Allergy and Asthma Awareness

by Abigail Knowles Wolfe (BPRW)

The AAOA (American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy) defines “allergy” as a genetic condition causing the body to respond to harmless substances in the environment as though they were dangerous invaders.  The response mentioned here produces symptoms that range from mild and irritating to life-threatening in more susceptible people.  As an allergy sufferer myself I know that my own body is constantly battling what it perceives as harmful, which wears down my regular immunities, often leading to other colds and sicknesses that take me out of commission for days at a time.

The month of May recognizes National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month due to the high number of seasonal allergies present, affecting asthma sufferers too.  According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), May is therefore the best time to spread awareness and understand of allergies and asthma to schools, coworkers, friends and family.  A few fits of sneezing are just the tip of the ice berg for allergy sufferers who experience a range of symptoms that include feeling dizzy and light headed, having shortness of breath and full blown asthmatic symptoms.

More than 50 million Americans have allergies and 20 million have asthma, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.  Allergies and their treatment cost Americans nearly $7 billion annually, and asthma costs exceed that at an estimated $18 billion annually! There are more than 5000 annual deaths owing to asthma each year and more women die of asthma than men.  Asthma is slightly more prevalent amongst African Americans than Caucasian Americans.  African American women have the highest asthma mortality rate of all groups and are 2.5 times more likely to die of asthma complications than Caucasian women.

Advice for preventing asthma attacks is often the same advice given to allergy sufferers.  Wood or tile floors are always suggested over carpet which collects more dust mites, pet dander and other allergens.  For those with carpet there are special treatments for removing allergens.  Wood and tile floors are easier to clean on a regular basis.  Linens, pillows and beds should all be covered with allergen barriers.  Air filters, especially high quality HEPA filters are necessary to keep the air breathable for asthma sufferers and should be cleaned out regularly.  This month awareness is key to helping allergy and asthma sufferers live and breathe easier.