America's Allergist Blog

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is a common respiratory disease which causes inflammation in the lungs. It can be caused by a virus or bacteria. Symptoms include a persistent cough, yellow or green mucus, shortness of breath and a low grade fever. There are two types of bronchitis-acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis can last between 2-3 weeks and can show up quickly after having a cold or respiratory infection. Chronic bronchitis can last about three months of the year, for a couple years. Those who smoke are more prone to developing chronic bronchitis. To help relieve symptoms and feel better, try these steps at...

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What You Need to Know About Tattoos

Do you know someone with a tattoo? The chances are pretty likely. One in four people ages 18-30 have a tattoo, about 65% of them being women. People get tattoos for different reasons. Some tattoos are military, tribal, cultural, make up, a memoir or for medical reasons. Someone receiving multiple radiation treatments may be tattooed at the radiation site. Tattoos can also be used during reconstructive breast surgery. Even though tattoos may be meaningful, they can also be harmful. Did you know some people are allergic to Thimerosal-a preservative used in tattoos and vaccines? A patch test for contact dermatitis...

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Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a serious, generalized allergic reaction that can be life threatening. When the body comes in contact with an allergen it is sensitive to, the immune system allergy antibodies (IgE) fight the allergens. Symptoms can appear within seconds or minutes. On rare occurrences, they may show up within a few hours. Symptoms include hives, a red rash, itchy skin, eyes, face and throat, shortness of breath, drop in blood pressure, throat and tongue swelling, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Allergens that most commonly cause anaphylaxis include foods (peanuts, shellfish and dairy), medications, pet dander, stinging insects (wasps and bees) and...

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Cold Urticaria

Cold urticaria is a skin disorder caused by a reaction to cold temperatures. When skin is exposed to the cold and then warms up, it causes itching, hives, red skin and swelling on the hands, face and mouth. Those with cold urticaria generally experience symptoms within minutes, when they are exposed to temperatures below 49 degrees. Warm, damp and windy weather may also cause symptoms for some. A common form of full body cold urticaria occurs after swimming in cold temperatures. Other causes can be from cold drinks and foods or from holding cold objects. Cold urticaria typically affects young...

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Allergies, Asthma and the Weather

Have the last few rainstorms caused you allergy symptoms? For many people, weather changes mean health issues. Some experience allergies, asthma attacks, migraines, joint pains and more. Patients with allergies can experience symptoms year round depending on the season and weather. When it is dry and windy, pollen blows throughout the air. It is best to keep windows and doors shut during this time. When it rains and is humid, moisture causes mold to grow.  Water also keeps pollen on the ground which helps those who are allergic to pollen. Cold air tends to cause asthma flare ups for those...

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