Asthma sufferers, beware: If your symptoms tend to act up this time of year, it might not actually be your asthma that’s bothering you. Turns out, 75 percent of asthmatic adults between the ages of 20 to 40 have at least one allergy, according to a study published in the journal Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Adults aged 55 and older with asthma fare only slightly better; 65 percent have some type of allergy.

Researchers analyzed data from the 2005-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey to see if respondents were allergic to anything on a list of 19 indoor and outdoor allergens. Though previous research has shown that approximately 60 to 80 percent of children and young adults with asthma are sensitive to at least one allergen, this new study demonstrates that, of the 18.7 million adults suffering from asthma, most are battling allergies, too—even though they may not realize it. “Allergies can affect you at any age,” says Clifford Bassett, MD, medical director of Allergy and Asthma Care of New York, who was not involved in the study. “Local allergists should evaluate these individuals for possible allergic triggers so that they can be properly treated.”

It doesn’t work the other way around, though: Having allergies doesn’t mean you’re likely to suffer from asthma. Allergy symptoms involve irritated eyes, a stuffy nose, and a scratchy throat. Asthma, on the other hand, attacks the lungs and constricts airways.

Whether you have asthma or not, taking any allergy-relief pill won’t necessarily ease itchiness and sniffles. Bassett suggests consulting a physician to pinpoint whether your symptoms are due to allergies, a cold, or sinus issues—so you can get the proper treatment and actually enjoy the spring weather.

More from Women’s Health:
Fight Seasonal Allergies
Your Body On…Allergies
Allergies: Lifestyle Tips

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