Allergy Cough Symptoms

Coughing is a natural way the body prevents infection, bacteria and allergens from entering the body, according to the Austin Diagnostic Clinic. When an allergen is inhaled, the body will respond by coughing to eject it from the throat. In other cases, an allergic reaction can cause the sinuses to produce mucus that drips down the back of the throat, leading to a cough An allergy cough has common symptoms of a cough accompanied by other symptoms that are the result of an allergic reaction. Talk with a family medical doctor or an allergist for a proper diagnosis.

Coughing

Coughing is the most common symptom of an allergy cough, most likely caused by allergic rhinitis, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology 2. When the throat becomes irritated or tickled by an allergen or nasal discharge, the cough reflex responds by sending signals to the brain to begin coughing. Although coughing is beneficial to loosen and expel mucus buildup, it can also irritate the throat, increasing the cause of the cough, according to the Austin Diagnostic Clinic.

Post Nasal Drip

Postnasal drip is a common symptom of an allergy cough. Postnasal drip is the result of inflamed sinuses. During an allergic reaction, the sinus cavity becomes inflamed, cutting off the normal flow of mucus out of the nose. The stopped-up mucus slowly drains in the throat. The constant flow of mucus down the throat creates irritation and a tickling that produces a cough. Postnasal drip is treated by addressing the causes of the drainage. With an allergic reaction, the person avoids allergens and takes a daily antihistamine.

Wheezing

If coughing is the result of allergic asthma, the cough will be accompanied by wheezing, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America 2. This condition causes the airways in the lungs to become inflamed, restricting breathing and causing a high-pitched sound, called wheezing. Wheezing may increase from further throat irritation. Wheezing is commonly treated by avoiding allergens and using medicated inhalers that reduce inflammation in the airways.

Allergy Symptoms

Cough symptoms from an allergic reaction will be accompanied with other allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, watery eyes, asthma or nasal congestion 2. In some cases hives and skin rashes may accompany an allergy cough. If someone experiences shortness of breathe and cannot breathe, she should seek immediate medical help.