Each May, we take the time to shine a spotlight on two conditions that impact millions of Americans every single day: asthma and allergies. Designated as Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, May is a time to raise awareness, educate our communities, and encourage those affected to seek better treatment and management. With spring in full swing—and pollen levels peaking—it’s also a timely reminder of how environmental triggers can affect those living with these conditions.
Let’s dive into what makes this month so important, the differences and connections between asthma and allergies, and how you can take steps toward better breathing and healthier living.
What Is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic lung condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to breathing difficulties. Common symptoms include:
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Wheezing
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Shortness of breath
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Coughing (especially at night or early morning)
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Chest tightness or pain
Asthma affects over 25 million Americans, including more than 5 million children. While there’s no cure, it can be managed with the right treatment plan. Asthma severity varies greatly from person to person—some experience mild occasional symptoms, while others may have more frequent, severe attacks that require emergency care.
What Are Allergies?
Allergies occur when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance—like pollen, pet dander, dust mites, mold, or certain foods—as if it were harmful. These reactions can range from mild (like sneezing or itchy eyes) to life-threatening (like anaphylaxis).
There are many types of allergies, including:
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Seasonal allergies (also called hay fever or allergic rhinitis)
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Food allergies
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Skin allergies (like eczema or hives)
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Insect sting allergies
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Drug allergies
Seasonal allergies are particularly common in the spring and fall, when pollen counts soar due to blooming trees, grasses, and weeds. They affect more than 50 million Americans each year and often overlap with asthma.
The Asthma-Allergy Connection
It’s no coincidence that asthma and allergies are often mentioned together. In fact, many people with asthma also have allergies—a condition known as allergic asthma. This means their asthma symptoms are triggered by allergens, like pollen, mold, dust mites, or pet dander.
When someone with allergic asthma is exposed to one of their triggers, their immune system overreacts, leading to inflammation in the lungs and a narrowing of the airways. This makes it harder to breathe and can lead to an asthma attack if not properly managed.
Identifying and avoiding allergy triggers is a crucial part of asthma management for many patients.
Why May Matters
So, why dedicate an entire month to asthma and allergies?
Because awareness saves lives. The more we know, the better we can manage, treat, and support those living with these conditions. Here’s what May’s focus helps accomplish:
1. Educating the Public
Many people don’t realize how serious asthma and allergies can be. For example, asthma can be life-threatening if not managed correctly. Raising awareness helps individuals recognize symptoms early, seek diagnosis, and start treatment before complications arise.
2. Supporting the Diagnosed
For people living with asthma or allergies, daily life can include avoiding triggers, taking medications, monitoring symptoms, and attending regular medical appointments. Awareness Month provides encouragement and resources for those managing these challenges.
3. Encouraging Screenings and Treatment
Some people may have undiagnosed asthma or allergic conditions. If you’re experiencing symptoms like chronic cough, wheezing, itchy eyes, or frequent sinus infections, it might be time to see a specialist. May is a great reminder to check in with your allergy provider.
4. Promoting Advocacy and Research
Awareness leads to action. This month brings attention to the need for continued research, improved treatment options, and better access to care—especially for underserved communities that often face higher rates of asthma-related complications.
How to Get Involved
There are many ways to participate in Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, whether you’re personally affected or just want to help raise awareness in your community:
Educate Yourself and Others
Share facts, tips, and stories on social media. Talk to friends and family about the importance of understanding asthma and allergies. The more we talk about it, the more informed we all become.
Wear Teal
Teal is the official color of food allergy awareness, and it’s often used during this month to represent all allergies. Wearing teal shows solidarity and can be a great conversation starter.
Support Advocacy Groups
Organizations like the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), and Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) offer valuable resources, host events, and advocate for policy changes to support patients.
Visit a Specialist
If you’ve been struggling with breathing issues, unexplained congestion, or allergy symptoms, now’s a perfect time to schedule a visit with an allergist or pulmonologist. Proper diagnosis is the first step toward feeling better.
Make Your Environment Safer
Simple steps at home—like using HEPA filters, cleaning regularly, and keeping windows closed during high pollen days—can make a big difference for those with asthma and allergies.
Tips for Managing Asthma and Allergies
Here are some practical steps to help you or a loved one breathe easier this season and beyond:
For Asthma:
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Take your controller medication as prescribed—even if you feel fine.
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Always carry a rescue inhaler in case of sudden symptoms.
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Track your symptoms and peak flow to monitor lung function.
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Avoid known triggers, whether they’re allergens, smoke, or cold air.
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Follow your Asthma Action Plan and update it regularly with your doctor.
For Allergies:
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Check daily pollen counts and limit outdoor activity when levels are high.
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Keep windows closed and use air conditioning when possible.
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Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors.
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Wash bedding weekly in hot water to eliminate dust mites.
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Consider allergy testing and immunotherapy (allergy shots) if symptoms persist.
May is more than just a celebration of spring—it’s a call to action for health, education, and awareness. Asthma and allergies are common, but they’re also manageable with the right knowledge and support. Whether you’re living with these conditions or know someone who is, take this month as an opportunity to learn more, share more, and do more.