During the Christmas holiday season the air is filled with joy and excitement. However, for those with asthma, the holiday season can also bring challenges, with triggers such as cold weather, indoor allergens, and stress potentially impacting respiratory health. Winter Wonderland Precautions The winter chill can be a double-edged sword for individuals with asthma. Cold air has the potential to trigger bronchoconstriction and worsen asthma symptoms. To combat this, consider the following precautions: Dress in Layers: Bundle up in warm layers to protect yourself from the cold. A scarf can also be used to cover your nose and mouth, helping to humidify the air before it reaches your lungs. Stay Indoors During Extreme Cold: If temperatures drop significantly, it's wise to limit outdoor activities and stay indoors where the air is warmer. Use a Rescue Inhaler: Keep your rescue inhaler on hand, especially when venturing outdoors. Quick relief can be crucial in case of an unexpected asthma attack. Deck the Halls with Allergen-Free Decor Christmas decorations, while festive and beautiful, can harbor dust and allergens that may trigger asthma symptoms. Here's how to keep your holiday decor asthma-friendly: Opt for Hypoallergenic Decorations: Choose decorations made from materials that are less likely to collect dust, such as plastic or metal. Regular Cleaning: Dust and allergens can accumulate on decorations during storage. Before putting up your decorations, give them a good clean to ensure a healthy indoor environment. Consider Allergen-Free Trees: For those with allergies, artificial Christmas trees may be a better option than real ones, which can harbor mold and pollen. Mindful Hosting and Celebrations Hosting or attending holiday gatherings requires a bit of extra planning for individuals with asthma. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration: Choose Asthma-Friendly Foods: Opt for dishes that are less likely to trigger asthma symptoms. Avoid strong odors and be mindful of potential food allergens. Designate Smoke-Free Zones: If you or your guests smoke, create designated outdoor smoking areas to minimize exposure to secondhand smoke. Manage Stress: The holiday season can be stressful, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Practice...

October is Eczema Awareness Month! Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It's characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed skin patches that can be both physically and emotionally distressing. While eczema is common, it can be a source of frustration and discomfort for those who live with it. Common triggers include allergens like food, pet dander, or dust mites. Even soaps, detergents, lotions, and fragrances can trigger symptoms. More than 31 million people in the U.S. have eczema and each person has a story to tell. Visit the Eczema Awareness Month website to share stories and join live events this month. Our allergists are specially trained to help improve and relieve your eczema symptoms. First, we’ll complete an allergy evaluation to determine the potential causes of your condition. Then, we’ll create a treatment plan specific for you that will relieve the itchiness and pain caused by eczema so that you can manage your eczema and not let it manage you. Learn more and start finding relief today.  

October 1-7 is Latex Allergy Awareness Week aiming to raise understanding about the condition. It  can cause a range of allergic reactions in individuals exposed to latex-containing products. Latex Allergy can be a serious and potentially life-threatening concern occuring when the immune system mistakenly identifies latex proteins as harmful invaders, leading to an immune response. This response releases chemicals such as histamine, triggering allergic symptoms. Latex allergy was unusual until the late 1980s when more healthcare workers began using powdered latex gloves to control infections. In the 1990s, manufacturers found ways to make gloves with synthetic latex and/or powder-free, so the number of new cases has decreased. 1 COMMON SYMPTOMS Latex allergy can manifest in various ways, and the severity of symptoms can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include: Skin reactions: Itchy, red, and swollen skin, often referred to as contact dermatitis, can occur when latex comes into direct contact with the skin. Respiratory symptoms: Inhaling latex particles or airborne allergens can lead to symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Eye irritation: Contact with latex can cause red, itchy, and watery eyes, resembling allergic conjunctivitis. Anaphylaxis: In severe cases, a latex allergy can trigger a life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, drop in blood pressure, swelling of the throat and tongue, and loss of consciousness. Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention. MANAGING LATEX ALLERGY Avoidance: The most effective way to manage latex allergy is to avoid latex-containing products. This includes latex gloves, condoms, balloons, and certain medical devices. Choose latex-free alternatives whenever possible. Allergen labeling: Be vigilant about reading labels on products to identify any latex content. Look for "latex-free" or "non-latex" labeling. Carry an epinephrine auto-injector: If you have a severe latex allergy, your doctor may prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) for emergency use in case of anaphylaxis. Our board-certified allergists, experienced PAs and friendly office staff are here to answer your questions and help find relief. Get started today!   References 1. Latex Allergy https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/allergies/latex-allergy

September 28 is the date Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin in 1928. Significantly it was designated National Penicilin Allergy Day to celebrate raising awareness and focusing on the importance of knowing a patient’s true allergy history while offering care and resources. Unverified penicillin allergy is being increasingly recognized as a public health concern 1, and studies have found that an estimated 10% of patients self-report as being penicillin allergic, but only <1% are actually allergic.2 LEARN MORE AT OUR WEBSITE ABOUT PENICILLIN ALLERGY FAQs About Penicillin Allergy Are You Allergic To Penicillin? Perhaps Not! Can I Outgrow Penicillin Allergy?  What Is Penicillin Allergy Testing?   VISIT THE AAAAI PENICILLIN ALLERGY CENTER education.aaaai.org/penicillin-allergy-center   References 1. Macy, Eric. Penicillin Allergy: Optimizing Diagnostic Protocols, Public Health Implications, and Future Research Needs. Current Opinion in Allergy and Clinical Immunology: August 2015 - Volume 15 - Issue 4 - p 308–313 2. Is it really a penicillin allergy? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/community/for-hcp/Penicillin-Allergy.html. Updated October 31, 2017. Accessed September 4, 2019.

The Atopic Eczema Community joins together on September 14, 2023 to raise awareness. Atopic eczema is one of the most prevalent skin diseases in the world. World Atopic Eczema Day was launched in 2018 to raise awareness about the disease globally and across Europe through an initiative coordinated by the European Federation of Allergy and Airways Diseases Patients’ Associations (EFA) and the International Alliance of Dermatology Patient Organizations (GlobalSkin). Read more at the EFA website. Our allergists are specially trained to help improve and relieve your eczema symptoms. First, we’ll complete an allergy evaluation to determine the potential causes of your condition. Then, we’ll create a treatment plan specific for you that will relieve the itchiness and pain caused by eczema so that you can manage your eczema and not let it manage you. Learn more. Our board-certified allergists, experienced PAs and friendly office staff are here to answer your questions and help find relief. Get started today!

With a strong commitment to a gluten-free diet, education, and support, individuals with celiac disease can lead healthy, symptom-free lives. Let's explore what celiac disease is, the importance of a gluten-free diet, and practical tips for managing this condition effectively. Celiac disease is a an immune-mediated digestive condition. Individuals with Celiac disease experience an immune reaction when eating gluten containing products such as wheat, barley, rye and sometimes oats. Gluten can also be found in medicines, vitamins and lip balms. (AAAAI.org) When individuals with celiac disease consume gluten, their immune system responds by attacking the lining of the small intestine. This immune response damages the villi, tiny finger-like structures in the small intestine responsible for absorbing nutrients from food. Common symptoms of celiac disease include digestive issues (diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and gas), fatigue and anemia. There is no cure for Celiac disease however you can manage your symptoms by incorporating a gluten-free diet into your lifestyle. The Celiac Disease Foundation suggests the following naturally gluten-free food groups for creating a gluten-free diet: Fruits Vegetables Meat and poultry Fish and seafood Dairy Beans, legumes, and nuts Read more at their website.  Transitioning to a gluten-free lifestyle can be challenging, but with time and effort, it becomes second nature. We offer these practical tips for managing celiac disease with a gluten-free diet: Educate Yourself: Learn about sources of gluten and how to read food labels carefully. Look for gluten-free certification when available. Stock Your Kitchen: Replace gluten-containing items with gluten-free alternatives. Stock up on gluten-free flours, pasta, bread, and other staples. Cook at Home: Preparing your meals at home gives you better control over your diet. Explore gluten-free recipes and cooking techniques. Communicate Clearly: When dining out, communicate your dietary restrictions to restaurant staff. Ask about gluten-free menu options and how they prevent cross-contamination. Be Prepared: Carry gluten-free snacks and emergency supplies when you're on the go to avoid accidental gluten exposure. Support Groups: Join local or online celiac support groups to connect with others who share similar experiences and gain valuable insights. Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular check-ups with a...

POLLEN COUNT UPDATE: There are MODERATE concentration of Trees (Elm) and Weeds (Ragweed, Goosefoot, Lamb's Quarters, Pigweed, Amaranth, Saltbush, Russian Thistle). LOW concentrations of Grass and Mold.

Attention athletes and sports fans! Fall school sports are returning. We have tips to help you make the most of this season while keeping allergy and asthma symptoms at bay. 1️⃣ Plan Ahead: Before hitting the court or field, check your local pollen counts. Time your activities to avoid high pollen counts, typically early morning or late afternoon. Get the latest pollen counts at our website. 2️⃣ Medication Matters: Make sure your inhaler or allergy medication is always within reach. Having a game plan for emergencies lets you focus on the game, not your symptoms. 3️⃣ Stay Hydrated: Heat can trigger asthma symptoms. Keep sipping water throughout your games to keep your airways hydrated. 4️⃣ Warm-Up Wisely: A good warm-up routine not only enhances your performance but can also help prevent asthma symptoms during physical activities. 5️⃣ Breathing Techniques: Practice deep breathing techniques to strengthen your lungs and enhance your lung capacity. This can be a game-changer in managing asthma symptoms. 6️⃣ Team Communication: If you're playing with friends, let them know about your allergies or asthma. They can be your allies in case of emergencies. 7️⃣ Cool-Down Comfort: After the game, take time to cool down and let your body gradually adjust. This can help prevent sudden asthma flare-ups. With proper planning and awareness, returning to school sports can be an exciting and enriching journey for everyone, regardless of their allergies and asthma. Our board-certified allergists, experienced PAs and friendly office staff are here to answer questions and help be prepared. Contact us today!

As the new school year draws closer, it's a time of excitement and anticipation for many students. Being moms and caring for our own families has given us a deeper understanding of how to care for you and your family. We understand your concerns returning to school with allergies. Whether they're triggered by pollen, dust, or other factors, allergies can make the school environment challenging to navigate. Fear not! We offer tips and precautions so that going back to school with allergies can be a safe and enriching experience. 1. Consult with a Healthcare Professional: Schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified allergists or friendly physician assistants to discuss your allergies. We can provide accurate diagnoses, allergy testing, and guidance on managing your allergies effectively. 2. Create an Allergy Action Plan: We will help you develop an allergy action plan. This document outlines specific steps to take in case of an allergic reaction and should be shared with teachers, school nurses, and other relevant school staff. 3. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about your allergies, their triggers, and the symptoms of a reaction. Share this information with your teachers, classmates, friends, and school personnel to foster a supportive and informed community. 4. Communicate with the School: Notify the school about your allergies and provide them with any necessary medical documentation. This enables the school to take appropriate precautions and make accommodations. 5. Collaborate with the School Nurse: Establish a relationship with the school nurse, who can provide immediate medical assistance if needed. Ensure they are aware of your allergies and emergency procedures. 6. Allergy-Friendly Lunches and Snacks: If you have food allergies, consider bringing your own lunches and snacks to avoid accidental exposure to allergens. Make sure to label your food clearly and inform your lunchtime supervisors about your dietary restrictions. Read more at our blog post Navigating Back To School With Food Allergies. Returning to school with allergies shouldn't prevent anyone from enjoying a fulfilling educational experience. With proper planning and awareness, going back to school can be an exciting and enriching journey for everyone, regardless of...

As the back-to-school season approaches, it brings with it a mix of excitement and challenges for students, parents, and educators alike. For students with asthma, this time of year can be particularly daunting. However, with proper planning, education, and support, going back to school with asthma can be a smooth and successful experience. Here are some tips and strategies to help students with asthma and their families prepare for a safe and enjoyable school year. 1. Consultation with Healthcare Professionals Before the school year begins, it's crucial to schedule a comprehensive asthma management review with your healthcare provider. Discuss your child's current asthma action plan, medications, and any potential modifications needed for the school routine. Make sure that all necessary prescriptions are up to date and filled. CONTACT US today to schedule an appointment. 2. Informing School Staff Effective communication is key to ensuring your child's safety at school. Notify the school's administration, teachers, and school nurse about your child's asthma condition. Provide them with a copy of the asthma action plan and emergency contact information. Educate them about your child's triggers, symptoms, and proper use of inhalers or other medications. 3. Develop an Asthma Action Plan An asthma action plan is a personalized document that outlines steps to manage your child's asthma symptoms. Work with your healthcare provider to create a detailed plan that includes information on daily medications, symptoms recognition, peak flow monitoring, and what to do in case of an asthma attack. Share a copy of this plan with the school and ensure that everyone involved understands its contents. CONTACT US today to get started. 4. Medication Management Discuss with the school nurse or designated personnel the procedures for administering medication during school hours. Ensure that your child's quick-relief inhaler is easily accessible and that they are allowed to carry it with them if age-appropriate and permitted by the school policy. 5. Allergen and Trigger Awareness Work together with the school to minimize exposure to potential asthma triggers. Discuss any special accommodations needed for physical education or outdoor activities. 6. Physical Education and Extracurricular Activities Physical...