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Respiratory Symptoms

Many things can cause shallow breathing, like a common cold or even an intense workout. But feeling a shortness of breath—like you can’t get enough air into your lungs—or tightness in your chest, with no obvious cause, can be alarming.

The same immune system reaction that causes other allergy symptoms —like nasal congestion or inflammation, and a runny nose—can also affect the lungs and airways, which can lead to respiratory symptoms. Allergies and asthma share a connection: Up to 90% of children and 60% of adults with asthma have underlying allergies that trigger their asthma.1,2 

 

Respiratory allergy symptoms infographic

Common respiratory allergy symptoms:

  • Breathing through the mouth
  • Chest tightness
  • Shallow breathing
  • Coughing
  • Wheezing

Respiratory issues can also stem from irritants like:

  • Air pollution
  • Chemical fumes
  • Cigarette smoke
  • Strong odors, including scented lotions and perfumes 
 

Common Causes of Respiratory Allergy Symptoms

A variety of health issues can cause your respiratory issues and discomfort, including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), emphysema, chronic bronchitis, lung cancer, tuberculosis, pneumonia, asthma and stress. 

Allergies are also a common cause of respiratory issues, like allergic asthma. 

Some common allergens that could cause respiratory symptoms include:

References
  1. Allen-Ramey F, et al. J Am Board Fam Pract 2005;18(5):434-439.
  2. Host A, Halken S. Allergy 2000;55:600-608.