Asthma and Allergies

May is National Asthma and Allergies Awareness Month – let’s get educated.

People who suffer from asthma and allergies are most affected in the month of May when allergens are at their highest count. 

There are over 24 million people in the US who have asthma, 7 million of those are children.  An annual 50% reported mild to severe attacks.  By learning some of the facts about asthma and allergies it is hoped that more people will be aware of early symptoms and take action sooner rather than later.  Taking preventative action may improve the quality of life for many asthma and allergy suffers as well as save time and money spent on added emergency bills.

Asthma can be a serious and sometimes life-threatening chronic respiratory illness. It can affect anyone and at any time of their life. And though no one knows why some people develop asthma and others don't, research has found it is a combination of your environment and family history.

Once you have asthma, there is no cure and it will be with you for the rest of your life.

Symptoms of Asthma may include shortness of breath, a feeling of tightness in the chest, coughing and wheezing.  Allergy symptoms vary from mild to severe with congestion, watery eyes, runny nose, skin rash, fever and headaches.

At the start of an asthma attack you may experience itching around your eyes and face that soon progresses to swelling – causing difficulty in breathing.  Severe attacks can also lead to diarrhea, cramps, vomiting, confusion and dizziness.

Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to foreign materials and kick off an inflammatory response.  Certain weeds, grasses and trees release miniscule bits of pollen into the air, which we then inhale, triggering an allergic reaction.  Other allergens such as dust mite poop and mold spores can also bring about sneezing, water eyes and runny nose.

Scientist are working on a theory to help us understand why some people’s immune systems over react to allergens and others don’t.  Research has also revealed that the longer your system is exposed to the allergen the worse your symptoms can become.  This can happen especially if your immune system is has been compromised.

Awareness month is meant to educate more people about asthma and what triggers have been reported to bring about an attack and how it can be controlled.   Environmental triggers such as smoke, certain molds, pet dander and dust mites are known triggers.  Learning how to avoid these triggers with the correct treatment can help people who suffer from asthma lead a healthy active life.

The AAFA has compiled a 14 page comprehensive guide to Asthma and Allergy awareness month.  Click here to download.

If you are one of the 24 million who suffer from allergies and asthma educate yourself on the mechanics of homeopathic and Immunotherapy allergena.com.