9 Interesting Allergy and Asthma Facts
by The HealthCentral Editorial Team
It's been around for a long time
Asthma was first recognized and named by Hippocrates, circa 450 BC.
Early cures weren't very helpful
In the mid 20th century, some psychologists viewed wheezing as “the suppressed cry of the child for its mother,” and they treated asthma with talk therapy.
They're often linked
About 70 percent of asthmatics also have allergies.
It's often debilitating
Asthma accounts for about 10.1 million missed work days for adults annually.
Allergens are all around
Fifty percent of homes have at least six detectable allergens present.
We're looking for relief
About 40,000 people have sinus surgery every year in an effort to relieve their chronic congestion.
It can be managed
The life expectancy for mild asthmatics is the same as for those who do not have asthma, which is about 80 years.
Cats rule
Cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies.
It's hard to hide
One ragweed plant can produce one billion grains of pollen.
