Asthma and allergies are complex conditions involving multiple steps and pathways, which are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. The genes involved in these processes are just being identified. Most likely asthma is a result of several genes and their interaction with other genes as well as the environment. Management involves the proper diagnosis, modulating the genetic and environmental factors involved as well as interfering with the activated pathways. Using this approach will lead to a more rational method of managing individuals with allergies and asthma.