Inhalation allergy: causes, symptoms & diagnostic procedures
An inhalant allergy, often referred to as a respiratory allergy, occurs when the immune system overreacts to substances that enter the body through the airways—such as pollen or mold spores. This can lead to a range of symptoms like sneezing, a runny or congested nose, and itchy eyes. Traffic, industrial sources, and the effects of climate change contribute to the increasing prevalence and severity of inhalant allergies worldwide (Deng et al., 2020). This article provides an overview of what an inhalant allergy is, its causes and symptoms, as well as diagnostic options.
Table of Contents
- What is an allergy?
- What are the most common triggers of an inhalant allergy?
- What are the differences between an inhalant allergy and other types of allergies?
- What are the symptoms of an inhalant allergy?
- How is an inhalant allergy diagnosed?
- How are inhalant allergies treated?
- Summary
What is an allergy?
An allergy is an immune system reaction to substances in the environment that are harmless to most people. These substances are called allergens. When a person with an allergy is exposed to an allergen, the immune system mistakenly identifies it as a threat. In response, the body produces antibodies, specifically immunoglobulin E (IgE), designed to fight off the allergen during future exposure. During an allergic reaction, the body releases histamine and other chemicals, which cause the typical allergy symptoms. These reactions are the body’s attempt to eliminate what it perceives as dangerous allergens (MedlinePlus, 2022; MedlinePlus, 2017).
What is an inhalant allergy?
Inhalant allergies, also known as respiratory allergies, occur when the immune system overreacts to tiny particles inhaled through the airways. These allergic reactions can be seasonal or year-round, depending on the type and origin of the allergens. Triggers include allergens found both indoors and outdoors (Cleveland Clinic, 2022).
What are the most common triggers of an inhalant allergy?
Pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander are the main allergens that can trigger inhalant allergies:
- Pollen: These small particles are released by trees, grasses, and weeds and are the primary cause of seasonal allergies, commonly known as hay fever. The pollen season depends on the plant species and geographic location, with pollen counts typically highest in spring and summer.
- Dust mites: These tiny organisms feed on skin flakes and primarily live in beds and upholstered furniture. Their feces, which contain allergy-triggering proteins, can cause allergic reactions year-round.
- Mold spores: Mold spores spread in damp environments and can cause allergies either seasonally or year-round.
- Pet hair and dander: Dander, hair, and saliva from pets—including dogs and cats—spread throughout living spaces and onto clothing, which can trigger continuous allergic reactions.
Source: Cleveland Clinic, 2022
Additional contributing factors:
Increasing air pollution and climate change significantly exacerbate the problem of environmental allergens. Air pollutants can not only increase the concentration and aggressiveness of pollen but also intensify allergic reactions. In addition, warmer temperatures and changing precipitation patterns lead to longer blooming periods, thereby extending the allergy season (Deng et al., 2020).
Want to Get an Overview Yourself?
The Homed-IQ Inhalant Allergy Test offers a simple way to test for possible sensitivities to common airborne allergens from the comfort of your home. This self-test can detect specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in the blood, which may indicate an allergic reaction to certain airborne particles. If you are looking for a broader analysis of your allergic sensitivities, the Extensive Allergy Test from Homed-IQ offers a testing option for a wide range of allergens, including food and contact allergens.
What are the differences between an inhalant allergy and other types of allergies?
The table below provides an overview of the differences between inhalant allergies and other types of allergies:
| Inhalant Allergy | Food Allergy | Contact Allergy |
|---|---|---|
| Triggers | Pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander | Certain foods such as nuts, milk, eggs, seafood |
| Route of Entry | Inhalation through the airways | Ingestion through the digestive tract |
| Symptoms | Affect respiratory tract, eyes, skin | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rashes, anaphylaxis |
| Seasonal Dependence | Often seasonal due to pollen exposure | Not seasonal, depends on food consumption |
Source: Murrell, 2018
What are the symptoms of an inhalant allergy?
Symptoms may vary depending on the individual, the specific allergen, and the amount of allergen present in the environment. Seasonal fluctuations—especially in pollen allergies—can also play a role, with symptoms becoming more pronounced during certain times of the year. In some cases, symptoms may be so mild they go unnoticed, while in others they can cause significant discomfort. General symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or blocked nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Coughing, breathing difficulties
- Itching
- Fatigue
In people with asthma, inhaled allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander can trigger asthma attacks, which manifest as increased breathing difficulties, coughing, and wheezing. Asthma attacks can range from mild to life-threatening and often require prompt treatment with asthma medication. For individuals with asthma, it is essential to know and avoid their specific triggers (Cleveland Clinic, 2024).
How is an inhalant allergy diagnosed?
The diagnosis of an inhalant allergy typically begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination by a doctor. To make an accurate diagnosis and identify specific allergens, various tests may be performed. The two most common are:
-
Skin prick test: In this test, small amounts of potential allergens are applied to the skin. An allergic reaction is indicated by swelling or redness at the test site within minutes.
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Blood test (specific IgE): This test measures the amount of allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in the blood. An elevated IgE level for specific allergens can indicate allergic sensitivity. This category includes the Inhalant Allergy Test and the Extensive Allergy Test offered by Homed-IQ.
Source: AAFA, 2015
How are inhalant allergies treated?
The treatment of inhalant allergies primarily focuses on reducing exposure to the triggering allergens—for example, through regular cleaning to minimize dust mites and pet dander, and by using air filters to reduce pollen and mold spores. Antihistamines, corticosteroid nasal sprays, and, when necessary, asthma medications are commonly used to relieve symptoms. In some cases, specific immunotherapy (desensitization) may be beneficial, which gradually reduces the immune system’s sensitivity to the allergen.
Summary
An inhalant allergy occurs when the immune system is overly sensitive to inhaled particles such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander. This leads to symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes. Such allergic reactions can occur seasonally or year-round, depending on the specific triggers. Diagnosis is typically made through skin prick tests or blood tests. The treatment of inhalant allergies aims to minimize contact with the triggers and relieve symptoms using antihistamines, corticosteroid nasal sprays, or specific immunotherapies.
