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Celiac Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Diet Plan

Gluten is a type of protein commonly found in some grain products such as barley, wheat, and rye. It helps maintain the food’s shape, keeps it moist and chewy, and makes the bread rise and look fluffy. Gluten may be harmless, tasteless, and odorless to some people. However, it can be fatal for many unlucky individuals.

People with such sensitivity to the food ingredient gluten most likely have a condition called celiac disease. It is usually diagnosed by an allergy specialist doctor. But if you suspect of having this condition, it is best to consult an allergist specialist for proper treatment.

What is a celiac disease?

It is said that one in 100 people around the world has celiac disease. To help manage this condition, you should visit an allergy clinic near you to prevent further complications that can be life-threatening if not managed properly.

This condition is considered an autoimmune disease wherein digestion of foods containing gluten can trigger allergic reactions. Worse, it can cause irreversible damage in the small intestine and largely affect your digestion. To begin with, celiac disease may not be easily detected as its symptoms vary from person to person.

As mentioned, celiac disease is triggered when a person has an allergic reaction to gluten. Upon consumption of food containing gluten, it triggers an immune response that causes damage to the small intestine particularly the villi. These finger-like things line up the intestine and aid in the absorption of nutrients. However, damaged villi can affect nutrient absorption and food digestion in general.

Celiac disease may occur either in childhood or in adulthood. However, it is believed that this condition runs in the family, which is why it may be a good idea to consult an allergist doctor to know if you inherited the condition. Nevertheless, the exact cause of the celiac disease is relatively unknown.

Causes and symptoms

As mentioned, both children and adults can be afflicted with celiac disease. However, symptoms may vary between both. For example, adults who have or are suspected to have this condition may experience one or more of the following symptoms.

Diarrhea/constipation
A feeling of bloating and excess gas
Sleep problems which can lead to chronic fatigue
Sudden weight loss
Anemia due to iron deficiency
Abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting
Presence of rashes (dermatitis herpetiformis)
Osteoporosis
Mouth sores
Tingling sensation in the hands and feet due to an injury in the nervous system
Balance and cognitive problems
Hyposplenism (a condition that affects spleen function)

On the other hand, children may experience symptoms different from those of adults. It is also said that children may be more prone to digestive issues than adults. One possible reason is that their digestive system is not yet as mature as adults. Among common symptoms of celiac disease in children include:

Constipation/diarrhea
Excessive gas
Bloating
Nausea and vomiting
Stools that may have an unbearable smell

If you suspect your child has the condition, it is important to have him/her get an allergy testing procedure for proper treatment. Otherwise, it can affect digestion and lack of nutrient absorption can lead to:

Weak teeth
Weight loss
Headaches
A tendency to throw frequent tantrums
Anemia due to iron deficiency
Delays in growth and puberty
Learning and muscle coordination problems
Death especially in infants

What to have and not to have in a gluten diet

People with celiac disease should follow a strict gluten-free diet. Likewise, it is important to identify certain foods that contain gluten but does not explicitly state it in the food label. You can consult an allergy doctor regarding gluten-free foods you can indulge in.

Some wheat-based products that usually contain gluten include the following:

Semolina (common in couscous and pasta)
Self-rising (phosphate) flour
Graham flour
Farina (common in hot cereals)
Flour enriched with minerals and vitamins
Other wheat varieties such as durum, spelt, einkorn, kamut, and emmer

In addition, some foods may have gluten and should be careful not to eat to avoid adverse reactions. These include:

Beer, ale, malt (all barley-based beverage)
Bread
Cakes and pastries
Cereals
Soy sauce
Pasta
Soup Mixes

Meanwhile, a usual gluten-free diet may include meat, seafood, eggs, and other protein-rich foods. There are also gluten-free grain alternatives such as millet, quinoa, and buckwheat. You can also include vegetables and nuts, although you may need to consult an allergist as you may also have allergies with the latter.

Seek medical help from allergy experts

If you experience the abovementioned signs of celiac disease, you should visit an allergy clinic in Manassas VA so you will be given the right medication and treatment.

What You Need to Know About Dairy Allergy

Most people would have already consumed dairy products since we were kids. As a child, our parents prepared us fresh milk for breakfast and before bedtime. Meanwhile, some people like their hamburgers and pizzas cheesy enough you cannot see the meat anymore. In other words, we have basically lived with dairy nourishing our bodies almost every day.

But for some people, consuming milk and other dairy products can be a curse. In fact, it can even be potentially life-threatening to them. This condition may even send you to an allergy clinic, or the emergency room in worse cases if the symptoms become worse. This is most likely due to dairy allergies and should be treated by an allergist.

Is it the same as lactose intolerance?

On one hand, dairy allergies affect a person’s immune system. It occurs when the body reacts to the protein components of dairy products including milk. It then triggers allergic reactions that can be potentially dangerous for some people. Allergic reactions can range from mild rashes to as severe as breathing difficulties.

On the other hand, lactose intolerance affects the digestive system. Those who have lactose intolerance do not have the ability to digest lactose, a component present in dairy products such as milk and cheese. Lactase deficiency is also usually the cause of lactose intolerance. Lactase is a type of enzyme that is produced in the small intestine.

Lactase turns into galactose and glucose and then absorbed into our bloodstream. In lactose intolerance, however, lactose does not get absorbed and instead moves to the colon, interacts with bacteria, and then cause lactose intolerance. If you suspect of having lactose intolerance, you should consult an allergy specialist doctor for proper treatment.

Symptoms and risk factors

Symptoms of both dairy allergies and lactose intolerance may show up early in childhood, but some may experience it later on in adulthood. You should consult an allergy physician if you experience any adverse reactions upon consumption of dairy products.

Lactose intolerance and dairy allergy symptoms may vary from mild to severe. It usually depends on how much your body can tolerate lactose. Symptoms may also show up around 30 minutes to a few hours after consuming dairy products. However, some symptoms of dairy allergy and lactose intolerance may be the same with each other.

Among these include vomiting and nausea, abdominal cramps, bloating, gas, and diarrhea. However, dairy allergy can also cause allergic reactions in a person’s skin and respiratory system which can be potentially fatal at this point. These symptoms include:

Hives
Facial or lip swelling
Wheezing
Rashes
Difficulty in swallowing and breathing
Bloody stools (in infants)
Anaphylaxis (in worst cases)

You are more likely to have a dairy allergy if you have skin conditions such as eczema. Also, your genes may also dictate your risk of having this condition. For example, one of your parents may also have foods allergies or dairy allergies as well. Children as young as two are also most likely to have a dairy allergy.

Diagnosis and treatment

There are ways that an allergy doctor can determine whether you have lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. An allergist doctor would usually recommend patients to undergo allergy testing and other tests that will confirm your condition.

For dairy allergies, you may need to undergo a skin prick test. It involves putting a small drop of liquid that contains dairy allergen on your skin. It will result in a red, itchy bump if you have dairy allergies. An allergist specialist may also require taking a blood test or an oral test to confirm your condition.

For lactose intolerance, you may undergo either a hydrogen breath test, lactose tolerance tests. For babies and small children, a stool acidity test may be recommended by a doctor.

Managing dairy allergy

To prevent allergic reactions due to dairy products, you should not consume any dairy products in the first place. It is also important to check the food packaging to see whether it contains even just small traces of milk or dairy content. You may even find dairy content in the least expected foods such as canned tuna and energy drinks, so you should be careful as well.

There are also foods that contain calcium which can be a great and safe alternative for milk as your source of calcium. However, make sure you also don’t have allergies with these foods. Among these include:

Broccoli, collards, kale
Sardines, salmon, and other canned fish with bones
Juice and cereals with a calcium content
Tofu and other soy-based products
Almonds

Dairy allergy is real, and those who have it should be careful when consuming foods. If you suspect of having dairy allergies, consult an allergy physician in Germantown MD.

What You Need to Know About Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis or EoE is a condition that causes the esophagus to swell. The esophagus is a tube-like internal part of the body that transports food that you eat into the stomach. EoE causes discomfort or even pain and difficulty in swallowing the food you eat due to the inflammation.

you can also be triggered by mold, pollen, or food allergens. Although, there is no exact proof and research about these claims. Nonetheless, it would be a good idea to consult an allergy physician for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What you need to know about you

Eosinophilic esophagitis or EoE is a long-term disease that affects the immune system. It involves the eosinophil, a type of white blood cell, which builds up in the esophageal lining. Often, this buildup is caused by food allergens. The said buildup leads to the inflammation of the esophageal tissue, making swallowing difficult and even painful.

If you experience this, do not delay as it can be potentially life-threatening. Visit an allergy clinic and have yourself treated by a trusted allergist doctor. EoE is considered one of the major causes of gastrointestinal illnesses. Common symptoms of EoE include the following:

Dysphagia (Difficulty in swallowing)
Chest pain
Regurgitation
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Delayed growth and weight loss (in children)

This means eosinophilic esophagitis can be contracted by both children and adults. Men are more at risk of having this condition than women. Likewise, those who have family members who also suffer from allergies are also at risk of having EoE.

EoE in children vs. adults

As mentioned, eosinophilic esophagitis can occur both in children and adults. However, those who have a history of food allergies, eczema, and asthma are at higher risk of having EoE. Unfortunately, this condition might be challenging to detect as symptoms can differ depending on age and are often mistaken for other health issues.

For example, infants and toddlers suffering suspected of having EoE would not eat due to difficulty in swallowing. Some kids would also experience abdominal pain, vomiting, and growth delays in the worst cases. EoE patients point out certain food triggers that are causing the condition.

In adults, one of the most common symptoms of EoE is what is called dysphagia. It occurs when the food you eat gets stuck in the esophagus. Patients would have to chew their food carefully and drink lots of water to push the food down their stomach. If you or your child suffer from (or suspecting of having) EoE, it would be a better idea to consult an allergy physician near you.

Is not considered a food allergy?

Technically, it can be considered as one. When you take a certain food that is suspected of causing an allergic reaction, the condition usually subsides and makes the person feel better. But when the person starts eating that offending food again, the allergic reaction might come back.

Also, EoE does not involve IgE antibodies which makes it a little tricky to detect what the offending food is. That said, allergy experts suggest undergoing allergy testing to determine if there are any IgE-mediated allergies such as mold, pollen, or animal dander allergies.

How to treat EoE

Unfortunately, there is no permanent cure for you. However, this condition is generally manageable by proper diet, medication, or both. For one thing, there is no existing treatment for you.

However, allergy experts prescribe corticosteroids or glucocorticosteroids for the patients. Steroids can help provide relief from inflammation and lessen eosinophil activity. On the downside, steroids can only deal with the symptoms and can have potential side effects such as acne and weight gain.

Another way to treat EoE is by adjusting your diet. You can visit an allergy clinic in Manassas VA to determine the specific food item that is causing the adverse reaction. The “Six-food Elimination Diet” refers to a diet that eliminates the most common allergenic foods such as eggs, nuts, soy, milk, wheat, and seafood. From here, doctors and patients will know which among these allergens the culprit is and come up with proper treatment.

The patient can also try the “elemental diet” which is getting rid of all regular drinks and foods from your usual meal plan. And then replacing it with various vitamins, minerals, and amino acids for about a month or so. Once there is an improvement in the esophagus, foods can be reintroduced slowly to determine the culprit that is causing the EoE symptoms.

Food Allergy vs. Food Intolerance: What’s The Difference?

Food and drinks are meant to be enjoyed and to be sources of nourishment and better health. Unfortunately, some people are not able to enjoy certain foods due to health reasons. For example, some people may be advised by their doctors to avoid fatty or salty foods. Others have to avoid dairy products or peanuts due to potential allergic reactions.

Speaking of allergic reactions, you should visit an allergy doctor if you experience symptoms after eating a certain food item. Some of these symptoms may only be mild, while others can be potentially life-threatening. If you suffer from common allergy symptoms, you should go to an allergy clinic immediately for proper treatment.

Often interchanged

There are many types of allergies, one of the most common is food allergies. Food allergies cause adverse reactions when a person consumes a food item that turns out to be the cause of the said allergic reaction. However, there are also instances wherein people mistake food intolerance as allergies.

Food allergies and food intolerance are often mistakenly interchanged but are actually two different things. So, how would you know if what you have is a food allergy or food intolerance? First of all, you should consult a trusted allergist doctor to confirm it. Other than that, you should understand the difference between the two.

All about food allergy

Like any other allergies, a food allergy causes an adverse reaction on the immune system and cause those familiar symptoms including:

Itchy skin/hives/skin rashes
Runny nose, sneezing, wheezing
Stomach pain, diarrhea
Vomiting, nausea
Swelling around the mouth, throat, or tongue
Difficulty in breathing

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease reports that more than 30 million Americans suffer from some kind of allergies – both adults and children. Some children eventually outgrow their allergies, while others bring it along with them into adulthood.

Several food items often cause food allergies such as peanuts, eggs, dairy, soy, tree nuts, wheat, and fish. Food allergies can be life-threatening and can hit different parts of the body including the skin, cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems. If you have allergies, make sure to visit an allergist for immediate treatment.

All about food intolerance

As mentioned, food allergies are often confused with food intolerance, which is two different things. Although, food intolerance can also cause discomfort and other symptoms similar to food allergies. However, there might be little to none reaction if you eat in small amounts. You can also opt for lactose-free milk or have Lactaid in hand just in case.

You can also consult an allergy physician if you are not sure if it’s an allergy or a food tolerance. Food intolerance occurs because of the following:

Being sensitive to certain food ingredients
Lack of an enzyme that is crucial to digest food properly
Stress/anxiety or any psychological issues that affect your eating
Celiac disease

Lactose intolerance is the most common and well-known type of food intolerance. The ingredient lactose is a type of sugar commonly found in dairy products. Some cannot tolerate food additives. The digestive system is the one affected by food intolerance and causes discomfort in your tummy area.

How to differentiate food allergies and intolerance

Both food allergies and intolerance can cause discomfort to those who have it. If you are not sure which of the two you have, you can visit a trusted allergist specialist to confirm your condition. Nevertheless, you should understand the difference between the two.

If you have a food intolerance, your digestive system is the one affected. Whereas, the immune system is often the one affected when someone is experiencing a food allergy. Food intolerance usually is tolerable with mild to moderate discomfort. However, food allergies can be potentially life-threatening if left untreated.

You usually feel the effects of a food intolerance a few hours after you have eaten the offending food. On the other hand, a food allergy symptom usually manifests itself within an hour. If that happens, be prepared to call the nearest emergency room or an allergy clinic in Manassas in case the symptoms worsen.

We need to eat to nourish our bodies and ensure a healthier body and mind. However, we still have to be careful with what we eat and make sure we only eat what’s best for our body and overall health.

Allergic to Sweat? Here’s What You Need to Know

To achieve a healthy mind and body, one must have a regular dose of healthy food and exercise. Some lift weights, while some people do cardio exercises such as running, jumping rope, and cycling. However, some people need to be extra cautious when doing intense physical activities because it can lead to some adverse health effects.

For example, those who suffer from asthma may have to be more careful when exercising. They might also have to bring their asthma treatments in handy just in case something happens while they are doing intense workouts. It is also best to consult an asthma doctor first before engaging in any physical activities.

Aside from asthma, some people experience allergies due to their sweat and getting too hot. Can you imagine getting allergic reactions just because you feel hot and sweaty? Unfortunately, this can be just as common as food and pollen allergies. Nonetheless, you should have yourself checked by an allergist for proper treatment.

What you need to know about “sweat allergy”

The technical term for this type of allergy is Cholinergic urticaria or cholinergic angioedema. In layman’s term, it is also called sweat allergy or heat pumps. Basically, this condition occurs due to increased body temperature and resulting in itchy hives. It is not clear what exactly causes this type of allergy. However, it is said that it is the body’s reaction to sweat.

There is a higher chance of having this condition if you are suffering from other allergies such as eczema, hives, or asthma. People who have CU experience mild to life-threatening symptoms. Common symptoms of CU include the following:

Hives (generalized urticarial)
Swelling (angioedema) around the lips and face, or the tongue or throat in worst cases
Hypotension (low blood pressure)
Bronchospasm

If you notice these symptoms, make sure to visit an allergy specialist doctor to help treat your allergies. You might also need to undergo allergy testing to confirm the real cause of your allergies.

What causes Cholinergic urticaria?

This type of allergy usually happens in a flash after the person gets too hot or starts to sweat. It can occur on different parts of the body especially the arms or the torso. The rash would also feel itchy and even some burning sensation and resemble swelling. On a positive note, these rashes due to cholinergic urticaria will eventually fade as quickly as they appeared.

However, some may experience other symptoms aside from rashes, such as:

Diarrhea
Headaches
Nausea
Stomach cramps
Breathing difficulties

As mentioned, cholinergic urticarial occurs when the person gets sweaty or too hot. But other factors can trigger CU such as:

Eating spicy dishes
Stress/anger
Fever
Sun exposure
Hot baths/sauna/hot tubs

These factors can increase body temperature, making the body hot and even sweaty, hence the possibility of having CU.

How to deal with “sweat allergies”

If you notice the abovementioned symptoms, make sure to consult an allergist doctor immediately. You should also undergo a series of allergy testing such as warming test and exercise test to confirm the diagnosis of CU. Treatment might also vary depending on the person.

Some would have to take meds while others have to change their lifestyle 360 degrees. This means avoid heavy exercises that can make them sweat a lot, not eating spicy foods, and not going to spas and saunas. You should also manage stress and anger through meditation and going on therapy.

You might also have to adjust your diet and avoid foods that can trigger CU. This include:

Alcohol
Dairy (ex. milk, cheese, etc)
Vinegar
Nuts
Canned foods and others with additives
Seafood
Salty foods

It can be more challenging if you live in a tropical country where the sun is often around. In such a case, you need to have antihistamines on hand as prescribed by your doctors such as cetirizine, loratadine, or beta-blockers.

Prevention

If you experience allergic reactions due to CU, say, during exercise, slow down or stop as needed. Take a cool shower or cool off while standing in front of an electric fan or go to an air-conditioned room. Relax and avoid stressing yourself. Visit an allergy clinic in Manassas for immediate treatment of your condition.

What You Need to Know about Peanut Allergies

It is said that around 1 million children in the US suffer from a peanut allergy. Out of these statistics, only about 20 percent of them will outgrow their peanut allergies. Nonetheless, it is best to avoid peanuts and other food that contain this ingredient. It is also better to visit an allergy physician to help deal with your allergy issues.

Those with peanut allergy might suffer an adverse allergic reaction once they ingested even a small amount of peanut. Some common peanut allergy reactions include skin hives or swelling, stomach, or digestion problems. In the worst cases, peanut allergies can cause potentially life-threatening reactions such as airway constriction and inadequate blood flow.

Facts about peanut allergy

Here are basic but important facts about peanut allergies.

Peanut allergy is one of the most common allergies, especially among children.
Food allergies including peanut allergies can be potentially deadly. It can cause breathing difficulties, low blood pressure, and anaphylaxis in the worst cases.
There are about 3 million people in the US who are suffering from allergies due to tree nuts and peanuts.
Tree nuts include almonds, cashews, and walnuts. On the other hand, peanuts are actually legumes, the same as peas and soybeans.
A lot of people suffer from allergies throughout their lifetime, children and adults alike. However, about 20 percent of kids eventually outgrow their allergies.
You are more likely to have an allergy (including peanut allergy) if it is in your genes.
It is better to introduce peanuts to children at a young age. However, there should still be cautious when doing so to prevent the onset of allergic reactions.

How to prevent reactions due to peanut allergies

To prevent peanut allergies, you need to consult an allergy specialist doctor for proper treatment. You would also have to undergo allergy testing to confirm whether your allergies are indeed due to peanuts.

Aside from tests, you may also have to keep a food diary to track your food intake and medications taken in case of an allergic reaction. If you already know that peanuts are the culprit of your allergic reactions, make sure to get rid of it from your diet.

You can also use this method to confirm whether it’s the peanut that’s causing the allergies. Do not eat peanuts or food that contain even small traces of peanuts for at least a week. After that, you can slowly reintroduce it to your diet and see if you experience any adverse reactions when you do eat one later on.

Palforzia: The answer to peanut allergy?

Around the first quarter of 2020, the US FDA has approved Palforzia for peanut allergy treatment. The said medication aims to minimize the adverse effects of peanut allergy symptoms such as anaphylaxis. It can be taken by patients as young as 4 and above.

Common treatments used for peanut allergies include epinephrine and antihistamines. However, these treatments may not prevent severe symptoms even if taken in the right dosages and as per schedule.

Taking Palforzia requires three phases. First, is the Initial Dose Escalation. In this phase, this treatment is given for a day. The second phase, the Up-Dosing, requires multiple dosage levels in a course of several months. It should be taken under the supervision of a knowledgeable allergy physician for the proper way of taking the medication. The third and last phase requires maintaining the dosages at home.

Just make sure to monitor the treatment of any adverse reaction. If there is, the patient should discontinue taking the treatment. Ironically, California is made from peanuts and comes in capsule and powder forms. It is then mixed with pudding, yogurt, or other semisolid foods. Make sure to consult an allergist doctor first before taking any allergy treatments.

Conclusion

Peanut allergies are only one of the many types of food allergies. Some may experience only mild symptoms while others may experience extreme ones. Also, make it a point to check food packaging labels to prevent possible allergic reactions.

Consult an allergy physician for any allergy-related concerns. An allergist in Manassas should be able to diagnose a possible peanut allergy and recommend the best treatment for it. Contact one today for your peace of mind.

Cryotherapy for Allergy Treatment: How It Works and Is It Worth It?

One of the most common symptoms of an allergic reaction is a runny nose. However, this is usually mistaken as a symptom of a common cold. But you should know that your runny nose is not because of a cold. If you are not sure, you can find an allergy doctor to determine whether your sniffles are indeed due to an allergic reaction.

Is it really an allergic reaction?

Sometimes, you might not need to go to an allergist if you have a runny nose. You can find out by yourself if your runny nose is because of an allergy. For one, if those sniffles have been bugging you for the past couple of weeks, chances are it is due to allergies.

This condition is called chronic rhinitis. If you experience this, you should seek immediate treatment. Visit an allergist so that you will feel better and get rid of the annoying sniffling all day and all night. Allergic rhinitis can be due to common allergens like pet dander, pollen, dust mites, as well as household products, perfume, and even hormonal changes.

There is another type of rhinitis called the vasomotor rhinitis. It usually happens due to nasal hyperactivity, but can be treated using steroid sprays. However, steroid sprays may only provide relief in a short amount of time. Another treatment one can consider is through cryotherapy.

What is cryotherapy?

Perhaps you have already heard about cryotherapy. Some people associate cryotherapy with exposing the body to freezing cold temperatures. Cryotherapy is also being used to hasten muscle recovery. It is also said that NBA superstar Lebron James is an avid fan of cryotherapy.

However, cryotherapy can also be a breakthrough treatment for allergic reactions such as rhinitis. The difference is that cryotherapy for allergy treatment won’t require you to expose your body to freezing temperatures. Instead, it involves freezing some nasal nerves to lessen your sniffles.

Freezing the nasal nerves will block the signals that cause congestion, runny nose, or sneezing. This treatment is said to be ideal for those with chronic allergies or those whose allergic and asthma treatments are not effective.

But before trying any treatments for the first time, it is also a good idea to consult an allergist specialist. You might also have to undergo allergy testing to make sure that you are getting the right treatment through cryotherapy.

How cryotherapy works

Cryotherapy is a minimally-invasive treatment that involves using local anesthesia and a cryotherapy probe. The latter will then be inserted into the nostril and freeze the nasal nerves. The end result should supposedly lessen or eliminate stuffy or runny nose. This treatment can promise long-term relief from runny nose and other symptoms of rhinitis.

The treatment itself is painless, except for the insertion part. The entire treatment may require several sessions for better results, but it may depend on the therapy provider. Your allergy doctor might be aware of this treatment, while some might not. Nonetheless, it is best to consult a doctor first before trying any medication or treatment.

What happens after cryotherapy?

Undergoing cryotherapy won’t take a lot of your time to recover. Although, you might have to lie low a little bit and avoid strenuous activities in the meantime. You might also expect some side effects such as a noticeable increased nasal congestion. But you can also expect significant improvements around two to six weeks after the therapy.

It is also important to note that cryotherapy won’t get rid of your allergies entirely. This is because allergies are mostly an immune system concern. That said, cryotherapy has nothing to do with your immune system. Instead, it will provide only treatment by doing something on your nasal nerves.

Also, cryotherapy may not be recommended for those with specific health issues such as:

Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria
Raynaud’s disease
Cryoglobulinemia
Cold urticarial
Open wounds or specific skin conditions
Diabetes
Sensitivity to cold temperatures
Blood disorders
Neuropathic conditions

If you experience frequent rhinitis and do not have the abovementioned health conditions, then you can try cryotherapy. It does not require surgery although it is minimally invasive.

There will be some mild discomfort but you will notice results after a few weeks post-treatment. However, make sure to consult an allergist doctor in Germantown prior to your planned cryotherapy treatment.

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.

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.

It’s That Time of The Year Again: Managing Your Asthma This Winter Season

Allergy

Winter is just around the corner. A lot of people look forward to seeing and playing with snow at this time of the year. It is also a great time to show off your winter fashion and warm up with friends and family in front of the fireplace. But for some people, winter can be one of their worst nightmares.

For one, winter is also the time when asthma symptoms tend to get worse. Before your condition gets worst, you should visit an allergy clinic immediately. An asthma doctor will provide you the right medications to help alleviate your asthma symptoms. Knowing how to manage your asthma symptoms can help lessen the feeling of discomfort and somehow help you enjoy the chilly weather.

The link between winter and asthma

As mentioned, the cold weather can cause allergic triggers that can hinder you to enjoy the season. In fact, Chinese findings back in 2014 found that people who got hospitalized due to asthma attacks increased significantly during the winter season.

The cold and dry air is one of the most known triggers of asthma. It can irritate the airways and cause muscle spasms. The result is an asthma attack that can literally take your breath away, albeit in a negative way.

If you are prone to allergies and asthma attacks, you should consult an allergy physician to help manage your symptoms. An allergy specialist doctor will help you manage your allergic reactions. Aside from the cold and dry weather, there are other lesser-known asthma triggers.

Other common winter asthma triggers

Cold and dry winter air is not the only cause of asthma at this time of the year. Regardless of these triggers, asthma attacks can be potentially fatal if not treated immediately. Once asthma symptoms occur, consult an asthma doctor immediately. These are some of the following.

Smokes and scents

Most homeowners would be setting up their fireplaces to warm up their respective homes. Meanwhile, some homeowners light up scented candles to add up to the warm ambiance as well as to make the room smell like the holidays. However, smoke may contain particles that can trigger asthma. The same goes for scented candles, which can also cause allergic reactions.

Christmas tree

Believe it or not, your Christmas tree, especially real ones, can also cause asthma triggers. These real pine trees may carry pollen and mold which can be potentially fatal for allergy sufferers. While you can opt for plastic Christmas trees, nothing beats the real thing – unless you are not prone to allergies.

Pets

Cats and dogs are some of the most common household pets, and they tend to stay more indoors during winter. This means higher chances of pet dander and fur floating around your home, which can result in allergies. An allergy testing may be necessary to confirm whether pet dander is the culprit to your asthma attacks.

How to avoid winter-related asthma attacks

You cannot control the weather, but you can somehow manage your asthma symptoms. Having allergies doesn’t mean you cannot enjoy the chilly weather anymore. Still, you need to take extra precautions especially if you know that you are prone to asthma attacks during the winter season.

Here are some preventive tips you need to take note of so you can make the most out of this festive season.

As much as possible, avoid using firewood to light up your fireplace. There are fireplaces that are lighted using gas that you can use instead.
If you are sensitive to the scent of essential oils, candles, or incense, consider shopping online instead. This lessens the risk of allergic reactions as compared to buying these items in a physical store.
Prevent the spread of flu bacteria and germs by washing your hands. Do not kiss people who have colds or coughs.
Use a scarf loosely wrapped around your neck when you go outside. This warms up the air you breathe, hence lessening the risk of asthma triggers.

Enjoy the holidays asthma-free

As mentioned, we cannot control the weather nor have the power to cease winter. However, there are ways to manage your allergy and asthma symptoms and be able to enjoy the holiday seasons in better health. Upon noticing signs of asthma, make sure to find an allergy doctor in Germantown MD to help manage your symptoms.