Did you know that more than 100 million people in the United States are affected by asthma or allergies? This is a staggering number, and it's why the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) has designated May as "National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month" Since 1984. This is a crucial time to raise awareness and understanding about these conditions. 

Nearly 26 million people (about the population of Texas) in the U.S. have asthma (20.7 million adults and 4.8 million children). 

About 20 million people (about the population of New York) in the U.S. have food allergies (16.0 million adults and 4.3 million children). 

About 80 million people (about twice the population of California) in the U.S. have rhinitis due to nasal allergies, also called "hay fever" (66.4 million adults and 13.9 million children (about twice the population of Arizona) (May Is Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month | AAFA.org. 

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Many people live with the fact that there is no cure for asthma or allergies, but there are things one can do to make life more comfortable. 

Know your asthma triggers so you can avoid them, and if you are on medications to control attacks, take them consistently. 

Be mindful of your food allergies, and always remember that shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness after ingesting food may be the warning signs of an anaphylactic shock medical emergency. 

Read labels when you buy new foods to ensure that they contain no ingredients that may trigger an allergic reaction. 

Do not be embarrassed about asking what is in the food you want to order when dining out. 

While there may not be a cure for allergies or asthma, there is a path to better health through caution and control. It's essential to exercise both and to follow the treatment plan prescribed by your physician. Your healthcare professional is your partner in managing these conditions, so don't hesitate to seek their guidance.