National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month is Here!

Do you know someone who suffers from allergies? Of course, you do.

In the United States, 50 million people suffer from allergies, one in five Americans. Allergies affect 20% of the adult population and 40% of children. May is National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month, so we’re here to help make you more aware of the symptoms and treatments for allergies and asthma.

What Does This Mean for You?

Every May, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America hosts this month-long celebration. They encourage individuals to take time to prepare for the upcoming pollen season and assess their current asthma and allergy management strategies. It is also an opportunity to learn about these conditions’ impact on millions of people in the United States.

For some perspective: allergies affect more than 50 million Americans – that’s one in five people! And those with allergies are more likely to develop asthma, a condition for which there is no cure. And it doesn’t end there: according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 25 million Americans have asthma, with 7 million being children.

How Do I Treat Allergy Symptoms?

Check out the tips below to help you prepare for allergy season and remind you that we’re all in this together.

• know what kinds of food cause allergies in your family.
• ask your pediatrician which allergy medications are safe for you to take.
• Talk to an allergist at least once a year about maintaining good health during the allergy season.

To learn more about how allergies can affect your life, visit our blog at https://aaiacf.com/blog/

How Do I Treat Asthma Symptoms?

Asthma is a prevalent condition that affects the airways, causing them to constrict and make it difficult to breathe. If you’ve ever been diagnosed with asthma or know someone who has, you may be wondering how to treat asthma symptoms.

 

There are a lot of different types of asthma medications on the market. The type of medication that you need depends on the severity of your asthma, your age, and other factors.

You may only need an inhaled bronchodilator if you have mild asthma symptoms. These medications are usually taken using an inhaler device right before exercise to prevent symptoms, and they can be used for quick relief of symptoms.

If your asthma symptoms are more severe or frequent, you may need a daily medication in addition to an inhaler for quick relief. Daily medications help reduce inflammation in the airways, which helps prevent flare-ups.

There are many different options for treating asthma symptoms, and the best choice for you depends on several factors. Talk to your doctor about what’s best for you and your lifestyle.

How Can I Prevent Allergy and Asthma Flare-ups?

Here are a few tips to help you prevent flare-ups:

• Avoiding allergens. If allergies are your problem, you probably know what they are! Do your best to avoid them. This can be as simple as staying inside if the pollen count is high or not having pets around!
• Clean your home regularly. Pollen, dust, and dander can collect on surfaces and in the air, so it’s essential to minimize their presence by cleaning your home with a damp rag or mop—especially if you have carpeting! In addition, vacuuming once a week will help keep the dander down. Don’t forget about washing bedding in hot water at least once per week, too—it helps get rid of dust mites that could be aggravating your allergies in their sleep!

What Can I do If My Symptoms Are Severe?

If you know your symptoms are severe, it’s essential to see a doctor. They might prescribe an anti-inflammatory (like cortisone) or another type of medication if they feel you need it.

Remember, you should never take medications without first consulting with a doctor who knows your complete medical history and the severity of your allergies. Ignoring severe symptoms can be life-threatening. People with severe allergies are always at risk of anaphylaxis when interacting with their allergens, and they might have to carry epinephrine around in case of a reaction.

With May being National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month, it’s a Great Time to Ensure You’re Taking Care of Your Allergies and Asthma

Here are a few reminders to help you make the most of seasonal allergy and asthma relief:

1. Limit outdoor activities when pollen counts are at their highest, usually in the late morning and early afternoon.
2. Stay indoors when it’s windy outside, as this can stir up pollen grains from plants in nature and your backyard.
3. Keep windows closed in your home and car to prevent pollen from coming inside.
4. Prevent cross-contamination by washing clothes you wear before wearing them again and taking a shower after being outdoors for extended periods (and before bed).
5. Flush allergens out of your nose with an alcohol-free saline nasal rinse or spray every day (especially if you’re prone to sinus infections).

If allergies interfere with sleep or daily activities, talk to an allergist about allergy testing and treatment options like allergy shots that may be right for you!