Inhalation Allergies: What’s behind them?
Imagine finally being able to breathe deeply and freely—without constantly suffering from sneezing fits, itchy eyes, and shortness of breath. Inhalation allergies are silent troublemakers that often burden our daily lives unnoticed. In this article, you will learn how these allergies develop, which invisible triggers are behind them, and which effective diagnostic and treatment methods can help improve indoor air quality.
Table of Contents
- What are inhalation allergies?
- Which allergens cause inhalation allergies?
- What symptoms occur with an inhalation allergy?
- How are inhalation allergies diagnosed?
- How is an inhalation allergy treated?
- Tips for relieving inhalation allergies
- Summary
What are inhalation allergies?
An inhalation allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies harmless airborne particles, such as pollen or house dust mites, as harmful. In response, the body produces IgE antibodies, which activate certain immune cells. These then release histamine, making the body hypersensitive and potentially causing the typical symptoms of an inhalation allergy (Cleveland Clinic, 2022).
Which allergens cause inhalation allergies?
The most common triggers of inhalation allergies include:
- Pollen (hay fever): Trees, grasses, and herbs release pollen, which can cause seasonal symptoms.
- House dust mites: These microscopic arachnids live in mattresses, carpets, and upholstered furniture. Their feces trigger allergic reactions.
- Pet dander: The problem is not the hair itself but proteins found in the saliva, dander, or urine of animals such as cats and dogs.
- Mold spores: In damp environments or under certain weather conditions, airborne mold spores can cause allergic reactions.
Source: KNO Medisch Centrum, n.d.
What symptoms occur with an inhalation allergy?
Depending on the allergen and the severity of the reaction, the following symptoms may occur:
- Sneezing and a runny or blocked nose
- Itchy, watery, or red eyes
- Scratchy throat or persistent cough
- Breathing difficulties or allergic asthma
In some cases, symptoms may worsen over time or lead to chronic conditions.
Source: KNO Medisch Centrum, n.d.
How are inhalation allergies diagnosed?
The diagnosis of an inhalation allergy typically begins with a detailed patient history and physical examination by a doctor. Various test methods are used to accurately diagnose the allergy and determine specific triggers. Two common procedures include:
- Skin prick test: Small amounts of potential allergens are applied to the skin by a doctor. If the skin reacts, this is visible within minutes as swelling or redness at the test site.
- Blood test (specific IgE): This method measures the concentration of IgE antibodies in the blood that react to specific allergens. An elevated IgE level indicates allergic sensitization. This category also includes the inhalation allergy test and the comprehensive allergy test from Homed-IQ, both of which can be performed at home.
Source: AAFA, 2015
Home Test for inhalation allergies by Homed-IQ
With the Homed-IQ Inhalation Allergy Test, you can easily test your allergic reaction to various inhalation allergens from the comfort of your home. The test covers 30 allergens, including animals, house dust mites, grasses and pollen, tree pollen, weed pollen, and others.
How is an inhalation allergy treated?
The primary goal of inhalation allergy treatment is to reduce exposure to triggering substances. Additionally, medications such as antihistamines, corticosteroid nasal sprays, and asthma medications, if needed, are commonly used to relieve symptoms. In some cases, specific immunotherapy (desensitization) is also an option. This therapy aims to gradually reduce the immune system’s hypersensitivity to allergens (Allergy Information Service, 2021).
Tips for relieving inhalation allergies
Below are some useful tips for alleviating inhalation allergies:
- Air Quality: Use air purifiers with HEPA and activated carbon filters to remove particles and pollutants.
- Ventilation: Ensure fresh air in the morning or after rain; window pollen screens can help.
- Textiles: Wash bedding regularly at 60°C and avoid drying laundry outdoors.
- Floors & Surfaces: Avoid carpets and heavy curtains; clean with a HEPA vacuum cleaner.
- Prevent Mold Growth: Maintain indoor humidity between 40 and 50% and ventilate damp rooms properly.
- Pets: Regularly groom pets and limit their access to living areas.
- Cleaning Products & Plants: Use mild, fragrance-free products and choose allergy-friendly houseplants.
Sources: Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, 2015; Kent Hospital, 2024; Yale Health, n.d.; Mayo Clinic, 2024
Summary
Inhalation allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies harmless airborne particles, such as pollen, house dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores, as harmful. Typical symptoms include sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy and watery eyes, and breathing difficulties. Diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination, followed by tests such as the skin prick test and specific IgE blood tests. Treatment focuses primarily on reducing allergen exposure through regular cleaning and air filtration, as well as medical therapies (antihistamines, corticosteroid nasal sprays, asthma medications), and, in some cases, specific immunotherapy.
