Allergy occurs when a person’s immune system reacts to substances in the environment that do not bother most people. These substances are known as allergens and are found all around us. The most common are house dust mites, pets, pollen, moulds and foods.

If you have both asthma and allergies, being exposed to your allergy trigger can often cause asthma symptoms. Your doctor or pharmacist can help you to identify what you are allergic to, and work out ways to help you avoid your allergy triggers.

Even though complete allergen avoidance will not cure asthma, reduced exposure to your allergen triggers may lead to improved control of your asthma and reduce your need for medication.

And if you regularly get allergic conditions such as hayfever (allergic rhinitis) or sinus problems (sinusitis), treating the symptoms in your nose and throat can also improve your asthma control. 

More information

Our website has lots of helpful information on managing asthma and allergies. Check out these sections:

• Brochures - Detailed information on asthma, allergies and allergic rhinitis (hayfever)
• Healthy Living Fact Sheets - Tips and advice on how you can recognise and avoid allergy triggers
• 'How to' Videos - Short videos on how to use your nasal spray and/or asthma inhaler properly
• Sensitive Choice - Our blue butterfly program that helps you recognise products and services that may be better choices for people with asthma and allergies

The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) also provides a wide range of information on allergy diagnosis and management, including advice on anaphylaxis.

See the ASCIA website at: http://www.allergy.org.au/