The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology emphasizes the link between uncontrolled allergies and asthma flares.
RT’s Three Key Takeaways:
- Allergic Asthma Prevalence: Allergic asthma is the most frequent form of the disease, often triggered by environmental allergens such as pollen, mold, and pet dander.
- Specialized Fellowship Training: Allergists undergo fellowship training specifically for asthma and allergic disease to help patients identify triggers and develop personalized treatment plans.
- Allergy Management Impact: Addressing underlying allergies through medication, avoidance, or immunotherapy can significantly reduce the frequency of asthma symptoms and flares.
May is Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, a time dedicated to improving symptom control for the more than 25 million Americans living with the condition, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI).
“May is Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, a perfect time to remind people what it looks and feels like when their asthma is well controlled,” said Cherie Zachary, MD, president of the ACAAI, in a news release.
The ACAAI noted that while many patients believe their asthma is managed, unchecked symptoms often lead to unnecessary flares. Allergic asthma is the most common form of the disease, with triggers including pollen, pet dander, mold, dust mites, and cockroach particles.
“Many people don’t know allergists are specially trained asthma experts,” said Zachary, president of the ACAAI, in a news release. “We complete additional fellowship training focused specifically on asthma and allergic disease, which means we’re uniquely equipped to identify triggers, develop personalized treatment plans, and help patients achieve real control over their symptoms.”
Addressing underlying allergies through avoidance strategies, medication, or immunotherapy can significantly improve how often a patient experiences symptoms. The ACAAI recommended that patients reassess their treatment plans during May, as spring pollen counts and outdoor allergen exposure typically peak during this time.
“If your asthma isn’t well controlled, or if you’ve never seen an allergist, May is a great time to make an appointment,” said Zachary, president of the ACAAI. “There’s a lot we can do together to help you breathe easier and live more fully.”
