The month of May holds multiple medical awarenesses and one of them relates to asthma and allergy awareness. 

Dallas County Health Department Public Information Officer Ann Cochran says both asthma and allergies often include symptoms that impact breathing. Cochran says when it comes to asthma there are three important things to know. 

“First, it’s a serious lung disease. Second, asthma doesn’t go away and it can’t be cured and last asthma can be managed. So, just the same as chronic diseases such as diabetes or high blood pressure asthma can be treated and controlled. The key is consistently following the advice of your doctor.”

Cochran tells Raccoon Valley Radio when it comes to allergies during this time of the year pollen counts continue to climb during the late spring and early summer. Cochran says it’s a good idea to get tested for allergies.

“It is very advisable for you to be tested for allergies if you suspect you have hay fever or some kind of allergies. It’s a good idea to get tested, then you will be aware of exactly what it is you are allergic to and then therefore you can avoid those things that trigger your symptoms.”

Cochran says it’s important to know what ailment is bothering you so that you know how to properly have it treated.