Inhaler technique is critical!
Most asthma patients are not using their inhalers and/or spacers correctly, and, therefore, are not getting the maximum benefit from these devices. All physicians caring for asthma patients will attest to the fact that even after demonstrating the proper technique for using a metered dose inhaler or spacer, “show and tell” on subsequent office visits proves that excellent technique is rarely observed, especially in children. A recent study revealed that only 50% of those using an inhaler alone had good technique and only 29% of those using an inhaler with a spacer were using it adequately. For both groups and devices, breathing out before inhalation and breath holding was problematic. This study reinforces the need to demon
Beware of peanut allergies in infants and toddlers!
Most allergists practicing for more than a decade have observed that the age of presentation of peanut allergy in infants is getting earlier and earlier. A recent article published in PEDIATRICS has proven that this is the case.In 1995, the median ages of first peanut reaction was 24 months. Of those infants born after July, 2000 presenting to a major university allergy department, the median age of first peanut reaction was 14 months! The decline in the age of first peanut reaction seems to be attributable to earlier exposure. It is interesting to note that this study found that most patients (68%) who were peanut allergic demonstrated sensitization or clinical allergy to other foods (53% to eggs, 26% to cow's milk, 20% to tree nuts, 11% t
Antihistamines
What are these medications used for?
Antihistamines are medications prescribed to treat multiple allergic conditions, including seasonal and year round nasal allergies, itching, hives, eczema, and allergic reactions. Antihistamines work by blocking the action of histamine, a substance produced by our bodies during allergic reactions. Histamine is the major chemical mediator responsible for many allergy symptoms including itchiness, sneezing, runny nose or eyes, and swellings. Antihistamines commonly come in pill
There is no relationship between seafood allergy and radiocontrast media!
How often do allergists hear: “I am allergic to fish and therefore I am allergic to the iodine in radiocontrast dye”?The long-standing misconception that there is a higher incidence of allergic reactions to radiocontrast media (IVP dye) in those with seafood allergy is alive and well. And, this misunderstanding is pervasive among both physicians and patients.In a survey of 231 faculty radiologist and interventional cardiologists at 6 midwest academic medical centers, sixty-nine percent of responders indicated that they inquire about a history of seafood allergy before radiocontrast media administration. Some 37.2% of responders replied that they would withhold radiocontrast media or recommend premedication on the basis of a hist
Are creams and moisturizers containing oats safe for children with atopic dermatitis?
It is interesting to note that some cream emollients and moisturizers that contain oats may actually be doing more harm than good in patients with atopic dermatitis (eczema). A recent study from France found an alarming rate of sensitization to oat protein among children using oat containing topical products. Sensitization rates were particularly high in children two years old and younger. Oatmeal baths and oat creams have a reputation for soothing the angry, inflamed skin of those with atopic dermatitis or eczema. The evidence presented in this study raises questions about this claim, and caution is therefore warranted when using these products, especially if used regularly.
One EpiPen may not be enough. Be prepared!
A recent study assessing emergency room records confirms the fact that a significant number of patients with anaphylactic reactions to food needed more than one injection of epinephrine. The data from this study revealed that 16% of patients presenting with food induced anaphylaxis required two injections. Previous data showed that as many as 25% of reactions required multiple doses. Multiple doses of epinephrine appeared to be more likely in those with reactions to peanuts and tree nuts and those presenting with hypotension.The message is clear: Those with a history of anaphylaxis and those highly allergic to foods, medicines, or insect stings should be prepared to treat anaphylaxis with multiple injections of epinephrine until medical ass
