Get The Facts of Asthma in the United States

Did you know that May is Asthma Awareness Month? Asthma refers to chronic inflammation of the lung airways that can cause coughing, chest tightness, wheezing or shortness of breath. Get the facts on Asthma in the US.

• At least 26 million Americans have asthma, and that number grows each year.
  
• Asthma accounts for nearly 4,000 deaths every year.
  
• Annually, asthma-related incidents lead to 456,000 hospitalizations and 1.75 million ER visits.
  
• As the most common chronic childhood illness, asthma accounts for 10.5 million missed school days every year.
  
• There are a variety of triggers that can initiate an asthma attack, such as allergens (including pollen, dust, animal dander, drugs or food additives), viral respiratory infections, and physical exertion.
  
• Even weather conditions—extremely dry, wet or windy weather—can worsen asthma symptoms.
  
• Asthma can often be hereditary.
  
• Long-term control medications are preventive and taken daily to control asthma symptoms. Quick-relief medications rapidly treat asthma attacks and are taken as needed.
  
• Allergy shots may be considered if asthma is triggered by exposure to certain allergens, or if symptoms occur at least three days a week and more than two nights a month.
  
• Allergists are the medical specialists with the most expertise in treating asthma. An allergist can find the source of your suffering and stop it.
  

Do you need help getting your asthma symptoms under control? Make an appointment with Covenant Allergy and Asthma today!