National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month

Spring has just started, and with blooming flowers and warmer days comes runny noses and asthma flare-ups. Roughly 65 million Americans suffer from asthma or allergies and this season is the toughest for most if not all. As a result, May has been designated as National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA).

Asthma vs. Allergies: What are the differences?

Both asthma and allergies can occur in conjunction with one another and often seem very similar at first. These distinctions are very important

Allergies: Allergies are when the body’s immune system responds and overreacts to a foreign substance that would normally not be a threat, such as dust, pollen, or pet dander. Itchy eyes, a runny nose, dry skin, and hives are all common symptoms. Most, if not all these symptoms can be treated by avoiding the allergen or, if necessary, taking medication. In some instances, allergies may aggravate and trigger asthma.

Asthma: Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the lungs that can result in coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. On top of the common triggers of allergies (dust, pollen, and pet dander), which is also referred to as allergy-induced asthma, exercise, smoke, and stress can also trigger an asthma attack.

Patients are always advised to seek medical guidance in the effort of developing a treatment strategy when experiencing asthma and/or allergy issues. A peak flow meter can be used to help strengthen your lungs and track your daily progress. Doctors also tend to prescribe nebulizer treatment, which allows the patient to inhale medications into the lungs.

It is encouraged by the AAFA that patients and their medical providers work together to develop a customized plan of action. These plans allow patients to record important information, such as appropriate medications and benchmarks to watch for. These action plans are typically organized into three parts-Green, Yellow, and Red-representing different levels of severity.

Green (Go)

• Normal breathing
• No coughing or wheezing
• You are able to do all the things you normally do

Action: Continue your regular course of treatment and prescribed medication as necessary.

Yellow (Caution)

• Signs and symptoms of a cold
• Exposure to a known trigger
• Mild coughing and/or wheezing

Action: Add any appropriate medication and/or treatment as instructed and prescribed by your doctor.

Red (Danger)

• Medicine is not helping
• Hard and fast breathing
• Difficulty speaking

Action: Take prescribed medication and seek medical help immediately!

Asthma and allergies affect everyone differently, and as a result treatment plans can vary from person to person. Your conditions can be managed by staying up to date on treatment plans and being aware of your symptoms. This month of Asthma and Allergy Awareness is a wonderful opportunity to help your friends, family, and loved ones care for themselves during these budding times.