If you have a runny nose, coughing, or sneezing at this time of year, you may be wondering if you have an allergy or a cold given that allergy and cold symptoms are very similar. A good rule of thumb is if your cold-like symptoms last longer than one or two weeks, or if you have frequent colds, you may want to consult your doctor to discuss being tested for allergies.

Allergies are very common, affecting an estimated 50 million Americans (one in every six people in the United States). A multitude of allergens may trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive people. Exposure to allergens can occur through the air, by touch, or by ingestion. Common allergens include indoor and outdoor airborne particles, animals, foods, drugs, and chemicals, including:

• animal dander 
• dust mites
• mold spores
• bee venom
• latex
• tree, grass, and weed pollen
• medicines, such as penicillin, sulfa drugs, local anesthetics
• foods, such as peanuts, milk, eggs, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy, and wheat

As part of National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, Healia’s President and Founder, Tom Eng, will talk about allergies as a guest on KOMO TV First News at 4:00 PM (PST), Wednesday, May 14, 2008.