC medications like antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroids can help alleviate the symptoms of an allergy cough. Antihistamines help by blocking the body's production of histamine, a substance that causes allergic reactions. Decongestants reduce swelling in the nasal passages, making breathing easier. Corticosteroids, available as nasal sprays, can reduce inflammation and prevent allergic reactions. You can learn more about these treatments from this Wyndly article.

Natural Home Cough Remedies

Natural remedies can provide relief from an allergy cough without the need for medication. Staying hydrated, using a humidifier, and inhaling steam can help soothe an irritated throat and loosen mucus. Certain herbal remedies, such as peppermint and eucalyptus, can also help alleviate cough symptoms. Visit this Wyndly post for more tips on using herbal remedies to combat seasonal allergies.

Sublingual Immunotherapy

Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is a long-term treatment that helps your body get used to the allergen, reducing the severity of your allergic reaction over time. It involves placing a tablet under the tongue that contains a small amount of the allergen. This treatment is a good option for those who cannot avoid their allergen or do not respond well to OTC medications. You can read more about this treatment in Wyndly's guide on allergy symptoms and treatments.

What Lifestyle Adjustments Can Provide Cough Relief?

Lifestyle adjustments can significantly provide cough relief by reducing exposure to allergens and bolstering your body's natural defenses. These changes involve modifying your indoor environment, adjusting your outdoor activities, and improving your overall health.

Indoor allergens can be reduced by maintaining a clean home. Regularly vacuuming, washing bedding, and using air purifiers can minimize exposure to dust mites and pet dander. Avoid using window fans that can draw in pollen, and consider using allergy-proof covers on mattresses and pillows.

When it comes to outdoor activities, try to limit exposure during high pollen times. The pollen count is usually highest in the morning, on windy days, and immediately after a rain shower. Wearing sunglasses can protect your eyes from pollen, and a hat can keep it out of your hair. Showering after outdoor activities can also help to remove allergens from your skin and hair.

Improving overall health can also bolster your body's natural defenses against allergens. Staying hydrated can keep your throat moist and reduce coughing. Regular exercise can boost your immune system and your body's ability to fight off allergens. Eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep can also help your body stay strong and resilient.

For more tips on how to manage allergies without medication, you can check out this Wyndly blog post.

How Can You Prevent an Allergy Cough?

Preventing an allergy cough involves reducing exposure to allergens and strengthening your immune system. This can be achieved through a combination of lifestyle changes, medical treatments, and immunotherapy.

Reducing allergen exposure involves several strategies. Regular cleaning of your home can help eliminate common indoor allergens like dust mites and pet dander. For outdoor allergens like pollen, try to stay indoors during peak pollen times, usually in the morning and after rain showers. Wearing sunglasses and hats can protect you from airborne pollen when you're outside.

Strengthening your immune system can also help prevent an allergy cough. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep can boost your body's natural defenses. Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke, as these can irritate the respiratory tract and worsen coughing.

Medical treatments and immunotherapy can also be effective in preventing allergy coughs. OTC antihistamines and nasal sprays can help manage mild symptoms. For more severe allergies, an allergist may recommend immunotherapy, which involves regular injections or tablets to help your body build up a tolerance to allergens. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment plan.

When Should You Consult an Allergist or Doctor?

You should consult an allergist or doctor if your allergy cough persists despite self-care measures, or if it's interfering with your day-to-day activities. Seeking professional help is especially crucial if you experience severe symptoms like chest tightness, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.

An allergist or doctor can conduct tests to identify the specific allergens causing your symptoms. They can also recommend more effective treatments, such as prescription medications or immunotherapy.

If your cough is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, weight loss, or night sweats, see a doctor immediately. These could be signs of a more serious condition.

Live Allergy-Free with Wyndly

If you want long-term relief from your allergies, Wyndly can help. Our doctors will help you identify your allergy triggers and create a personalized treatment plan to get you the lifelong relief you deserve. Start by taking our quick online allergy assessment today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my allergies making me cough so much?

Allergies can trigger a cough due to postnasal drip or by irritating the throat and airways. When you're allergic to a substance, your body releases histamines that can cause inflammation in your upper respiratory tract, leading to persistent coughing as a protective reflex.

Do hot showers make allergies worse?

While hot showers can provide temporary relief from nasal congestion, they can potentially worsen allergies. The heat and steam can stimulate the production of histamines, the body's allergic response triggers, and cause skin irritation. Additionally, mold and dust mites thrive in humid environments.

How do you calm an allergy cough?

An allergy cough can be calmed by avoiding allergen exposure, using an air purifier, maintaining hydration, and taking over-the-counter antihistamines or cough suppressants. For persistent coughs, seek medical advice as prescription medication or allergy immunotherapy may be necessary. Always consult your doctor for personalized treatment.

How do I stop constant coughing?

To stop constant coughing, it's crucial to identify and address the underlying cause, which may be allergies, infections, or chronic conditions like asthma. Over-the-counter cough suppressants, staying hydrated, using a humidifier, and avoiding irritants such as smoke can also provide symptomatic relief. Always consult a doctor for persistent coughs.

How long do allergy coughs last?

Allergy coughs duration is typically tied to exposure to the allergen. Once exposure ends, coughs can persist for a few days to a few weeks. If the allergen exposure is constant, like dust in your house, the allergy cough could persist indefinitely until addressed.

How do you stop an uncontrollable cough?

Uncontrollable cough can be managed by drinking plenty of fluids, using a humidifier to moisten your airways, avoiding irritants like smoke, and taking over-the-counter cough suppressants or lozenges. However, chronic cough could indicate an underlying condition, thus, seeking medical advice is recommended.

What is the best medicine for an allergy cough?

For an allergy-induced cough, antihistamines like loratadine, cetirizine, or fexofenadine are usually the first choice. They work by blocking histamine, a compound your body releases during allergic reactions. In case of severe symptoms, a doctor may prescribe a corticosteroid. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

How long does it take for an allergy cough to go away?

The duration of an allergy cough can vary greatly, dependent on the individual and the allergen exposure. It can last for a few hours to several weeks. However, if allergens are continuously present or exposure is not mitigated, the cough can persist indefinitely.

How do you stop allergy cough at night?

To stop an allergy cough at night, try using a humidifier to keep the air moist and prop yourself up with extra pillows to reduce throat irritation. You can also take an antihistamine before bed to reduce allergy symptoms that trigger coughing.

How do you stop coughing from cat allergies?

To stop coughing from cat allergies, keep your living space clean by vacuuming regularly and using air purifiers. Also, avoid touching your face after petting the cat and consider taking antihistamines to manage your symptoms.

How do you stop an allergy cough naturally?

To stop an allergy cough naturally, try drinking warm tea with honey, which can soothe your throat, and using a saline nasal spray to clear out allergens. Staying hydrated and avoiding allergens like dust and pollen can also help reduce coughing.