The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) is a partner organization in the National Institutes of Health's Breathe Better Network. We work together to raise awareness about asthma and lung health. We help people learn about proven medical guidelines and interventions.

We recently hosted a chat with the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) – which is also a member of the Breathe Better Network - and David Stukus, MD, a member of AAFA’s Medical Scientific Council, to address common misunderstandings about asthma and allergies.

Here are some highlights from the chat:

Q: Why is my doctor recommending a steroid medicine for my asthma instead of albuterol? Aren’t steroids more dangerous?

Inhaled steroids are safe and effective for controlling asthma inflammation. They are one of three types of inhaled asthma medicines. They are safer than oral corticosteroids (such as prednisone).

A1: There are three types of inhaled asthma medicines: https://t.co/xNoa1Gmt69 #AllergyReady
1⃣ Quick-relief medicines work quickly to relieve sudden symptoms. You take them as needed and at the first sign of symptoms. #AllergyReady https://t.co/TpPLwi9CFx pic.twitter.com/kbdSH19z3y

— AAFA National (@AAFANational) May 10, 2023

Inhaled steroids are much safer than oral steroids for treating #asthma but still need to be used in proper doses to limit side effects.

I coauthored a review on this & other common #allergy medications for @JACIInPractice
Check it out: https://t.co/elQTVz8e5i#AllergyReady https://t.co/JZTitzo2By pic.twitter.com/m0MWC1jTty

— Dr. Dave Stukus (@AllergyKidsDoc) May 10, 2023

You can find additional information on inhaled corticosteroids in this fact sheet: https://t.co/eiM1uz4njh #AllergyReady #AsthmaAwareness

— Breathe Better (@BreatheBetter) May 11, 2023

Q: Why do I need a valved holding chamber? Aren't they only for kids?

Everyone who uses a metered dose inhaler should use a valved holding chamber. It creates space for the liquid medicine to turn into an aerosol when it comes out of the inhaler. This helps more medicine get into your lungs where it belongs.

A2: Using a valved holding chamber or spacer with MDI inhalers can improve how much medicine gets into your lungs. The chamber attaches to an MDI and turns the medicine into smaller particles that are easier to inhale. https://t.co/zdUMQ6l4qA #AllergyReady https://t.co/rjuCnrM01c pic.twitter.com/WgwsluDkcJ

— AAFA National (@AAFANational) May 10, 2023

Q: Why is BENADRYL® not the best option to treat seasonal allergies?

Diphenhydramine (BENADRYL®) is not recommended for treating allergies because of its short-term action to manage symptoms and several known negative side effects. It can cause drowsiness, sedation, and fatigue. It can impair alertness, concentration, multitasking, and memory. This antihistamine can impair important functions like learning in children and operating machinery and cars in adults. New antihistamines, such as cetirizine (ZYRTEC®) and loratadine (Claritin®), work longer and are safer.

1st generation antihistamines are outdated, associated with many side effects and not nearly as effective as 2nd generation (zyrtec, claritin, allegra).

Don't take my word for it. GREAT information here: https://t.co/sKUWipqqAu#AllergyReady https://t.co/VqH1NIaZ0a

— Dr. Dave Stukus (@AllergyKidsDoc) May 10, 2023

A3 We created a reference guide of medications that are used to treat allergies & asthma. All are prescription meds. This guide includes: FDA approved use for the medication, dosing, generic and brand names and links to product websites. #AllergyReadyhttps://t.co/WcGSZW6vCw

— AAAAI (@AAAAI_org) May 10, 2023

Q: I’ve heard about “natural” ways to treat my allergies. Do any of these work?

Reducing your exposure to allergens in your home can help improve allergy symptoms. You can also use a nasal rinse and artificial tears (eye drops) to help manage symptoms. But honey won’t help.

My favorite natural treatment: Clarify exactly what is causing allergies and adopt specific avoidance measures to reduce exposure (if/when possible)
Also:
Nasal saline/irrigation is AMAZING!
Artificial tears for eyes

🍯Commonly marketed but not actually helpful#AllergyReady https://t.co/dB6S4SjeQU

— Dr. Dave Stukus (@AllergyKidsDoc) May 10, 2023

A4: Reduce exposure to allergens to improve allergy symptoms.
✅ Check pollen count
✅ Close windows during peak pollen
✅ Remove shoes to enter home
✅ Wipe down pets
✅ Don't dry laundry outdoors
✅ Cover hair, nose, mouth, eyes when outside
✅ Shower before bed#AllergyReady https://t.co/kvidVLjEWm pic.twitter.com/dac1VbtyNu

— AAFA National (@AAFANational) May 10, 2023

Q: What’s the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance?

Food allergies are caused by reaction of your immune system. Food intolerances are when your digestive system (gut) has a hard time digesting food.

A6: There are many misconceptions about food allergies, intolerances, and sensitivities. @AllergyKidsDoc talks about the differences and getting the right diagnosis. Learn more: https://t.co/nAvMunTtfZ @AllergyKidsDoc #AllergyReadyhttps://t.co/ieGuJXNAQW https://t.co/c5cMFqZAr7

— KidsWithFoodAllergies (@kfatweets) May 10, 2023

Watch on YouTube

Check out #AllergyReady on Twitter to read the rest of the chat!