The Asthma-Allergy Connection

Part article as featured in Mannatech AO News USA February 2003, V3,N4

It's a one-two punch that can put you on the ropes.
"There's no question allergens are the most common asthma triggers," says Stephen Boyd, MD PhD FRSM, Mannatech's Medical Director and Administrator. "As a group, they're the biggest challenge asthma sufferers face."

About 75-80% of all asthma in children and 50% of asthma in adults is caused by allergies. Great! Then allergy shots should take care of it, right? Not exactly. While allergy shots seem to work for seasonal allergies, people with chronic allergies usually don't see a benefit. The shots appear to work best with a defined exposure for a relatively short period of time. In fact, a study published n the British Medical Journal, found that 66% of people who had been hospitalised for asthma attacks tested positive for an allergy to dust mites, cats or dogs. Far fewer people with mild bouts of asthma tested positive for these allergies.

Allergies take more than your breath away.

Everyone knows that allergies can be a real pain, but few know that they may contribute to a variety of chronic respiratory illnesses in addition to asthma. Researchers think that sensitivity to allergens may also work with viral respiratory infections to increase the risk of hospital admission for severe asthma.

Allergic asthma is characterised by airway obstruction. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or rapid breathing, chest tightness, occasional fatigue and slight chest pain. Fortunately, it's usually at least partly reversible with medication.

Mannatech's proprietary products including glyconutrients, redefine wellness and are designed to give you assurance of nutritional health.