Allergy updates

The numbers. Allergies affect more than 50 million Americans and are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the United States.

Asthma connection. “The genetics are pretty complex, but you often find asthma in people who are genetically predisposed to allergic conditions,” says Dr. Wagner.

Rest at risk. Preliminary study results show that 50 percent of people with allergic rhinitis (pollen allergy) also experience some kind of sleep disorder.

Pets might help. Recent studies report that children living with a dog or cat at home are less likely to get asthma. The theory? Exposing children to dust, pet dander, and other allergens helps build up immunities.

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