Each year, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) declares May to be "National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month."

It's a peak season for those with asthma and allergies, and a perfect time to educate your patients, family, friends, co-workers and others about these diseases.

There is no cure for asthma and allergies, and many deaths are preventable with proper treatment and care. Ten people a day die from asthma. Asthma affects more than 24.5 million Americans. More than 6 million children under the age of 18 have asthma. More than 50 million Americans have all types of allergies – pollen, skin, latex and more. The rate of allergies is climbing.

Remember:

• Talk to your primary healthcare provider about any asthma or allergy symptoms.
• There is no cure for asthma. The best way to manage asthma is to avoid triggers, take meds to prevent symptoms & prepare to treat attacks
• Common asthma symptoms are coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing and chest tightness
• An asthma episode, also called an asthma flare-up or asthma attack can happen any time. Mild symptoms may only last a few minutes while more severe asthma symptoms can last hours or days
• Climate change will make asthma and allergies worse.
• Showering at night removes pollen from your hair before you go to bed.