Millions of Americans with asthma, particularly the roughly 8% whose condition is triggered by allergies, may be unaware that significant improvements in their symptom management are possible. As May marks Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, allergists are urging individuals to take proactive steps to better control their allergic asthma and improve their quality of life.
“Allergic asthma can feel particularly challenging, but it’s crucial for individuals to understand that effective management strategies exist,” emphasizes James Tracy, DO, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “Too often, people believe their asthma is adequately controlled when it isn’t. Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month is the ideal time to focus on the allergy-asthma connection and empower patients with actionable steps to gain better control with the help of an allergist.”
Empowering Yourself: Practical Strategies for Better Asthma Control
For individuals with allergic asthma, identifying and minimizing exposure to their specific triggers is a cornerstone of effective management. Start by understanding your triggers. Keeping a detailed symptom diary can be incredibly helpful. Note when your asthma symptoms worsen and what potential allergens you were exposed to in the hours or days leading up to the flare-up. This could include specific times of the year, being around pets, cleaning activities, or exposure to dusty environments. Sharing this information with your allergist will be invaluable in pinpointing your sensitivities.
The next crucial step is to consult a board-certified allergist. These specialists are experts in diagnosing and treating both allergies and asthma. They can perform targeted tests, such as skin prick tests or blood tests, to definitively identify the specific allergens that trigger your allergic reactions and, consequently, your asthma symptoms. Once these triggers are identified, your allergist can help you develop personalized strategies to avoid them.
Working closely with your allergist, you’ll also want to develop a personalized Asthma Action Plan. This written document is a vital tool for managing your condition. It will outline your daily maintenance medications, explain how to recognize when your asthma symptoms are worsening, and provide clear, step-by-step instructions on what actions to take during an asthma attack. Keep this plan in an easily accessible place and ensure that family members or caregivers are also familiar with it. Furthermore, it’s essential to master your inhaler technique. Many people don’t use their inhalers correctly, significantly reducing the amount of medication that reaches their airways. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to demonstrate the proper technique and practice regularly to ensure you’re getting the full benefit of your medication.
Actively Managing Your Environment and Medications
Minimizing your exposure to identified allergens in your environment can significantly reduce asthma symptoms. For pollen allergies, keep windows and doors closed, especially during peak pollen seasons. Utilize air conditioning with HEPA filters to clean the air inside your home. After spending time outdoors, consider showering and changing your clothes to remove pollen. Regularly monitor pollen forecasts in your area to anticipate high pollen days. If pet dander is a trigger, consider establishing pet-free zones within your home, particularly bedrooms. Using air purifiers with HEPA filters and vacuuming frequently can also help. For dust mites, use allergen-proof encasements on your mattresses and pillows, wash your bedding in hot water at least weekly, and aim to reduce humidity levels in your home. If mold is an issue, promptly address any leaks or sources of moisture, use dehumidifiers in damp areas, and clean moldy surfaces with appropriate cleaning solutions.
Alongside environmental control, adhering to your prescribed medications is paramount. This includes taking your controller medications regularly, even when you are feeling well. These medications work to reduce inflammation in your airways over time and are crucial for preventing asthma flare-ups. If your allergist has prescribed medications like antihistamines or nasal sprays to manage your allergic reactions, use them as directed, especially during allergy season, as effectively treating your allergies can often lead to better asthma control.
Your Allergist: A Key Partner in Asthma Control
Don’t navigate allergic asthma alone. An allergist is a specialist who can provide accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support to help you achieve optimal asthma control and live the life you want. They can also discuss advanced treatment options like immunotherapy (allergy shots or tablets), which can gradually desensitize your immune system to specific allergens that trigger your asthma.
Source: American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, April 14, 2025