Can Allergies Cause Shortness of Breath and Fatigue?
May 1, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, allergies can sometimes cause shortness of breath and fatigue, especially in individuals who have asthma or allergic asthma. Allergic asthma is a type of asthma triggered by exposure to allergens such as pollen, pet dander, mold spores, or dust mites.
When a person with allergic asthma is exposed to allergens, their immune system reacts by releasing substances that cause inflammation in the airways. This inflammation can lead to symptoms such as:
- Shortness of breath: Inflammation and constriction of the airways can make it difficult to breathe, resulting in feelings of breathlessness or shortness of breath.
- Fatigue: The body’s immune response to allergens can be physically draining, leading to fatigue or feelings of exhaustion. Additionally, the effort required to breathe when the airways are narrowed can contribute to feelings of tiredness.
- Wheezing and coughing: Allergic reactions in the airways can also cause wheezing (a high-pitched whistling sound when breathing) and coughing.
- Other systemic effects: Allergic reactions can trigger the release of chemicals such as histamine, which can affect other parts of the body and contribute to symptoms like fatigue, headache, and malaise.
It’s important for individuals experiencing symptoms of allergic asthma, including shortness of breath and fatigue, to seek medical evaluation and management. Treatment may include allergen avoidance, medications such as antihistamines and bronchodilators, and possibly allergy shots (immunotherapy) to desensitize the immune system to specific allergens.