Tag Archives: allergy management

Parenting in the Time of COVID-19: How to Explain the Impact of the Global Pandemic to Children

Contrary to popular belief, children also get stressed due to certain situations. Such a feeling of stress can affect their immune systems and make them more susceptible to health issues. More so, those with medical conditions like allergies and asthma should have twice the protection, especially during this COVID-19 pandemic.

An allergist doctor may not be available for face-to-face visitations in an allergy clinic. However, there are still ways that you can contact an allergist in case of emergencies.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, it is natural for adults especially parents to be wary of the current situation. But it is also important that children, even as young as toddlers, understand what the world is going through now.

COVID-19’s potential impact on children

This pandemic has caused serious fear mostly for adults. For one thing, parents are especially worried about how they can protect their children against the disease. However, young children can be smarter than we think when it comes to this kind of issue.

Most children thrive on routine. But because of the virus, they are not able to play outdoors. Parents are also mostly having second thoughts of letting their kids play with their neighbors. Basically, the virus has disrupted children’s daily routines. This can affect their mood and cause tantrums and unpleasant behavior.

Meanwhile, parents may have second thoughts of telling their small children what is going on. There is this notion that young children may not be able to understand what is going on around them. However, it is possible for them to understand the current situation. How?

Talking to your children about the ongoing pandemic

First of all, make sure to choose the right timing to discuss this concern with your child. You also need to understand COVID-19 and its impact on our daily lives. You can find more information from reliable sources including the World Health Organization and the US Centers for Disease Control.

More or less, your child is already somehow aware of what is happening right now. It’s just a matter of explaining why this is happening in the first place. More importantly, they should know what they can do to protect themselves against the virus. It is also better to consult an allergist specialist to protect you and your children if you have a history of asthma and allergies.

Points to ponder when discussing COVID-19 with your child

There are some important things that you need to consider when discussing COVID-19 with your child. These include:

Explain what really it is.

Children should understand what COVID-19 is, how it affects anyone who gets it, and how to keep themselves safe from the virus. Those with asthma and allergies should also be extra cautious at this time. Those who have such conditions are more prone to getting the virus. You can consult an allergy doctor to help manage your child’s asthma or allergies.

Get straight to the point.

Children deserve straightforward answers to their questions. Let them ask questions, and answer as truthfully as possible. Too much information can overwhelm them and cause anxiety and stress. As much as possible, avoid sugarcoating words when explaining things to them. They need to know what “virus”, “germs”, and even COVID-19 are.

Teach them to be clean and protected against the virus.

Aside from knowing about the virus, they should also learn how they can keep themselves safe. This includes teaching them the basics like keeping clean and practicing safe distancing. Children should also be taught proper manners when coughing and sneezing.

Helping your child cope up with the current situation

Parents have the major responsibility of shielding their children from the pandemic. More so, if they have allergy history. In case of an attack, you should find an allergy doctor the soonest.

Other tips that you can do to help your children understand the impact of COVID-19 include the following:

Create new routines that will benefit your child. Say, schedule a time for doing worksheets, mealtime, and bedtime. It will help the child back on track on their previous routines that are disrupted due to the virus.
Do not blame other races or people for the virus. No one wanted this to happen. Everyone is affected, even the most well-off people out there.
Try limiting access to news and social media as it can also lead to anxiety due to the constant COVID-19-related reports.
Keep calm. Bond with your child more especially during this pandemic. Keep yourself and your family strong and healthy. You can seek help from an allergy specialist in Manassas VA online in case of asthma or allergy emergencies.

The Truth About The Second Wave of COVID-19 and How to Protect Yourself From It

COVID-19 has dominated this year, so far. It was first discovered in Wuhan, China, with a few cases reported during the last few weeks of December 2019. The next thing we knew, this virus, which later officially called COVID-19, spread like wildfire in many parts of the world.

So far, there have been more than 4.6 million cases around the world. Out of that figure, around 2.5 million are still infected, and more than 1.7 million already dead. Those who have immunocompromised health should be extra careful especially when going outside.

The same goes for the history of asthma and allergies – make sure to consult an asthma doctor if you experience symptoms. Also, make sure to follow asthma treatments as prescribed by your allergist doctor.

The dreaded “second wave”

Several countries around the world, including the US, are slowly easing restrictions of the lockdowns. Chinese authorities have also announced measures that aim to prevent the dreaded second wave of COVID-19. This includes complying with the “new normal” such as wearing face masks and physical distancing.

This is exactly what health experts are worried about: the second wave of the dreaded virus. And it seems to be happening now in some countries. In China, for example, there were about 17 new cases reported in Mainland China according to a May 11 report.

In South Korea, on the other hand, there were 35 new cases reported since it lifted its lockdown. Apparently, the majority of these cases came from those who went out clubbing over the weekend. As a result, more than 2,000 nightspots have to close down again.

This is one of the most difficult dilemmas that the world has to face right now. On the one hand, countries are doing their best to contain the virus and prevent its further spread by implementing strict lockdowns. However, the world cannot afford prolonged lockdowns as it can affect the economy.

Even with strict measures, no one knows how effective it will be. There are even those so-called “silent carriers” who do not exhibit symptoms unless they take the COVID-19 test. Also, just because a country does not have new cases for several days or weeks doesn’t mean they are exempted from the so-called “second wave”.

Will it be worse?

It will depend on several factors. One of the most important of these is how people comply with the rules. This includes wearing face masks, physical distancing, and observing proper hygiene. Aggressive mass testing will also play an important role in the outcome of the second wave if ever it does happen.

Basically, there can be less impact of the second wave of the pandemic if there will be stricter measures implemented. This also applies to those with asthma and other chronic conditions. Make sure to consult an allergy doctor if you experience symptoms due to asthma or allergies.

It is also possible that there will be lockdowns again. You cannot visit an allergy clinic or get simple checkups unless it’s already urgent. As mentioned, that possibility will depend on how people and the government comply with the rules. Unless there is already a vaccine, we cannot be too complacent.

How to prevent the spread

First of all, you need to take care of yourself. If you have asthma or allergy history, you should consult an allergist doctor for proper management and treatment. Even if many countries are imposing lockdowns, it won’t guarantee that COVID-19 will be gone for good.

This is why people also have a vital role in containing the virus. It would take quite a while before we are able to travel elsewhere, attend events, and hug friends and loved ones. In the meantime, here are tips you can do to avoid the spread of the virus.

Avoid throwing face masks anywhere.

You can buy reusable masks that you can wash and wear as needed. Leave surgical masks to our brave frontliners.

Avoid going to the gym and other fitness centers.

It is important to stay fit and healthy during the pandemic. But it is not the best time to go to gyms now. Instead, you can do home workouts to maintain your health while on quarantine.

Maintain proper hygiene.

You should practice proper hygiene more than ever. If there is no access to running water and soap, use alcohol or hand sanitizer, and have access to it all the time.

Keeping vigilant in the middle of the pandemic

We are far from over from the wrath of the ongoing pandemic. In the meantime, we need to be vigilant and careful with our every move. More so, if you have asthma or immunocompromised health. Consult an allergist in Germantown MD for tips on protecting yourself from the effect of COVID-19.

Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite: Protect Yourself From These Critters

Since we are on quarantine due to COVID-19, we have more time to spend lying down on our beds. Now is also the time to appreciate that we have a home to shelter us from the virus. We have to be thankful that we have a nice bed to sleep on at night despite the uncertainty this virus is causing is right now.

This is also the time to keep yourself healthy amidst the health crisis. Even at home, you can do some home workouts and eat freshly-prepared meals.

It is also better you should learn how to deal with your allergies in case you have one. In case you need consultations, you can contact an allergist doctor online to help manage your symptoms while on quarantine.

What’s bugging you?

Bedtime is supposedly the time everyone looks forward to. After all, our bed is our safe haven from all the stress and uncertainty of our lives. It is supposed the bed that will bring us to dreamland and a good night’s sleep. Unfortunately, it’s not always the case.

Apparently, there is this tiny enemy that plagues a lot of people, especially during bedtime. These tiny pests, called bed bugs, commonly exist in mattresses and upholstered furniture. Actually, they can be seen by the naked eye but can still pester your precious bedtime, nonetheless.

For starters, bed bugs are small insects that bite exposed human and animal skin and feed on their blood. Bed bugs do not cause the outbreak of diseases. However, it can also cause other health concerns and even affect your budget.

On the one hand, bed bugs can cause rashes and allergic reactions. If you experience any allergic reactions due to bed bug bites, you should consult an allergist specialist. Some may experience mild reactions, but it can be life-threatening in other cases.

Symptoms and risks

Bed bugs often exist in bed cracks and crevices, headboards, bed frames, or box springs. These critters can also be found under carpeting, electrical outlets, light switch plates, or peeling paint or wallpaper.

The risks of getting bitten by bed bugs are higher when you spend time in homeless shelters, hospitals, or hotels. That said, the risk of allergic reactions is high as well especially if you are allergic to bed bugs.

If you experience the following, you might as well consult an allergist doctor immediately. Otherwise, it might lead to life-threatening consequences if left untreated. Common signs of bed bug bites include:

Itchiness
Red spots that are aligned or in clusters
Bite marks on the arms, legs, face, or neck
Allergic reactions such as hives or blisters

If you experience the latter, watch out for more severe reactions like difficulty in breathing or swelling. It can also cause anaphylactic shock in the worst cases. If so, consult an allergy specialist or visit an allergy clinic if possible at this time.

Preventing bed bug bites and getting rid of the bugs

Unfortunately, most allergic reactions due to bed bug bites may be mistaken as mosquito or flea bites. That is why you need to take note of the common symptoms as mentioned above.

One way to treat bed bug bites is by using antihistamines. Corticosteroid creams can also help alleviate the itching due to bed bug bites. Before the symptoms get worst, it is best to talk to an allergy specialist doctor.

Other tips to minimize the impact of bed bug infestation include the following.

Do not scratch the bitten area or it may lead to bleeding or infection.
Check your bed including the mattress and bed frame for any presence of bed bugs.
If possible, hire a professional pest control company that will help treat bed bugs.
Do not use the mattress or furniture with a bed bug infestation. If possible, remove and replace it with a fresher one.

Conclusion

Bed bugs can be annoying and can affect your good night’s sleep. It will leave you scratching and even cause infections. In the worst cases, it can lead to allergic reactions that can be life-threatening if left untreated.

If you got bitten by a bed bug, watch for any signs of the abovementioned symptoms. Better yet, let your allergist in Manassas know of your situation. At the end of the day, we all deserve a good and quality sleep every night, especially during this quarantine period.

Healing in the Time of COVID-19: How the Pandemic Can Help Improve the Global Healthcare System

There is no doubt of the extent of COVID-19’s impact on our daily lives. For one, we were forced to stay at home and encouraged to practice social distancing. Those with compromised immune systems should take extra caution to avoid contracting the disease.

Asthmatics should also take care of their health more than ever. You can consult an asthma doctor to help manage your condition. You might also have to keep asthma treatments in stock especially at this time of COVID-19. In extreme cases, you may have to visit an allergy clinic to prevent any symptoms from worsening.

The impact of COVID-19 on our global healthcare system

The ongoing pandemic has indeed wreaked havoc to our usual lives. Countries are focused on flattening the curve, but at the expense of millions of businesses and people’s normal routines. So far, there are already more than a million total COVID-19 cases all over the world – and still counting.

A lot of businesses have no choice but to close either for time indefinite or for good. Even first-world countries like the US and Italy got overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients flocking their hospitals. These countries, which supposed to have world-class healthcare systems, have already thousands of deaths and seem to continue to increase.

But what about other countries that do not have the same quality of healthcare as the US and Italy? We can just imagine how overwhelming it could be. The lack of healthcare equipment and facilities is another thing. Nevertheless, one thing is for sure: no country is prepared for this global pandemic.

How COVID-19 can help improve our healthcare system

Despite all the chaos that is happening right now, there are some things that we can learn from it. First of all, we learned how to wash our hands. It seems simple, but so often we forget before this pandemic started.

We also learned to take care of our health more. As mentioned, those with compromised immune systems such as asthmatics should take extra care of their health. COVID-19 can make your asthma symptoms worse that can be potentially life-threatening. An allergist specialist can also help provide treatments in case your asthma symptoms flares up.

We also realize that there is no social status when it comes to this virus. Even those in higher government positions are not susceptible to this disease. Businesses, whether start-ups and multi-billion-dollar companies, are all affected with the impact of COVID-19.

We need our front liners more than ever: healthcare personnel, store cashier, pharmacists, and everyone else who serves people in these critical times. National governments have already realized how important they are during this ongoing pandemic. For example, the US government provided paid sick leaves for these front liners.

Online consultations are also readily available for those who need advice on their medical concerns. For example, you can contact an allergy doctor in case of allergy or asthma attacks. Electronic prescriptions are also given in case you need to buy medicines.

How the healthcare system can become more efficient

About 10 percent of health workers in many countries contracted the virus. Unfortunately, a lot of our health workers around the world already succumbed to the disease.

This means critical times especially that we need them more than ever to help treat COVID-19 patients. If this continues, our healthcare system will be greatly affected, cases will soar, and the situation can last until next year or so.

That is why we need not only protect ourselves but especially our front liners, including health workers. For one, our health workers need ample supply of personal protective equipment (PPEs).

Aside from that, health workers should have shifting periods so they can rest and take care of patients more efficiently. There should also be proper training for health workers in recognizing respiratory illnesses and especially COVID-19. There should also be a strong hospital surveillance system to help prevent the further spread of the virus.

Conclusion

We will never know when this pandemic will exactly end. In the meantime, we need to protect ourselves from contracting the disease. Wash hands frequently, stay at home and pray for our front liners. Utilize the use of technology to stay connected and get the help you need.

Save important contacts such as an allergy specialist doctor if you have asthma or allergies. An allergy physician in Manassas VA can help provide medication for your condition.

Living with Someone with Asthma? Here are Some Things You Need to Consider

As of date, there are already more than half a million COVID-19 cases around the world. Unfortunately, no one is exempted from this disease even if you think you are generally healthy. However, there are some people who are more at risk in COVID-19. These include the elderly, weak immune system, and with asthma.

If you or someone you know suffer from asthma, you should visit an asthma doctor. An allergist should help you manage asthma symptoms. More so, asthmatics should be extra cautious at this time. Stay at home, wash your hands, and keep yourself healthy all the time.

Living with asthma

Asthma can affect the quality of one’s life. For starters, asthma affects the airways and can be triggered by several factors. For example, it can be due to allergy to pollen, certain foods, or extreme emotions. Some may experience mild symptoms, while others can be life-threatening.

To manage your condition, you need to identify the symptoms. Among common symptoms include:

Breathing difficulties
Coughing and wheezing
Tightening of chest

If you experience the abovementioned symptoms, make sure to go to an allergy clinic immediately. Prevention is still better than cure especially with the ongoing threat of COVID-19. Have yourself tested if you experience symptoms associated with COVID-19 to avoid contamination.

Things not to say to someone with asthma

Living with asthma can be challenging. For one, you should take your prescribed asthma treatments to help manage your condition. However, living with someone with asthma is another story. You are healthy, but someone you live with isn’t.

For one thing, you can offer support to your asthmatic friend and loved one. If needed, make sure to help your friend or loved one find an allergy doctor. Allergy testing may be necessary as well to ensure proper treatment for those who suffer from asthma. Aside from that, you should never say or do while you are with someone with asthma.

Never smoke near someone who is asthmatic. More so, secondhand smoking is more dangerous.
Avoid recommending “homemade” or “natural” asthma treatments to someone who is asthmatic. Most of these so-called natural treatments are not really scientifically proven to cure asthma.
Asthma symptoms may also be similar to that of common colds (ex. wheezing, coughing). If these symptoms do not go away despite taking medications, you should visit an allergist doctor immediately.
Inhalers are important to help asthmatics manage their symptoms. However, these are for emergencies only. The best way to manage asthma is to avoid the triggers (ex. smoke, pollen, stress, etc.)
Most people will have asthma for the rest of their lives. That is why you should understand how it feels, especially if a loved one has it.

How to help a loved one with asthma

Most likely, your loved one already knows how to manage his or her asthma symptoms. Going to an allergy specialist is one thing. Understanding what he or she is going through is another. In case an asthma attack happens unexpectedly, here are some things you can do to help.

Calm down, and help them calm down in case an attack happens. Panic attacks can make the situation worse.
Ask them to loosen up their clothing so they can breathe better. Ask them to sit upright to help improve their breathing.
If their situation does not improve even after loosening up their clothes, let them puff on their inhaler. In the worst-case scenario, it may be a good idea to rush the patient to a nearby emergency room.
Avoid taking them outside for some fresh air. Outside air may contain pollen and other allergens that can make their asthma attacks worse.

Alleviating asthma symptoms and protection against COVID-19

Given the ongoing threat that is COVID-19, we should be more cautious with our hygiene. More so, we should protect our loved ones who are asthmatics and others that are at higher risk of contracting this disease.

Protecting yourself and your loved one (especially those with asthma) is as basic as washing hands and distancing oneself when sick. Make sure to get proper treatment and stay at home as much as possible. Visit an allergy specialist doctor in Manassas VA in case asthma symptoms start to become worst.

Let us not only take care of ourselves but also the frontline and health workers. They selflessly take care of us in this critical time.

Here is What You Need to Know about Red Meat Allergy

Millions of people all over the world suffer from allergies. Some have food allergies, while others suffer from allergic reactions due to pollen or pet dander. There are also a lot of people who experience allergic reactions but are clueless about what causes allergies in the first place. If you are one of those who experience allergies, you should visit an allergy clinic immediately.

Speaking of food allergy, it is said to affect both children and adults. Food allergy may vary depending on the specific food allergen. For example, some may be allergic to seafood. Others might experience allergic reactions when they eat dairy or nuts. Another type of food allergy, albeit not as common as the aforementioned food, is red meat.

When eating red meat is a gastronomical nightmare

Being allergic to red meat may not be as common as soy or nut allergies. Like any other types of allergies, there are certain meat proteins that cause adverse reactions. These allergens break down once cooked, and cause those familiar allergic reactions upon consumption.

Allergy to red meat, also known as an alpha-gal syndrome or mammalian meat allergy, has no known cure. On a positive note, such a kind of allergy is less common than other types of food allergies. Red meat allergy symptoms can also be more manageable over time. If you suspect of having the alpha-gal syndrome, you should have allergy testing to confirm your condition.

What causes meat allergies?

Red meat allergies may develop as early as in childhood or in late adulthood. In particular, people with current allergies, specific blood types, or atopic dermatitis are at high risk of having meat allergies. Make sure to consult an allergist if you experience any allergy symptoms due to meat consumption.

Lone star tick bites are also one of the major causes of red meat allergies. Lone star ticks are native to the Central and Southern US. It sucks mammals’ blood, which contains the alpha-gal sugar. Once the tick feeds on humans, it transmits the alpha-gal sugar into the bloodstream and there starts the onslaught of red meat allergic reactions.

Apparently, those with blood types A or O have higher risks of having red meat allergy. One possibility for this is that those with the abovementioned blood types do not have the B antigen which is only present in B and AB blood types. The B antigen can provide people with some sort of internal protection against allergic reactions.

Specifically, the so-called alpha-gal sugar is pinpointed as the main culprit of allergic reactions to red meat. This may not also necessarily mean that only those with blood types A or O may suffer from red meat allergy. Instead, those with existing allergies may worsen the symptoms due to alpha-gal allergies.

Red meat allergies are also different from poultry and dairy allergies. Usually, these can be due to undercooked white meat (chicken and turkey). There are also some who are allergic to eggs but not to chicken. Nevertheless, it is better to consult an allergy specialist doctor for any signs of allergic reactions.

Treating red meat allergies

There are some people who did not have any idea that they have red meat allergies until several years later. That is why you should consult an allergy physician if you experience any signs of allergic reactions when you eat something. You might even notice a pattern that can give a clue of what you are allergic to.

One way is subjecting yourself to allergy testing such as blood tests, elimination diet, or a skin prick test. If there is indeed an allergy to red meat, you need to avoid it at all costs. Whether fresh or processed, you should make sure to check the packaging before buying it. You might also have to consult a dietitian to help you cook up meat alternatives without depriving yourself of protein.

In case you have accidentally eaten red meat, you should counter it with antihistamine, inhaler or nasal spray immediately. But if there are severe or potentially life-threatening reactions, you should visit an allergy clinic the soonest.

Enjoy your food, but keep safe too

If you are allergic to any food, including red meat, don’t risk it. Otherwise, you might end up in a hospital bed due to complications. To make sure, consult an allergy physician in Germantown MD if you experience any signs of allergies.

For Health’s Sake: The Pros and Cons of Taking Glutathione Supplements

There are two types of people: those with fair skin and others with a dark complexion. Ironically, people with fair skin go to tanning salons or go to the beach to get some tan lines. On the other hand, a lot of people with darker skin complexion reach for whitening products. However, make sure to consult an allergist doctor first before using any skincare product.

With so many beauty products available, it can be overwhelming to choose which one will suit you best. Some products might be effective for certain users and yield positive results. However, there are others that might experience adverse effects when using a product. This is one reason why it is a good idea to seek advice from an allergy physician first.

The role of glutathione in our body

There is nothing wrong with dreaming of pinkish, whiter skin. No wonder there are a lot of whitening products available especially in many Asian and other countries. One of the most popular whitening products mostly in Asian countries nowadays is glutathione.

In these countries, glutathione usually comes in capsule, liquid, or via injectables. A lot of skincare products sold in these countries include glutathione in the ingredient list. Better yet, make sure to visit an allergist specialist first before using any whitening products. You might also have to undergo allergy testing to avoid adverse reactions when using any topical products.

Aside from its whitening effect, glutathione also boasts of its antioxidant and immune system strengthening benefits. Our liver naturally produces glutathione and comprises three major amino acids: L-glutamate, glycine, and L-cysteine. However, our glutathione levels decrease due to several factors such as stress, age, and poor eating habits.

The lack of glutathione can lead to health problems like cardiovascular disease or lung and liver issues among a few. According to one study, it can also weaken one’s immune system and even cause premature aging. That is why glutathione supplements can do wonders for your skin and your health in general.

Benefits of glutathione supplements

A 2014 report said that we need to maintain good glutathione levels as it is crucial to our health. The same report said that this natural body component plays an important role in improving our immune system and proper nutrient breakdown. Glutathione is also said to provide protection against several health issues like:

Diabetes
Asthma
Cardiovascular disease
Hepatitis
High cholesterol levels

Aside from that, taking glutathione supplements can reverse the effects of aging. Likewise, it can lessen the risk of memory loss and even cancer. These are some noted health benefits of taking glutathione supplements. But before taking one, make sure to consult an allergist to prevent any adverse effects that might occur.

Are there possible side effects of taking glutathione supplements?

On the one hand, there are already several studies of the positive effects of taking glutathione supplements. However, there are also possible risks of using such. For one, some people experienced bloating and cramping after taking glutathione supplements. In the worst cases, it can cause allergic reactions as well.

It is also important to note that glutathione can also be found in certain foods such as meat, dairy, fruits, and vegetables. As also mentioned earlier, glutathione also comes in different forms including capsules, topical, or intravenous. For one thing, the FDA deems the oral forms as “generally safe”. However, IV glutathione forms may cause adverse effects such as:

Abdominal pain
Kidney or thyroid dysfunction
Skin rashes
Steven-Johnsons syndrome
Infection or other complications due to improper administration of IV glutathione drips

In the name of beauty and health

If you are planning to take glutathione supplements, you should inform an allergist doctor first. Other than that, here are some reminders in taking glutathione supplements or other health supplements in general.

Take caution when taking any supplements especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have existing allergies.
Never let kids especially those aged 5 and below take glutathione supplements. There is no established study yet about small children taking any related supplements.
Make sure that you don’t have liver disease as glutathione supplements can make your health condition worse.

There is nothing wrong with looking good as long as it won’t endanger your health. Make sure to take any health supplements that are FDA-approved. Likewise, you should consult an allergy physician in Germantown MD first before taking any health supplement.

All About Gluten Allergy: Symptoms and Proper Management

Food is life, at least for a lot of people out there. We need to eat so we won’t be grumpy and moody all day. It is also important to eat the right food to nourish our brain and body. However, we should still take note of what we should eat so that we will be healthy all the time.

Unfortunately, a lot of people experience the onset of allergies due to certain food items. Some are allergic to dairy, while others experience allergic reactions to grain and seafood. Food allergies, and other types of allergies for that matter, can cause mild to severe reactions. If you experience any signs of allergic reactions, better go to an allergy specialist doctor immediately.

All about gluten allergy

Gluten allergy or intolerance is a common allergic issue that affects millions of people around the world. As the name suggests, a heightened sensitivity to gluten causes this type of allergy. Gluten is a type of protein that is usually found in grains like barley, rye, and wheat.

Gluten allergies are often confused with celiac disease. The latter is also due to sensitivity to gluten, only worse. Unlike the former, celiac disease is considered an autoimmune condition caused by sensitivity in gluten. In the worst cases, celiac disease can damage an afflicted person’s digestive tract.

Meanwhile, gluten allergies are also mistaken as wheat allergy. The latter can be a potentially life-threatening condition and should be treated by an allergist immediately. Nevertheless, it is best to consult an allergy doctor to help manage your condition.

Common symptoms of gluten intolerance

Whether you have a gluten allergy or similar conditions, these can cause discomfort and affect your digestion. In such cases, you should visit an allergy specialist immediately. He or she will help you confirm whether you have gluten intolerance or other gluten or grain-related allergies.

Whether you have celiac or non-celiac gluten intolerance, it can still affect the quality of your life. Here are signs you need to look out for gluten intolerance. Each of these symptoms may vary but should be managed accordingly.

Bloating

People with gluten intolerance often feel full, gassy, and uncomfortable. In fact, one study revealed that almost 90 percent of people suffering from gluten intolerance experience discomfort due to bloating.

Constipation/diarrhea

We all experience diarrhea and constipation from time to time. But if it happens frequently, you might want to check what you are eating. It may be a major sign of gluten intolerance. In the worst cases, those with celiac disease (a severe type of gluten intolerance) might experience inflammation in the gut lining.

Skin breakouts

Apparently, gluten intolerance can also cause skin issues. For one, gluten intolerance can cause dermatitis herpetiformis. Other common skin problems caused by gluten intolerance may include urticaria, alopecia areata, and psoriasis.

Other signs of gluten intolerance include the following. If you experience the following apart from the abovementioned symptoms, you should go to an allergy clinic immediately:

Sudden weight loss
Muscle and joint pain
Inability to concentrate
Anxiety and depression
Anemia due to lack of iron

Gluten intolerance and other health conditions

Gluten intolerance and celiac disease are two different things. However, these can greatly affect one’s quality of life, as mentioned. Plus, it can lead to health complications if left untreated.

For example, several studies have shown that celiac disease has a strong link with fertility problems. According to said studies, people with celiac disease experience infertility. However, experts cannot pinpoint exactly what causes fertility issues.

People with gluten sensitivity are also at high risk of having ADHD. However, there are also reports saying that there are improvements after removing gluten from their usual diet. It may be because of removing sugary and processed foods, which mostly contain gluten.

Managing gluten intolerance

Nonetheless, there is nothing wrong with improving your diet if you have gluten sensitivity. You can also consult an allergy physician for other ways of managing your gluten sensitivity. For one, you should avoid any food with rye, wheat, barley, and other derivatives.

It is also better to remove common food and beverages that contain gluten such as pasta, baked goods, beer, malt, and some sauces. You can eliminate those foods completely or lessen their consumption slowly and surely. These kinds of health condition might be permanent, but you have the power to manage it. Find an allergy doctor in Manassas VA to help you manage your condition.

Aging and Allergies: How to Handle Allergies Among Seniors

Allergies can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, and race. Some people had their allergies from their childhood, while others have just developed theirs in their adulthood. In fact, there are studies that showed the increased number of individuals being diagnosed with some kind of food allergy in their senior years. Nevertheless, one should visit an allergist doctor for proper treatment of such allergic reactions.

Allergic sufferers vary on triggers that cause their allergies. Some are allergic to certain foods such as nuts or shellfish. On the other hand, some are allergic to pet dander, dust, or pollen. For any signs of allergic reactions, it is best to visit the best allergist near you to help treat your allergies.

Of aging and allergies

As mentioned, everyone can be prone to allergies, whether it’s due to food or environmental allergens. However, the impact of allergic reactions may be more dangerous among the elderly. Unlike their younger counterparts, elderly people usually have weaker immune systems which make them prone to potentially life-threatening consequences.

That is why it is important to understand the impact of allergies among the elderly. Usually, the risk of allergies declines as we age. However, there is such a thing as late-onset allergies which normally occur at a later age. For one thing, it is a normal thing for people in their senior years to catch an allergy. In other words, there is still a possibility that seniors may experience the effects of allergies.

An allergist is the one to go to for any signs of allergic reactions. However, diagnosis of allergies in seniors may also be more difficult than of teenagers and young adults. For example, an elderly’s skin may be less reactive to allergy testing than on young adults. As a result, allergy skin tests on seniors may not be as effective.

Still, this doesn’t mean there is no hope for allergy treatment in seniors. It is still a must to see allergy specialist doctors to help manage your allergies. Even if you haven’t reached your senior years, it is important that you know what triggers your allergies and be able to counteract it as soon as possible.

Is that an allergy or not?

As mentioned, allergies among senior adults can be more challenging to diagnose. In many cases, allergic symptoms are often overlooked because medical personnel is often focused on illnesses commonly-associated with old age such as high blood pressure and cognitive decline.

Diagnosis and treatment of allergies in old people is very much important. Otherwise, ignoring the signs of allergies can heighten the risk of stroke especially among the elderly. One study showed that adults aged 45 and above who had hay fever have almost 90 percent at risk of having a stroke.

The same applies to those who suffer from seasonal allergies. Some ignore the symptoms and still end up well. But for seniors, ignoring the symptoms can be fatal. For example, a clogged nose due to an allergic reaction can cause breathing difficulties and even lead to other health complications.

Most allergics would take an antihistamine to help manage their allergies. However, it may not be the best option for seniors who have allergies. Allergy medications such as antihistamines can cause adverse side effects such as mood swings, dizziness, or difficulty in urination. Such side effects can lead to serious consequences that can be potentially life-threatening to the senior person.

Managing allergies in senior persons

If you are taking care of an elderly person, here are ways to detect and manage allergy symptoms and to treat it immediately.

Don’t ignore the signs. As mentioned, allergies can happen to people of all ages, including the elderly people. Look out for the usual allergic symptoms such as the runny nose, sneezing, coughing, and skin itching among a few. These normally appear a few moments after coming into contact with a suspected allergen.
Do not give the elderly person an antihistamine yet. As mentioned, it may cause side effects that can be fatal especially to elderly people.
Try natural allergy busters such as regular exercise and breathing fresh air. Just make sure not to do the latter during the pollen season.

Find reliable allergy experts near you

When it comes to allergy treatments, you need to consult an allergist immediately. Contact the best allergy physician in Manassas VA for your allergy concerns.

What You Need to Know about Allergies in Babies

Babies can lighten up anyone’s mood with their cute coos and laughter. Their chubby cheeks, their toothless grin, and their pure innocence – who can resist these adorable little creatures anyway? More than material things, all parents only want what is best for their children and ensuring that they are 100 percent healthy and happy as they grow up.

However, babies do get sick at some point, whether it’s a simple cold to more complicated medical conditions. Of course, we as parents do not want the latter to occur to our young children. But if it does happen to our babies, you should rush to an allergy doctor immediately for proper medication.

What to expect on infant allergies

For one thing, it is not uncommon that babies get allergies just like older kids and adults. Baby allergies can be due to food or the environment they live in. On one hand, it can be easier to determine the cause of allergies among older kids and adults since they can verbally express to the allergy physician what happened prior to the allergic reaction.

On the other hand, it can be a little challenging to determine the root cause of a baby’s allergy since they don’t have the ability to speak yet. As a result, babies tend to be cranky and cry a lot due to the discomfort they are feeling. We all know that allergies occur due to our immune system’s reaction with a certain allergen, which also happens to babies.

The parents or their guardians can only guess the culprit based on the last food or drink the baby has consumed or the weather outside. Nonetheless, it is important to bring your baby to an allergist doctor for any unusual symptoms. Allergy testing may be needed to determine the root cause and provided the right kind of treatment for these little ones.

Is that an allergic reaction?

Babies sometimes catch colds, stomach aches, and other common illnesses at some point in their young lives. However, these symptoms might also be similar to allergic reactions. That is why it is important to distinguish the difference between the two.

For example, babies suffer from stomach issues mostly due to a virus. This results in gassiness, diarrhea, and vomiting. However, stomach aches in babies might also be due to an allergic reaction due to food or other environmental factors. In such cases, it is better to bring your baby to an allergist specialist for proper treatment.

Meanwhile, babies ages two to three months are also prone to rashes such as eczema and atopic dermatitis. It usually appears on the ankles, knees, neck, elbows, and wrist. However, eczema might be due to an allergic reaction to milk, food, and other environmental factors as well. Hives are usually rare in babies, yet should not be ignored when it does happen.

When we catch colds, we often experience runny nose and coughing. It is usually due to a virus or perhaps the weather. However, these symptoms might also be due to an allergic reaction. In some cases, babies experience wheezing and other signs of asthma which can be potentially fatal when left untreated.

Parents should look out for these symptoms – these usually last longer than colds and other common illnesses. It is also determined as an allergic reaction if it is not accompanied with body pains and fever. If you think your baby is experiencing an allergic reaction, it is better to visit an allergy clinic for proper treatment.

Allergy treatment for babies

If your baby is experiencing allergic reactions, you should do the following to provide relief for your little one. Your baby’s doctor may recommend prescription treatments for your little one’s allergic reactions such as creams and oral medications.

Also, make sure to avoid any kind of exposure to possible allergens including food, pollen, and other environmental allergens. You might also have to do some adjustments to your lifestyle such as replacing your mattress covers frequently and shifting into an allergy-proof detergent. Allergy testing, usually through blood or skin tests, may also be done in older children. Nonetheless, any kind of allergy treatment should have a go-signal from your doctor.

Taking care of your baby’s health

No parent wants to wish their child ill-health. That is why we should do everything to ensure our children’s optimum health. For signs of allergic reactions, you should visit an allergy specialist doctor in Manassas VA immediately.