ACHOO! Gesundheit!

May was National Asthma and Allergy Month

ACHOO! Gesundheit!

May was National Asthma and Allergy Month. While May is over, it seems like everyone's allergies are not! The pollen is visible in the air and wafting from trees in the breeze, which makes many of us sneeze and sniffle. If you or your loved one has been showing signs of itchy-watery eyes, sneezing and sniffling, or scratchy throat, it could be a sign of seasonal allergies. 

Asthma and allergic diseases, such as allergic rhinitis (hay fever), food allergy, and eczema, are common for all age groups in the United States. Asthma affects more than 24 million people in the U.S., including more than 6 million children.

Allergies are the 6th leading cause of chronic illness in the U.S. with an annual cost in excess of $18 billion. More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year.

Symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis occur in spring, summer and/or early fall. They are usually caused by allergic sensitivity to pollens from trees, grasses or weeds, or to airborne mold spores. 

People with perennial allergic rhinitis experience symptoms year-round. Perennial allergic rhinitis is generally caused by sensitivity to house dust mites, animal dander, cockroaches and/or mold spores.

Once diagnosed, allergic rhinitis treatment options are: avoidance, eliminating or decreasing your exposure to the irritants or allergens that trigger your symptoms, medication and immunotherapy (allergy shots).

Myth: We Outgrow Allergies over Time

The real deal: Not necessarily. Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to the presence of “invaders” such as pollen, mold, and dust mites. Your system releases compounds that can cause inflammation, excess mucus, and itchiness in your eyes, ears, and throat.

Amy Adam Tue, Jun 5th, 2018