Have Asthma? You Likely Have an Allergy as Well

Asthma is becoming an epidemic in the United States. The number of Americans diagnosed with asthma grows annually, with 26 million currently affected. And according to a new study, nearly two-thirds or more of all asthmatics also have an allergy, which can make this spring season particularly bothersome.

The study, which is published in the April issue of Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, the scientific journal of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), found that an astonishing 75 percent of asthmatic adults aged 20- to 40-years-old, and 65 percent of asthmatic adults aged 55 years and older, have at least one allergy.

“Allergists have known the prevalence of allergies among asthmatic children is high at 60 to 80 percent, but it was thought allergies were not as common in asthmatic adults,” said allergist Paula Busse, MD, lead study author. “These findings are important, and can help lead to proper diagnosis and treatment.”

A total of 2,573 adults were studied in a National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). A panel of 19 allergens was used to detect allergy among asthmatics.

While asthma is frequently associated with children, it is not uncommon among adults 60 years and older, affecting three to seven percent. This number is likely higher, however, because asthma is often underdiagnosed in older adults.

“Both asthma and allergies can strike at any age, and are serious diseases,” said allergist Richard Weber, MD, ACAAI president. “Anyone who thinks they may be having symptoms of an allergy or asthma should see a board-certified allergist. Allergists are experts in diagnosing and treating both conditions.”

According to the ACAAI, more than 50 million Americans have an allergy, a number which is also on the rise. Is the link between asthma and allergies a reason?

“It could be one of many creating this perfect storm for allergies,” said Dr. Weber. “Other factors, such as the hygiene hypothesis, climate change and an increase in awareness and education can also be reasons for this growth.”

Those that have symptoms of asthma or allergy can get tested for free, through the ACAAI Nationwide Asthma Screening Program. Allergists will hold screenings at about 100 locations nationwide. Screenings can be found by visiting www.acaai.org/nasp.
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2013 list of the most miserable U.S. cities for allergy sufferers...

Photo: Stewart Miles

Just in time for this year's pollen-apocalypse, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) has released their 11th annual ranking of the most miserable U.S. cities to live in if  you suffer from seasonal allergies.

Jackson, MS, claimed the top spot , followed by Knoxville, TN (#2) and Chattanooga, TN (#3).

Residents across the United States can actually expect more severe allergy conditions this year as an unusually wet winter and early warm temperatures lead to earlier tree pollination and higher levels of pollen and outdoor mold. Cities predicted to face a more challenging spring allergy season compared to one year ago include: Buffalo, NY (rising 10 spots to #15 out of 100 cities), Springfield, MA (rising from #74 to #18), Richmond, VA (rising from #46 to #22), Detroit, MI (rising from #50 to #26) and Toledo, OH (rising from #57 to #29).

"Severe weather patterns can bring higher temperatures, higher pollen levels and increased exposure to outdoor mold, resulting in spring allergies that can peak stronger and last longer," said Bill Berger , MD, Allergy and Asthma Associates of Southern California.

Recent hurricanes, severe storms and tornadoes can also affect the severity of spring allergies. The increased presence of mold in areas damaged by floods can trigger allergic reactions. Major urban areas and locations with significant construction may also see an increased risk for severe allergies, because pollen from weeds proliferates in places with development projects. Finally, ground-level ozone pollution can affect allergy symptoms.

This year's ranking shows that nasal allergies are a problem nationwide, especially in southern states. Overall, 15 of the top 25 cities on this year's ranking are in the South. These findings are consistent with research showing that spring now arrives 10 to 14 days earlier than it did just 20 years ago, bringing with it increased pollen counts.

An interactive map of 100 cities, resources about diagnosis, prevention and treatment options, resources for physicians, and more information on the study methodology are available at www.AllergyCapitals.com.

Here are the top 10:

1. Jackson, Mississippi

2. Knoxville, Tennessee

3. Chattanooga, Tennessee

4. McAllen, Texas

5. Louisville, Kentucky

6. Wichita, Kansas

7. Dayton, Ohio

8. Memphis, Tennessee

9. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

10. Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Photo: freedigitalphotos.net

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iPhone v.s Blackberry – One may actually cause an allergic reaction

This is one feature you didn't consider in your android vs. Blackberry vs. iphone debate.

“Approximately one-third of all Blackberries contain nickel...,” said allergist Tania Mucci, M.D., lead author of a new study. "Neither cobalt nor nickel was detected in iPhones or Droids."

Both metals can cause an allergic reaction including dry, itchy patches along the cheek bones, jaw line and ears.

Blackberry die-hards with known metal allergies are advised to avoid prolonged conversations, text messaging and handling their phones if they begin noticing symptoms.

Nickel is actually one of the most common contact allergens, affecting 17 percent of women and 3 percent of men.

News worse for flip phones

If you're still holing on to your old flip phone the news is worse. Roughly 91 percent contained nickel and 52 percent tested positive for cobalt.

Symptoms of nickel and cobalt allergies can include redness, swelling, itching, eczema, blistering, skin lesions and occasional scarring. For sufferers that are glued to their phones, the allergists suggest plastic phone cases, wireless ear pieces and clear film screens to decrease allergic reactions.

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Do you suffer from seasonal allergies? Experts agree that reducing exposure is the quickest route to allergy relief. Consider a indoor air purifier for allergies with HEPA and carbon filtration. A good quality air cleaner can reduce airborne allergens by 99.97% (particles 0.3 microns and larger) and reduce airborne chemicals, gasses, and odors for cleaner indoor air.

Photo: freedigitalphotos.net