Do you find yourself repeatedly wheezing or coughing? Is feeling short of breath becoming normal for you? Do you experience congestion, a runny nose or itchy eyes on a regular basis? If the answer to these questions is a, Yes then you're not alone. Respiratory allergies affect millions of people worldwide and cause discomfort, difficulty in performing day to day activities and even can lead to severe health complications if left unmanaged. Whether you are experiencing mild symptoms or struggling with recurrent attacks, understanding the respiratory allergies is crucial for taking control of your health. Otherwise the problem can become chronic and will get difficult to manage with time.

In this blog we will understand the details of respiratory allergies, its symptoms, how home remedies and herbs can help.

What are Respiratory Allergies?

Respiratory allergies are the response of your immune system which overreacts to certain substances. These substances are usually harmless like dust, pollen, mold and pet dander. This leads to inflammation and irritation in your airways, causing a range of uncomfortable symptoms.

Respiratory Allergies: Common Types You Must Know

Following are the most common types of Respiratory Allergies:

• Hay Fever (Allergic Rhinitis): It is an allergic reaction to airborne particles like pollen, dust or mold. Rhinitis is basically the inflammation of the membrane present inside the nose.
• Asthma: A very chronic condition characterized by inflammation and constriction of the airways.
• Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA): It is a rare condition which is caused by an allergic reaction to a fungus.

Symptoms: One Might Experience

Here are detailed descriptions of the symptoms of respiratory allergies:

• Congestion and Stuffiness: A sensation of heaviness or pressure in the face followed by blocked nasal passage. This makes breathing difficult and doing work that involves concentration. It can also lead to repeated headaches as well.
• Runny Nose and Sneezing: It is characterized by production of excessive thin, clear mucus. Thus leading to a constant flow of fluid from the nose and is accompanied by sudden or involuntary expulsions of air called as sneezes in order to clear the nasal passages.
• Itchy, Watery Eyes: Due to blockage in the passage, eyes become red, itchy and teary. With an excessive production of tears, causing discomfort and blurred vision repeatedly.
• Coughing and Wheezing: With a persistent and dry or productive cough there is  a typical sound which is generally accompanied. It's a high-pitched whistling sound Called as wheeze. It is listened to when breathing out, indicating airway constriction.
• Shortness of Breath: Breathing difficult and feeling of not able to breathe or you are not able to catch your breath is defined as shortness of breath. It can also be a sensation of suffocation, even when sitting still or engaging in light physical activities.
• Chest Tightness: This is explained as a feeling of constriction or heaviness in the chest. Mostly like a band or weight is pressing down thus making it uncomfortable to breathe or move.

Respiratory Allergies: The Most Common Causes

The potential causes of respiratory allergies are as below:

• Genetics: Family history plays a significant role.There are many things that can run in families and allergies are one of them.
• Environmental Factors: Repeated exposure to allergens like dust, pollen or pet dander can make your body’s response sensitive towards it.
• Lifestyle: Poor air quality, stress and lack of exercise.

Managing Respiratory Allergies: Avoidance & Lifestyle Changes

Here are detailed descriptions of the ways to manage respiratory allergies:

Avoidance

It's important to Identify and avoid exposure to known allergens. These allergens are as following:

• Pollen exposure can be avoided by staying indoors during peak pollen hours and by keeping windows closed.
• Dust mites are commonly caught by beddings so it's better to use allergen-proof bedding and also wash bedding in hot water.
• Pets are the piece of heart and a member of the family as well. But pet hairs can cause respiratory allergies. So it's better to avoid pets or keep them out of your bedroom.
• Molds are grown in the moist areas. It is advised that water leaks inside the house should be repaired to avoid development of molds, use a dehumidifier and avoid staying long in damp areas.
• Insect sting allergies can be simply avoided by staying away from areas where insects are present like in forests or on hiking sites.

Lifestyle Changes

• Regular Exercise: This helps in improving lung function and entire health.
• Healthy Diet: It's better to focus on a diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid foods rich in sugar or are processed, fried and baked.
• Stress Management: Sometimes it plays a very major role in triggering things. It's better to try techniques like meditation, yoga or deep breathing to avoid and manage day to day stress as well. 
• Air Purifiers: A boon technology in case you are living in an air polluted area. It helps to remove allergens and pollutants from the air.
• Also, try to Keep your home clean and dust-free. Use face masks whenever you are cleaning.
• Wash your hands frequently, especially after exposure to allergens. 

Natural Remedies: For Resolving Allergies At Home

Here are some natural remedies for respiratory allergies:

• Honey: Usually local raw honey is often touted as a natural remedy for allergies as it has a kapha reducing effect on the body.
• Steam Therapy: From children to adults, inhaling steam can help clear nasal passages and can also relieve sinus congestion.It acts directly on the airway passage and provides relief.
• Herbal Infusions: Infusions or decoctions are prepared with one or more than one herb by boiling them in water for not more than 5 minutes. Infusions made with herbs like nettle, peppermint and chamomile have been used for centuries to soothe allergy symptoms.
• Eucalyptus Oil: This oil is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties. Taking steam inhalation with 2-3 drops of this oil provides relief in congestion and ease breathing.

Herbal Helpers for Respiratory Allergies

Following are the herbal helpers that help in allergies:

• Turmeric: The herb has an active compound called Curcumin which reduces inflammation thus decreasing the mucus production. Intake of haldi in any form decreases respiratory allergies by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body.
• Ginger: Naturally the herb has anti-inflammatory properties which help to soothe the airways and in reducing inflammation.The discomfort associated with respiratory allergies.
• Peppermint: The menthol content in peppermint helps to ease congestion and open airways, making it easier to breathe.
• Licorice Root: The root of licorice has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce airway inflammation. That’s how it helps to alleviate symptoms of respiratory allergies. Its soothing effects also help calm irritated throat, reducing discomfort and promoting easier breathing.
• Nettle Leaf: Nettle leaf is known to have natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory effects which helps to reduce the severity of respiratory allergy symptoms.
• Thyme: The thyme Essential oils help combat respiratory infections and discomforting symptoms of respiratory allergies due to its anti inflammatory effects.
• Sage: Its active compounds include rosmarinic acid and ursolic acid which have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and promote easier breathing.
• Marshmallow Root: Marshmallow root is known to soothe irritated throats and airways, reduces discomfort and promotes easier breathing.

Aller-GI Capsules: Natural Relief From Respiratory Allergies

Expertly formulated with neem, ashwagandha, haridra and shirish to provide comprehensive relief from Respiratory Allergies. Following are the benefits of Aller-GI capsules:

• Relieves sneezing & congestion
• Soothes runny nose & watery eyes
• Supports healthy breathing
• Eliminates excess mucus naturally

Conclusion

Respiratory allergies have the capability to significantly impact your quality of life, but with the right knowledge and strategies one can breathe easy once again. You can take control of your respiratory allergies and start living the life you deserve as delaying is not an option and it's only going to make your situation worse. The herbs which are  being mentioned in the above blog can help you a lot in preventing and betterment of your conditions. Also, home remedies play a good role as well. In case of any other associated condition, consult an Expert Ayurveda Doctor.