Majorie Moorfield: Dear Majorie: I also had allergies long before I had PD...they run in my family. I never had asthma until about 5 yrs. before I was diagnosed (but had symptoms). Now, everytime I have the slightest allergy trouble it automatically goes into asthma, then bronchitis, and the only thing that works is cortisone, which I once had a bad reaction to. However, with the help of my allergist I have discovered ways of dealing with this problem. First, I would strongly advise taking allergy shots, if you aren't already. I have been taking them for over 20 yrs., and had become lax about it, with no problems. But now I have to be sure I get them on time. If I'm late, I invariably will start the cycle of problems all over again. I discovered this the hard way. They really help most people. Second, Get a "breathing machine", a nebulizer, for use at home. Your doctor can order you one...they aren't that expensive; my insurance paid all but $15.00 for mine. (I think it was about $80.00). The minute you have trouble with asthma use the machine. It's much safer and better for you than regular inhalers. Third, get plenty of rest and stay away from what you are allergic to. (I don't always follow my own advice & pay for it when I don't.) I think the main reason for the increased asthma problem is that PD can cause the chest muscles to tighten, thus making asthma even worse. I've also discovered that it's easy to panic when this happens . Knowing what is was made it easier to relax. That is important. Another tip: don't rest laying flat on your back...try to prop up your upper body some. It helps the breathing. Also, water therapy classes really helped me....they improve your cardiovascular system and thus, help you breathe easier. There are some new steroid nasal inhalents out that don't cause the side effects of oral steroids. These can also help. Sorry this is so long. Hope this helps, Rosemary Russell