Coughing is a common symptom that many people associate with colds, the flu, or respiratory infections. However, if you find yourself coughing persistently without any of these illnesses, allergies might be the culprit. At Texas ENT Specialists (TENTS), we understand how frustrating and disruptive a persistent cough can be, and we're here to help you find answers and relief.
How Allergies Can Trigger a Cough
Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to substances like pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander. This overreaction can lead to inflammation in your nasal passages and airways, resulting in various symptoms, including coughing.
There are two primary ways allergies can cause a cough:
Postnasal Drip
Allergies often cause your nasal passages to produce excess mucus. This mucus can drip down the back of your throat, triggering a reflexive cough. Postnasal drip is one of the most common reasons for allergy-related coughing, and a tickling sensation in the throat often accompanies it.
Airway Irritation
When allergens are inhaled, they can irritate the sensitive lining of your respiratory system. This irritation can lead to persistent coughing, especially for individuals with asthma or other respiratory sensitivities.
How to Tell If Your Cough Is Allergy-Related
Unlike a cough caused by a cold or flu, an allergy-related cough tends to be:
- Dry: It doesn’t produce phlegm or mucus.
- Persistent: It may linger for weeks or months, especially during allergy season or exposure to allergens.
- Accompanied by Other Allergy Symptoms: These can include sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, nasal congestion, and a runny nose.
If you notice these symptoms, it may be time to consult a specialist. An experienced provider can help identify the root cause of your cough and recommend effective treatments.
Diagnosing an Allergy-Related Cough
The first step to managing your allergy-related cough is determining the allergens responsible. At Texas ENT Specialists, we offer comprehensive allergy testing to identify specific triggers. Whether it’s environmental factors like pollen and mold or indoor allergens such as pet dander and dust mites, pinpointing the cause allows us to create a tailored treatment plan for you.
Treatment Options for Allergy-Related Coughs
Once we’ve identified the source of your allergies, there are several effective treatments available:
Allergy Medications
Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays can help reduce symptoms and prevent postnasal drip.
Asensa Drops®
Available at TENTS, these sublingual allergy drops are a convenient, needle-free option to help desensitize your immune system to allergens.
Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy)
For long-term relief, allergy shots can gradually build your tolerance to specific allergens, reducing your symptoms over time.
Environmental Control
Minimizing exposure to allergens—such as using air purifiers or regularly washing bedding—can help reduce triggers and alleviate coughing.
Why Choose Texas ENT Specialists for Allergy Care?
At Texas ENT Specialists, we have been providing exceptional ENT care for over 25 years. Our team of experienced physicians is dedicated to helping you manage your allergy symptoms, including chronic coughing. With 18 convenient locations across Houston and San Antonio, relief is never far away.
We take a patient-centered approach to care, tailoring treatment plans to your specific needs. Whether you need allergy testing, medications, or advanced immunotherapy options, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Take Control of Your Allergy-Related Cough
A persistent cough doesn’t have to interfere with your daily life. If allergies are making you cough, the ENT specialists at Texas ENT Specialists can help you find lasting relief. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and breathe easier, knowing expert care is just around the corner.
