The Allergy Cough: Understanding and Managing Allergy-Induced Coughing

Allergy-induced coughing is often persistent and can easily be mistaken for symptoms of a cold or flu. Triggered by the same factors that cause respiratory allergies, this cough can, and should, be treated. Learn more below.

What Is Allergy-Induced Coughing and Why Does It Occur?

When we inhale certain allergens, such as pollen, dust, mites, mould, and even substances found in animal fur, our immune system may overreact, leading to allergic symptoms, one of which is coughing.

Our body identifies these substances as threats and, in response, releases histamine and other chemicals to combat them. This inflammatory process can cause irritation in the airways, resulting in a persistent cough, sneezing, postnasal drip, itchy eyes, and other symptoms that those suffering from hayfever are all too familiar with.

The secretion produced by the body as a defence mechanism drips down the back of the throat, triggering an allergic cough. This cough can be persistent, lasting weeks or even months, significantly impacting an individual’s quality of life.

What Causes Allergy-Induced Coughing?

Allergy-induced coughing can be triggered by various environmental factors and substances present in our daily lives:

• Pollen:

  During spring and summer, plants enter their reproductive phase and release pollen into the air. Pollen is one of the primary allergens responsible for allergy-induced coughing.

• Mites:

  These microscopic organisms live in environments such as mattresses, pillows, and carpets, feeding on dead skin cells. Contact with these creatures can trigger allergic reactions in many people, with coughing being a common symptom.

• Animal Fur:

  Pet fur and saliva may contain allergens that, when inhaled, can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

• Mould:

  Damp environments are conducive to mould growth. Mould spores irritate the body and cause allergies, with coughing being a common symptom.

These factors can act as triggers for those suffering from hayfever, as they inflame the airways, stimulate the nerves in the throat, and result in allergy-induced coughing.

Is pollen one of the most common allergy triggers?

Do Medications That Dry Out the Throat Cause Coughing?

Some medications, including first-generation antihistamines, can cause dryness in the throat, which in turn may lead to coughing. This occurs because dryness reduces the amount of protective mucus in the throat, making it more susceptible to irritation.

It is important to note that not all antihistamines have this side effect. For example, Histallay®, a second-generation antihistamine, has been developed to minimise these issues. It blocks the action of histamine without causing dryness in the throat, making it effective in relieving symptoms, including allergy-induced coughing.

Symptoms That Accompany Allergy-Induced Coughing

Other symptoms may accompany allergy-induced coughing, strongly indicating that the individual is suffering from allergic rhinitis:

• Frequent Sneezing:

  Sneezing often occurs as one of the first signs that the body is reacting to an allergen. It is usually frequent and occurs in quick succession.

• Runny Nose:

  A constantly runny nose is also a sign that allergens are present in the environment.

• Watery Eyes and Itchy Eyes:

  Some people experience these symptoms, especially those suffering from hayfever.

• Nasal Congestion:

  A feeling of nasal obstruction can also accompany allergy-induced coughing and may be a symptom of rhinitis or allergic attacks.

• Sore Throat:

  The secretion produced by the body as a defence mechanism can leave the throat irritated and sore, exacerbating cases of allergy-induced coughing.

How to Tell if the Cough Is Allergy-Induced or a Result of a Cold or Flu

Allergy-induced coughing is very similar to the cough associated with a cold or flu. However, we can pay attention to its duration and the presence of other symptoms:

• Duration:

  Allergy-induced coughing can last for weeks or months and may appear without any other symptoms. Coughing related to a cold or flu generally disappears within one or two weeks.

• Presence of Fever:

  Allergy-induced coughing does not cause fever. However, colds and flu can lead to an increase in body temperature.

• Mucus Colour:

  Allergic reactions also produce mucus, but it tends to be clearer. Yellow or green mucus may indicate an infection.

Preventing Allergy-Induced Coughing

It is possible to prevent allergic attacks and their symptoms. Consider the following:

• Avoid Known Allergens:

  Learn to identify your triggers for allergic rhinitis or hayfever, and in this way, you will reduce the incidence of coughing.

• Use Air Purifiers:

  They can help remove allergen particles from the air in indoor environments.

• Keep Environments Clean and Well Ventilated:

  This reduces dust and mites, which can trigger coughing.

• Shower Upon Returning Home:

  Remove pollen and other allergens from your clothes or skin by always showering when you get home. This also helps to avoid transferring these allergens to your bed.

Treatments for Allergy-Induced Coughing

To relieve the symptoms of allergy-induced coughing, antihistamine medications, such as Histallay®, are an effective option. Histallay® blocks the action of histamine, responsible for triggering the allergic reaction, providing fast and prolonged relief from symptoms.

In addition, the use of decongestants and saline solutions can help clear the nasal passages, reducing the amount of secretion and irritation in the throat.

Is Night-time Coughing an Allergy-Induced Cough?

It could be. Coughing that occurs predominantly at night may be an indication of allergy-induced coughing. This happens because, when lying down, mucus drips more intensely into the back of the throat, triggering the cough.

Furthermore, mattresses and pillows can harbour mites and fungi, which may worsen symptoms at night.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Allergy-induced coughing is usually harmless. However, if it is accompanied by certain symptoms, it may not be allergic in nature— and it is then time to consult a doctor.

If you experience difficulty breathing, severe chest pain, or blood in your mucus along with your cough, it is essential to seek medical help.

Allergy-induced coughing can be an uncomfortable and persistent symptom, but with appropriate treatment, it can be controlled, and quality of life can be maintained.

Histallay® can also be used as a preventive treatment for allergy-induced coughing.

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