Links to information, symptoms, and remedies for allergies and blocked nasal passages
Chest congestion is a common condition that affects many individuals, often causing discomfort and difficulty breathing. While chest congestion can be caused by various factors, this article will focus on allergy-induced chest congestion.
According to recent research, allergies can lead to chest congestion primarily through post-nasal drip and airway inflammation. Approximately 70% of chest congestion episodes are secondary to viruses, often leading to bronchitis with or without asthma flares. Allergens, irritants, and bacteria may also cause it.
Allergy-related chest congestion presents with a series of common symptoms. These include chest tightness or a feeling of pressure, persistent or chronic cough (dry or with mucus), wheezing or whistling sounds during breathing, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, throat irritation or itchy throat from post-nasal drip, runny nose, nasal congestion, and watery eyes. Mild chest discomfort or pain, often linked to coughing or airway inflammation, may also occur.
The underlying mechanism involves the immune response to allergens, which triggers histamine release and inflammation, increasing mucus production and airway sensitivity. Mast cells play a key role by releasing inflammatory mediators that enhance cough sensitivity and mucus secretion.
If allergy-related chest congestion worsens or persists, it can signal progression to lower airway involvement (like bronchitis or asthma exacerbation), necessitating medical evaluation and treatment.
Treatment for chest congestion due to allergies may include bronchodilators, antihistamines, oral or inhaled corticosteroids, decongestants, and mast cell stabilizers. Home remedies such as hot tea, honey, ginger, throat lozenges, drinking fluids, and sleeping with a pillow height of 5 centimeters or 2 inches can also provide relief.
It's essential to be aware of allergens and avoid them to prevent allergy-related chest congestion. Keeping a diary to track potential triggers and symptoms, taking medications as prescribed, carrying emergency medications or having them nearby at all times, wearing a medical alert bracelet, and having an emergency action plan are also recommended.
In the rare cases where chest congestion is caused by heart attack, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or pulmonary embolism, immediate medical attention is required.
Lastly, it's crucial to recognise the symptoms of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. These include hives, swelling of the face or mouth, wheezing, fast, shallow breathing, a fast heart rate, clammy skin, anxiety or confusion, dizziness, vomiting, blue or white lips, fainting or loss of consciousness.
References:
- American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. (2018). Allergy and Asthma Facts.
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2019). Allergies and Asthma.
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. (2019). Allergies.
- Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. (2019). All About Allergies.
- Mayo Clinic. (2019). Allergies.
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