You MAY have Allergies
The month of May marks peak season for allergy sufferers, so it makes sense that the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) uses this time to educate Americans about preventing and treating asthma and allergies.
Asthma is a disease of the lungs that needs to be diagnosed by a doctor. There are two forms of asthma: allergic or extrinsic asthma and non-allergic or intrinsic asthma. Both forms are characterized by difficulty breathing; however that difficulty is caused by different triggers. Allergic asthma is triggered by an allergic reaction from an inhaled allergen and is partially reversible with medication. This is the most common form of asthma, with 2.5 million children and 10 million adults suffering from it. Non-allergic asthma is also partially treatable with medication; however it is triggered by factors such as anxiety, stress, exercise, cold air, dry air, hyperventilation, smoke, or irritants. In addition, non-allergic asthma doesn’t involve the immune system.
There are several forms of allergies and they are grouped together by triggers. Find out more information by clicking on each allergy type.
- Indoor – Occur when common indoor allergens, such as cat or dog dander, dust and mold, are inhaled and lead to allergic reactions such as coughing, sneezing and nasal congestion.
- Outdoor – Occur when common outdoor allergens, such as pollen and mold are inhaled and set off allergic reactions such as coughing, sneezing, and nasal congestion.
- Food & Drug – These are serious allergic reactions to either a food or medication that may require immediate medical attention.
- Latex – Occurs when a person comes in contact with natural latex either by physical contact or inhalation.
- Insect – Triggered by stinging or biting insects. A person could present with many different symptoms. Many forms of insect allergies can be life threatening and require immediate medical attention.
- Skin – Occurs when an allergen comes in contact with skin. In addition, hives or rashes can appear on the skin in reaction to air born allergens and food allergies.
- Eye – Commonly referred to as “pink eye” or “conjunctivitis,” it is brought about by allergens, irritants, viruses and bacteria that produce an inflammation in the conjunctiva tissue. It is contagious when it is originated by a virus or bacteria, but it’s not serious and not contagious when caused by an allergen.
It is very common for asthma or allergy suffers to cut corners or forget to take their medications regularly, which can lead to complications. For those with chronic forms of Asthma and allergies, Healthfirst’s Spectrum of Care™ program can help. This program works with each member’s healthcare team, including their PCP, to emphasize education and intervention.
For more information, please call 1-800-394-4327.
