An allergy is the response of the body to food or a foreign substance, while asthma is a respiratory condition that can occur due to an allergy and can be chronic. Asthma and allergies can be treated in various ways. This article explains some of the multiple treatment options for asthma and allergies.

Medications
One of the key treatment options for asthma and allergies is to take medication for immediate relief from the troublesome symptoms. Some of the common medicines are:

• Antihistamines
  Antihistamines are helpful during an allergy attack, as they block histamines and help alleviate the symptoms of an allergy.
• Bronchodilators
  These medicines dilate the airways during an asthma attack and provide relief from wheezing and breathing issues. Bronchodilators are emergency medications that are usually taken through an inhaler to provide instant relief.
• Corticosteroids
  Corticosteroids may be taken through an inhaler or as tablets or ointment (for skin allergies). They help reduce inflammation triggered by allergies.
• Decongestants
  These medications help clear nose blockage that occurs due to an allergic reaction. They can be administered orally or in the form of a nasal spray for instant relief from the symptoms. Saline sprays can also be helpful in treating nasal congestion.
• Mast cell stabilizers
  These medicines block the release of chemicals from the immune system that cause allergic reactions. They can be taken as tablets, but they are administered in the form of eye drops for treating allergies affecting the eyes.

Allergy shots
Allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy, involve the use of an injection that makes the immune system produce antibodies. Firstly, a doctor identifies the substance causing an allergic reaction, and then the medication is prepared using small amounts of the allergens.
When this is injected into the body, it stimulates the immune system to create antibodies. Once these antibodies are created, they remain in the body and can fight subsequent allergic reactions. Since only a small amount of the allergen is injected, it does not cause severe reactions.

Antibody treatment
Antibody treatment can be helpful for severe cases of asthma or allergies. It involves the injection of antibodies into the body to fight allergies and prevent the symptoms.

Auto-injector
An auto-injector is required for severe allergies that can cause life-threatening complications. Some allergies can cause anaphylaxis, which can cause severe complications like breathing difficulties, swelling of the tongue, and fainting. This commonly happens due to peanut allergy or allergy to a medication or any other substance.
In such a situation, epinephrine needs to be injected to provide immediate relief from the symptoms. People who have severe allergies are recommended to carry an auto-injector with them.

The treatment options for asthma and allergies are effective, but one needs to understand the symptoms and approach a doctor at the earliest to treat the condition and improve their quality of life.