tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40297836640783469922024-03-13T18:12:29.486-04:00Druce the AllergistA blog for those interested in allergy, allergic conditions and allergy treatmentsDr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-51083982205555213952013-11-26T20:15:00.002-05:002013-11-26T20:15:36.824-05:00Food-Allergic Kids Need Current Epi Script<br /><div id="articleHead">
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From the recent ACAAI Meeting</h1>
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Food-Allergic Kids Need Current Epi Script</div>
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BALTIMORE
— Just 30% of food-allergic children presenting to a pediatric
outpatient clinic have a current prescription for an epinephrine
autoinjector, with far fewer having chart documentation of how to
administer it, according to a new study.<br />
"It was a surprise," lead investigator Christopher Couch, MD, told <i>Medscape Medical News</i>
before presenting the findings here at the American College of Allergy,
Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) 2013 Annual Scientific Meeting.<br />
"This
study started as a quality-improvement project. There's room for much
improvement ― and some of those quality-improvement measures include
physician education," said Dr. Couch, a pediatric resident at the
University of Nevada School of Medicine in Las Vegas.<br />
The retrospective chart review of outpatient visits at 2 pediatric resident clinics included 57 patients (mean age, 6 years).<br />
Most
of the patients, 53%, were allergic to peanut, with 30% allergic to
egg, 26% to shellfish, 18% to tree nut, 5% to milk, and 4% to wheat.<br />
Although
67% of the charts documented the prescription of an epinephrine
autoinjector at some time, only 30% of patients had a current
prescription, with just 18% having documentation of administration
instructions, and 14% having documentation of a food allergy action
plan.<br />
The study also found that 58% had received a referral to an
allergist and that 58% had undergone laboratory testing for
allergy-specific serum IgE levels.<br />
Three quarters of the patients had Medicaid insurance, and 21% were Spanish speaking.<br />
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There's room for much improvement ― and some of those quality-improvement measures include physician education. <span class="calloutauthor">Dr. Christopher Couch</span>
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Current guidelines from the National Institute of Allergy and
Infectious Diseases on the management of food allergies recommend that
patients be prescribed epinephrine autoinjectors on a yearly basis,
that instructions be given regarding use and administration of the
medication, and that an emergency action plan be discussed with the
patient and written down, said Dr. Couch. A plan for monitoring
expiration dates should also be outlined with the family, he said.<br />
"Many
residents aren't aware that the prescription does expire," he added.
"We have paper charts, but with electronic records, it's a great
opportunity to have pop-up reminders 1 year after the prescription is
written."<br />
Dr. Couch pointed out that the results may reflect
physician oversight "or could simply be a lack of documentation in the
chart. We cannot conclude that the prescriptions were not filled by the
patient."<br />
Asked by <i>Medscape Medical News</i> to comment on
the findings, Ronna Campbell, MD, from the Mayo Clinic Department of
Emergency Medicine, in Rochester, Minnesota, said, "Food allergy in
children is frequently a lifelong condition that requires ongoing
reassessment and management. I agree with the authors' conclusions that
development of quality-improvement strategies would be helpful in
ensuring consistent and appropriate long-term management so that
patients are adequately prepared to manage anaphylaxis should it occur."<br />
Dr. Campbell's recent review on this topic pointed to evidence that many clinicians do not know how to properly demonstrate autoinjector use (<i>Pediatr Emerg Care</i> 2012;28:938-942).<br />
"In
a study of junior and senior medical staff demonstrating the use of the
EpiPen, Mehr et al revealed that, in 37% of cases, the physician's
demonstration would have failed to deliver epinephrine to a patient,"
Dr. Campbell wrote in the review. "Furthermore, 16% of the physicians
would have self-injected their thumb had they been using an actual
EpiPen."<br />
Asked whether failure to prescribe autoinjectors might be
related to physician lack of confidence or knowledge in this area, she
said, "One could speculate that that is a possible cause, but it is
more likely that it just gets overlooked because there are no systematic
ways of ensuring that the prescription is renewed."<br />
<i>Dr. Couch and Dr. Campbell report no relevant financial relationships</i>.<br />
American
College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) 2013 Annual
Scientific Meeting: Abstract 5. Presented November 10, 2013.</div>
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Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-61887353382519523532013-11-12T12:46:00.002-05:002013-11-12T12:46:13.239-05:00Allergy Myths<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="ms-rteCustom-mainH1"><strong>Defining Allergy Fact from Fiction</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em>The greatest allergy myths and misconceptions, debunked</em></div>
<strong>BALTIMORE, MD. (November 7, 2013) –</strong> From gluten
allergy and hypoallergenic pets, to avoiding the flu shot because of an
egg allergy, there are a lot of common myths and misconceptions about <a href="http://www.acaai.org/allergist/allergies/Pages/default.aspx">allergies</a>.
Many might be shocking due to a great deal of false information in the
media and on the Internet. And some of the misconceptions can be
damaging to your health if vaccinations are skipped and extreme dietary
avoidances are taken.<br />
But where did all of these misconceptions come from? According to a
presentation being given at the Annual Scientific Meeting of the
American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), previously
held beliefs from medical experts and public perception are partially to
blame.<br /><br />
“Many early medical beliefs have been proven to be incorrect as research
has advanced,” said allergist David Stukus, MD, ACAAI member and
presenter. “Unfortunately, some of these beliefs are still on the
Internet, where an astonishing 72 percent of users turn to for health
information.”<br /><br />
In his presentation, Dr. Stukus outlined some of the greatest allergy myths, and explained why they are false.<br />
<ol>
<li><strong>I’m Allergic to Artificial Dyes –</strong> There is no
scientific evidence to support a link between exposure to artificial
coloring and allergies. Controversy exists regarding evidence for
artificial coloring and behavioral changes in children, as well as dyes
causing chronic urticaria and asthma.</li>
<li><strong>I Cannot Have Vaccines Due to an Egg Allergy –</strong>
Egg embryos are used to grow viruses for vaccines such as the flu,
yellow fever and rabies shots. However, it’s now safe to get the <a href="http://www.acaai.org/allergist/allergies/Types/drug-allergy/Pages/flu-shots-egg-allergy.aspx">flu shot</a>, which can help prevent serious illness.</li>
<li><strong>At-Home Blood Tests Reveal All You’re Allergic To –</strong>
These tests might be able to reveal sensitization, but being sensitized
to a certain allergen, like milk, doesn’t mean you’re allergic. These
sort of at-home screening tests are not reliable and can often lead to
misinterpretation, diagnostic confusion and unnecessary dietary
elimination.</li>
<li><strong>Highly Allergenic Foods Shouldn’t be Given to Children until 12 Months of Age –</strong> For most children, there is no evidence to support avoidance of highly <a href="http://www.acaai.org/allergist/allergies/Types/food-allergies/Pages/default.aspx">allergenic foods</a>
past four to six months of age. New evidence emerging shows that early
introduction of highly allergenic foods may promote tolerance.</li>
<li>I’m Allergic to Cats and Dogs, but Can Have a Hypoallergenic Breed
– Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog
or cat. Allergens are released in saliva, sebaceous glands and perianal
glands. It’s not the fur people are allergic to. It is true that some
breeds are more bothersome for allergy sufferers than others.</li>
<li><strong>I’m Allergic to Shellfish and Cannot Have Iodine Imaging –</strong>
Radiologists and cardiologists often use iodinated contrast during CT
scans and other procedures for better imaging. Since shellfish contain
iodine, many physicians have linked a contrast reaction to a shellfish
allergy. However, this is false, and a <a href="http://www.acaai.org/allergist/allergies/Types/food-allergies/types/Pages/shellfish-allergy.aspx">shellfish allergy</a> has nothing to do with the reaction. In fact, iodine is not and cannot be an allergen as it found in the human body.</li>
<li><strong>I Can’t have Bread, I’m Allergic to Gluten –</strong> You
can have a gluten intolerance, but it’s extremely rare to have a true
allergy. Most allergic reactions to these foods stem from wheat. Many
people self-label as having gluten allergy and avoid gluten without any
medical indication. </li>
</ol>
With information being widespread online via social media portals, how do you know what to believe and what not to believe?<br /><br />
“If you think you may have an allergy, you should see a board-certified
allergist for proper evaluation, testing, diagnosis and treatment,” said
Dr. Stukus. “Misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment can be
dangerous.”<br /><br />
The ACAAI Annual Meeting is being held Nov. 7-11 at the Baltimore
Convention Center in Baltimore. For more news and research being
presented at the meeting, follow the conversation on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23ACAAI&src=hash">#ACAAI</a>.Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-79105813979820482322013-10-31T09:59:00.001-04:002013-10-31T09:59:32.426-04:00It's been too long since I posted, so this is to let you know that I am starting up again!<br />
There's a lot of news in the allergy world, with the upcoming launch of the first steroid nose spray available over the counter in the U.S. and interesting research findings that I will share with you.<br />
The leaves are falling, but there's still mold and ragweed in the air. This should go after the first heavy frost- but I hope this won't happen too soon!Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-30850345351228473162011-09-19T10:37:00.000-04:002011-09-19T10:37:00.672-04:00The pollen estimate for this week<table align="center" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" style="width: 520px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="color: #5c5b5b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; line-height: 12px; text-align: right;" width="520">Customized for SOMERVILLE, NJ 08876, September 19, 2011. Courtesy of the Makers of ZYRTEC®. </td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;" width="520"> <table style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-size: 11px; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-align: center; width: 518px;"><tbody>
<tr> <td colspan="2" style="background-color: #c9e8c9; border: 1px solid #cccccc; color: #00953a; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0; padding: 2px 7px 5px 7px; text-align: left;"> Local Allergy Levels* </td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="background-color: white; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-size: 11px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 130px;"> <img alt="Pollen Chart Range" src="http://www.zyrtecprofessional.com/images/wao/wao_chart_range_v2.gif" /> </td> <td style="font-size: 11px; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> <img alt="Pollen Chart for SOMERVILLE, NJ" src="http://www.zyrtecprofessional.com/wao-chart.html?zip=08876&width=387&height=134&mode=email" /> </td> </tr>
</tbody> </table><div><img alt="" border="0" height="8" src="http://www.zyrtecprofessional.com/images/wao/spacer.gif" style="display: block;" width="1" /></div><div style="color: #5c5b5b; font-size: 11px;">Predominant Pollen: Ragweed, Chenopods and Grass.</div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td width="520"> <div><img alt="" border="0" height="7" src="http://www.zyrtecprofessional.com/images/wao/spacer.gif" style="display: block;" width="1" /></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><table style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-size: 11px; margin-top: 5px; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-align: center; width: 518px;"><tbody>
<tr> <td colspan="4" style="background-color: #c9e8c9; border: 1px solid #cccccc; color: #00953a; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0; padding: 2px 7px 5px 7px; text-align: left;"> Weather Forecast* </td> </tr>
<tr> <td valign="top"> <div style="text-align: center;"> <div style="color: black; font-weight: bold;">Today</div><div style="color: #333333;">September 19</div><div style="padding: 10px 0;"><img alt="c" height="36" src="http://www.zyrtecprofessional.com/images/wao/icons/c.jpg" width="70" /></div><div style="color: #333333; font-weight: normal;">Cloudy</div><div style="color: black; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold;">70°</div><div style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold;">42°</div></div></td> <td valign="top"> <div style="text-align: center;"> <div style="color: black; font-weight: bold;">Tuesday</div><div style="color: #333333;">September 20</div><div style="padding: 10px 0;"><img alt="c" height="36" src="http://www.zyrtecprofessional.com/images/wao/icons/c.jpg" width="70" /></div><div style="color: #333333; font-weight: normal;">Cloudy</div><div style="color: black; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold;">69°</div><div style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold;">55°</div></div></td> <td valign="top"> <div style="text-align: center;"> <div style="color: black; font-weight: bold;">Wednesday</div><div style="color: #333333;">September 21</div><div style="padding: 10px 0;"><img alt="c" height="36" src="http://www.zyrtecprofessional.com/images/wao/icons/c.jpg" width="70" /></div><div style="color: #333333; font-weight: normal;">Cloudy</div><div style="color: black; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold;">73°</div><div style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold;">55°</div></div></td> <td valign="top"> <div style="text-align: center;"> <div style="color: black; font-weight: bold;">Thursday</div><div style="color: #333333;">September 22</div><div style="padding: 10px 0;"><img alt="c" height="36" src="http://www.zyrtecprofessional.com/images/wao/icons/c.jpg" width="70" /></div><div style="color: #333333; font-weight: normal;">Cloudy</div><div style="color: black; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold;">70°</div><div style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold;">70°</div></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-80426829184946367112010-12-21T16:17:00.000-05:002010-12-21T16:17:25.933-05:00Advice for Treating Common Colds<h1 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.75em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.5em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #5a4d3c; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 1.25;">From the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine</span></span></h1><h1 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #5a4d3c; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 1.3em; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.25; margin-bottom: 0.75em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.5em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">Director's Page<br />
<span class="translation" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 0.9em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">Josephine P. Briggs, M.D.</span></h1><h2 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #1e2f2f; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 1.1em; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.25; margin-bottom: 0.25em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">Echinacea—What Have We Learned and Where Are We Going?</h2><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"><em style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">December 20, 2010</em></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">Everyone gets colds. Doctors' offices are packed with patients seeking relief from symptoms or looking to treat occasional more serious complications. There are also countless home remedies, and store shelves are filled with over the counter medicines and herbal supplements. Among the latter is echinacea—a popular herbal supplement made from the stems, leaves, or roots of the purple coneflower.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">As we head into the cold and flu season, it's not surprising that the press has given a lot of attention to the <a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/122010.htm" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #005ca0; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">NCCAM-funded study by Barrett et al.</a> in the <cite style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">Annals of Internal Medicine</cite>. Although the authors noted that there were small trends in the direction of a benefit from echinacea—an average half-day reduction in duration, or an approximate 10 percent decrease in severity—they concluded that this dose and formulation of echinacea does not significantly change the course of the common cold.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">These results and conclusions are consistent with a large body of previous clinical research. That studies of herbals are often not definitively positive or negative is a challenge that we are attempting to address as a major theme of our upcoming strategic plan (to be released in early 2011): the need for basic and translational research on natural products. In particular, the plan calls for better understanding of biological effects and the development of biomarkers or other translational tools prior to the initiation of lengthy, complex, and expensive clinical trials. With such knowledge and tools it will be possible to design clinical studies that test mechanistic hypotheses at the same time that we study clinical outcomes. For example, inclusion of biomarkers derived from basic and translational research would greatly increase insight, particularly into "negative" or equivocal studies.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">For now, the best advice for treating the common cold is to stay home, get plenty of rest, and drink lots of fluids.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><br />
</div>Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-26381406099612321202010-08-16T08:39:00.000-04:002010-08-16T08:39:10.890-04:00Allergists Offer Ragweed Survival Guide<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #008c9a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;"></span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #008c9a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;"><table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="ecxcontent_LETTER.BLOCK26" style="line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><tbody style="line-height: 17px;">
<tr style="line-height: 17px;"><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="background-color: white; color: #008c9a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 20px;" width="99%"><span style="color: black; line-height: normal;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black; line-height: normal;"><div style="line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: normal;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: normal;"><div style="line-height: 17px;"><span style="color: #008c9a; font-size: 12pt; line-height: normal;"><strong style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;">Allergists Offer Ragweed Survival Guide</strong> </span><br />
<span style="color: #008c9a; font-size: 12pt; line-height: normal;"><div style="line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: normal;">The start of back-to-school season also marks the start of ragweed misery for one in five Americans. Find relief from the sneezing, stuffy nose and watery eyes caused by this pesky weed. Follow these tips from the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI):</span><br style="line-height: 20px;" /><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: normal;"> </span><br style="line-height: 20px;" /><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: normal;">Start taking allergy medications in early August. </span><br style="line-height: 20px;" /><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: normal;">Get treated for pet allergies year-round to make ragweed allergies more </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: normal;"><div style="line-height: 17px;"> tolerable. New research suggests allergies to dogs, cats or dust mites </div><div style="line-height: 17px;"> "prime" the system, making hay fever suffering even worse. </div><div style="line-height: 17px;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: normal;">Stay inside between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. If you must be outside, wear a </span></span></div></span></span></div></span><br />
<div style="line-height: 17px;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: normal;"> <span style="color: #333333; line-height: normal;">National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)-approved</span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: normal;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: normal;"><div style="line-height: 17px;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: normal;"> N95 respirator mask. <br style="line-height: 17px;" />Protect your eyes with glasses or sunglasses that fit close to your face. <br style="line-height: 17px;" /> Steer clear of air pollutants.</span></div></span></div><div style="line-height: 17px;"></div></div></span></span></div></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table></span></b></span></span>Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-71398906074618124262010-06-03T09:55:00.000-04:002010-06-03T09:55:47.092-04:00Back to BasicsIt looks like Summer is here! It's hot and humid and everything is green. There are 4 basics of successful allergy management which I share with every patient. One is often overlooked. Can you guess which one?<br />
1. Avoidance - if you know what you are allergic to, and can reasonably avoid it, then cut your exposure.<br />
2. If you get an allergeen in your nose, eyes or skin - wash it out (or off!).<br />
3. Take your allergy medicine as directed.<br />
4. Allergy shots (immunotherapy) can build up your immunity so your allergy symptoms last for a shorter period of time and you may need less allergy medicine.<br />
<br />
If you guessed (2), you are right!<br />
<br />
Often overlooked, but can make a big difference. If your eyes are itchy and burning, use a long-lasting lubricant eye drop which does not contain any drugs. I have several good recommendations for my patients.<br />
If your nose is itchy, and you are sneezing a lot, use saline nasal spray or a NetiPot to wash all the bad stuff out!Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-81598822430862606422010-05-10T09:18:00.000-04:002010-05-10T09:18:52.009-04:00Whare are you? Whare am I?It's been a while since I've posted. That's mainly because I don't want to post for the sake of posting! Forgive the rant! It's Monday morning at 9am and my 9am patient has not shown up! During the past weeks I've had so many prospective patients take the first and last slot of the day, and then not show up. If you can't make your appointment or change your plans just simply call. You will be doing a great favor not only to me but to the other patients who can only come in before or after work.Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-21259320305536529382010-03-15T12:35:00.000-04:002010-03-15T12:35:12.668-04:00Pet Allergies and Travel Again<h1>Question of the Week from AAAAI</h1><div class="smallest">Posted 3/15/2010</div><strong>How do I prepare for plane travel if I have allergies to pets?</strong><br />
<br />
Cats and dogs are allowed in plane cabins which for some people may cause allergy symptoms, such as itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, wheezing and hives. If you are extremely sensitive to pets, you must have a plan in place, which often may include pre-treatment of your allergy and asthma condition by your allergist. Even when you have tolerated an allergen such as from a cat and/or dog, a subsequent exposure may provoke an asthma attack or a more severe allergic reaction, at that time. <br />
<br />
Flying with pets has caused enough of a concern that in an editorial by the Canadian Medical Association Journal, a complete ban of pets on planes was recommended. The Canadian lung association also reported that more than three-quarters of those polled in a survey wished that airlines offered pet-free flights. <br />
<br />
It is essential to have the proper prescribed medications on hand in your carry-on if you suffer from pet allergies, especially if you find yourself soaring at 30,000 feet with pets on your flight!<br />
<br />
Please talk to me about this if it is a concern for you.Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-39582975516773040202010-03-11T20:42:00.000-05:002010-03-11T20:42:12.543-05:00Eczema in Early Childhood May Influence Mental Health Later<h1 class="story" id="headline">Eczema in Early Childhood May Influence Mental Health Later</h1><div id="first"><span class="date">ScienceDaily (Feb. 10, 2010)</span> — Eczema in early childhood may influence behavior and mental health later in life. This is a key finding of a prospective birth cohort study to which scientists of Helmholtz Zentrum München contributed. In cooperation with colleagues of Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU), Technische Universität München (TUM) and Marien-Hospital in Wesel, North Rhine-Westphalia this study followed 5,991 children who were born between 1995 and 1998.</div><div id="seealso"> <hr /><a class="blue" href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/articles/h/hay_fever.htm"></a></div>The study has been published in the current issue of the<em> Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology</em>.<br />
Researchers, led by Assistant Professor Jochen Schmitt of Dresden University Hospital, Dr. Christian Apfelbacher (Heidelberg University Hospital) and Dr. Joachim Heinrich of the Institute of Epidemiology of Helmholtz Zentrum München, discovered that children who suffered from eczema during the first two years of life were more likely to demonstrate psychological abnormalities, in particular emotional problems, at age ten years than children of the same age who had not suffered from the disease. "This indicates that eczema can precede and lead to behavioral and psychological problems in children," Dr. Heinrich explained.<br />
Children whose eczema persisted beyond the first two years of life were more likely to have mental health problems than children who had eczema only in infancy.<br />
Within the framework of the GINIplus study, scientists tracked the family history of the children, collected data on their physical health and emotional condition at age 10 years and gathered information on their daily lives. Questions were asked about the course of disease -- also in early childhood -- with special focus on diseases such as eczema, asthma, allergic rhinitis, stress tolerance and behavioral abnormalities.<br />
Eczema is a non-infectious skin disease characterized by scaling itchy skin rashes. It is the most common skin disease in children and adolescents. Children who suffer from eczema are known to have an increased predisposition for hay fever and allergic asthma. Eczema symptoms are accompanied by a broad spectrum of secondary symptoms, such as sleep disorders.<br />
"We suspect that it is mainly the secondary symptoms that have a long-term effect on the emotions of the affected children," Joachim Heinrich said. The authors of the study therefore recommend documenting the occurrence of eczema as potential risk factor for later psychological problems in the children's medical records, even if the actual primary disease abates and disappears during the course of childhood.Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-50496467842330452252010-03-11T20:38:00.000-05:002010-03-11T20:38:46.787-05:00ConnectionsHave you ever thought what it must be like to pump gas all day long? Apart from inhaling fumes constantly, the only conversation is "Fill with regular" or "$20 of premium"...and so on. Compare this to a visit to the barber (or hairdresser) where we try to fill the void with small talk. So now that I use the same gas station every time, I try to greet the attendant with a smile and hello and try to make some conversation beyond the needs of my gas tank. To date reward is a big smile and "my" attendant who hurries over to serve me each time I fill up.Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-90583341071706279672010-03-08T08:53:00.000-05:002010-03-08T08:53:09.538-05:00Back Again!It's been a while since I have posted. first, the Winter is generally quiet on the allergy scene, and there has not not been much news. Second, I follow the readership statistics and I am only seeing a few readers, so I am thinking about changing the focus of this blog to add more short comments on new drug developments, the passing scene and life in general. If you can give me feedback, I would love to know what you would like to see in this blog that you don't find somewhere else.Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-18151689282092983752010-02-07T22:30:00.000-05:002010-02-07T22:30:33.518-05:00Scratching the Surface<h1 style="color: #037ebe;"><span style="font-size: small;">From the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Allergy:</span></h1><h1 style="color: #037ebe;">Scratching the surface on skin allergies</h1><div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.aaaai.org/patients/elements/2010/02/images/pic1.jpg" /></div>Do you often suffer from red, bumpy, scaly, itchy, inflamed/blistered or swollen skin? Dry skin, sunburn or an insect bite may be the cause. Or, you may have a skin allergy. The most common skin allergies include eczema, hives/angioedema and contact dermatitis.<br />
<strong>Eczema</strong><br />
Eczema usually affects the face, elbows and knees. The red, scaly, itchy rash is more common in infants and those who have a history of allergies or asthma. Older children and adults with eczema often experience rashes on the knees or elbows (often in the folds of the joints), on the backs of hands or on the scalp.<br />
Triggers include allergens, overheating or sweating, emotional stress, food and contact with irritants such as wool, pets or soaps.<br />
Preventing the itch is the main treatment goal. Applying cold compresses and topical steroid and calcineurin inhibitor creams are the most effective. Antihistamines are often recommended to help relieve the itchiness. In severe cases, oral steroids are prescribed. <br />
<strong>Hives and Angioedema</strong><br />
Hives are red, itchy, raised areas which may be triggered by food, latex or drug allergies. Hives can also result from non-allergic sources like rubbing of the skin, cold, heat, physical exertion or exercise, pressure and sunlight. Hives usually go away within a few days. Chronic hives can linger for months to years.<br />
Angioedema is a swelling of the deeper skin layers that sometimes occurs with hives. Angioedema appears on the eyelids, lips, tongue, hands and feet and is typically not red or itchy-just swollen. <br />
The allergens that trigger hives may take days to leave the body, so an allergist/immunologist may prescribe antihistamines or in severe cases, steroids. Other tips for symptom relief are cool showers, applying a cool compress or wearing loose/light clothing.<br />
<strong>Contact Dermatitis</strong><br />
Contact dermatitis is often more painful than itchy. It is characterized by an itchy, red, blistered reaction from poison ivy, nickel, perfumes, dyes, latex products or cosmetics. Some ingredients in medications can cause a reaction, most commonly neomycin, an ingredient in antibiotic creams.<br />
Allergic contact dermatitis reactions can happen 24 to 48 hours after contact. Once a reaction starts, it takes 14 to 28 days to go away, even with treatment.<br />
Contact dermatitis can be treated by scrubbing the skin with soap and water after exposure and using prescribed antihistamine and cortisone medications. Calamine lotion, oatmeal baths/milk soaks and cool compresses can offer relief.<br />
<div class="quote"> <span class="heading2" style="color: #037ebe;">DID YOU KNOW?</span><br />
<ul><li>About 27% of children who have food allergies also have eczema or skin allergies.</li>
<li>Contact dermatitis leads to approximately 5.7 million doctor visits each year.</li>
<li>More than 3,700 substances have been identified as contact allergens.</li>
</ul></div><h2 style="color: #134f5c;">To the Point</h2>Skin allergies are painful and unpleasant but an allergist/immunologist can relieve symptoms and possibly control them.Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-11751842753555356302010-01-13T15:10:00.000-05:002010-01-13T15:10:05.654-05:00Are you allergic to cockroach?<span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><em><strong>Banish cockroaches<br />
<br />
</strong></em>A protein in cockroach droppings triggers symptoms. Clean practices can help.<br />
<ul type="disc"><li>Vacuum or sweep the floor after meals.</li>
<li>Take garbage and recyclables out frequently.</li>
<li>Keep food in containers with tight lids.</li>
<li>Wash dishes right after use with hot, soapy water.</li>
<li>Clean under stoves, refrigerators or toasters where loose crumbs can hide.</li>
<li>Clean stove tops, surfaces and cupboards regularly.</li>
<li>Block areas where roaches can enter, such as</li>
<li> <ul type="circle"><li>Crevices</li>
<li>Wall cracks</li>
<li>Floor gaps</li>
<li>Cellar and outside doors</li>
<li>Drains</li>
</ul></li>
</ul></span>Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-16916234377875146462010-01-13T15:05:00.000-05:002010-01-13T15:05:48.742-05:00Air Canada ordered to create nut-free zonesOTTAWA — The country's largest airline has been ordered to create a nut-free zone on flights to accommodate passengers with serious nut allergies.<br />
<br />
The government agency overseeing airline consumer complaints on Thursday gave Air Canada 30 days to come up with a plan to create a "buffer zone" for each aircraft type when passengers with nut allergies warn them ahead of time.<br />
<br />
In addition to proposing the size of the zone, Air Canada must also tell the Canadian Transportation Agency what it deems adequate advance notice to institute the specified nut-free area in the cabin.<br />
<br />
The agency issued the directive in response to applications by two passengers, who argued that Air Canada lacked a formal policy to deal with travellers with peanut or nut allergies.<br />
<br />
The agency ruled that the passengers in question, Sophia Huyer and Melanie Nugent, are considered persons with a disability, so the airline must lift any obstacles to their mobility through a formal policy.<br />
<br />
The decision, however, provides Air Canada with an out.<br />
<br />
The airline can suggest another option to accommodate passengers with nut allergies if buffer zones constitute an "undue hardship, such as significantly affecting the commercial viability of its service."<br />
<br />
But any proposed policy will have to be reviewed and approved by the agency, it said in a statement Thursday.<br />
<br />
Air Canada spokesman Peter Fitzpatrick said the airline is reviewing the newly released decision, and will have more to say later.<br />
<br />
"We are now studying the ruling and its conclusions and we will respond with a submission within the time frame set out by the agency," he said in a statement Thursday.<br />
<br />
Gwen Smith, editor-in-chief of Canadian magazine Allergic Living, spearheaded a campaign to get Air Canada to develop clear policies on allergies to minimize the risk of inflight allergic reactions.<br />
<br />
Smith said Thursday she's pleased the agency has laid out a formal policy to reduce that risk after the letter-writing campaign didn't move Air Canada to act on its own.<br />
<br />
"We need some formal policies. It really is risky. We found studies showing that up to one in 10 people with nut and peanut allergies were having reactions on flights, so this is significant," said Smith.<br />
<br />
She just hopes the public "doesn't confuse" this decision with the debate swirling around newly instituted security-related measures and inconveniences placed on airline travellers.<br />
<br />
"What people need to know is that this is not over the top. There are real reasons when you're 35,000 feet in the air and you have the kind of medical condition that can come on incredibly rapidly, this is sort of akin to somebody having a heart attack, and in fact that can be a symptom of anaphylaxis," said Smith.<br />
<br />
Air Canada does not serve peanuts on any flights, but it does serve other nut snacks. Almonds and cashews can also be purchased from its On Board Cafe.<br />
<br />
During the proceedings, the airline argued that it would be impossible to guarantee that meals served on flights are free of peanuts or other foods to which a person may be allergic; some meals are prepared by sub-suppliers, Air Canada pointed out.<br />
<br />
Besides, the airline can't be responsible for passengers who may bring peanuts or other nut products on board, Air Canada argued.<br />
<br />
In its decision, the agency says it recognizes that "for operational reasons," it may not always be possible to provide a buffer zone when a passenger does not provide advance notice.<br />
<br />
In such instances when advance notice is not provided, and where Air Canada is unable to institute a nut-free zone at the last minute, the airline could place the passenger on the next practicable flight to give it time to institute a buffer zone, the decision states.<br />
<br />
I wonder when airlines will create dust-free zones ... and noise-free zones... and mold-free zones.........Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-32874197908455701452010-01-05T09:35:00.000-05:002010-01-05T09:35:28.538-05:00More on Cat AllergyWhy are cats so allergic? One reason is that we get closer to cats than to other furry pets. That's why I ask how many cats you have. The record so far is 14. Can you beat that? I then ask if the cat comes into your bedroom. Does the cat jump on the bed? Does the cat sleep on your pillow? If you cannot bear to dismiss Mr. Whiskers from your bedroom, then change the bedlinen frequently, and wash your bed linen at a high temperature often so remove the cat protein.Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-53880489048656035432010-01-05T09:30:00.000-05:002010-01-05T09:30:45.058-05:00Winter Reflections and To Do ListHappy New Year! It's cold out and the pollen counts are down to virtually zero. In fact many pollen counting sites shut down until the spring. So it's actually a good time to think about planning for the upcoming Spring and Summer. If you were thinking of starting on allergy shots, please remember that it will take a while for you to build up the dosage to the final maintenance dose, so starting now would give you a head start and the prospect of significant relief by the Summer. Also, all the environmental control measures that I talk about for dust and mold take a while to deliver their maximal benefit, so there's no day like to today to start! When you spend time indoors with the heating on, your environment is often drier than at other times of year. Low humidity is a common reason for nasal symptoms, so you might want to check the humidity in your house by buying an inexpensive hygrometer.Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-67760195557496899042009-12-29T11:00:00.001-05:002009-12-29T11:02:20.022-05:00Your New Year's Celebration can cause more than a Hangover<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<h3 style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Press release from the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology </span><br />
</span></h3><h3 align="center" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></h3><h3 style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></h3><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">MILWAUKEE – Toasting the New Year is a tradition that can cause more than a headache the next day. For some people, drinking may also trigger allergy and asthma symptoms, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI). “It is usually not the alcohol itself that produces the reaction. It is most likely ingredients, such as sulfur dioxide (metabisulfite), yeast and additives,” according to Clifford W. Bassett, MD, FAAAAI, Chair of the Public Education Committee of the AAAAI.</span><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The key preservative in wine is sulfur dioxide. It is naturally produced by wine yeast in small quantities during fermentation. Sulfur dioxide is also used as a preservative in foods such as dried fruits, baked goods, condiments, canned foods, shellfish, frozen shrimp, canned tomatoes, frozen potatoes and fruit juices. If you tend to have a reaction to these foods, you may also experience it with wine.</span><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Histamine can be another culprit. Bacteria and yeast in the alcohol generate it. Histamine is naturally released by the body during an allergic reaction so even if you don’t have an actual allergy, drinking alcoholic beverages may cause a runny or stuffy nose, itchy, runny eyes or worsening of asthma symptoms. Red wines often have a larger amount of histamines than white wines.</span><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you think you are allergic to beer, it is most likely the barley, corn, wheat or rye in beer that may cause similar allergic reactions.</span><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you suffer from allergies or asthma, visit <a href="http://www.aaaai.org/" title="http://www.aaaai.org/">www.aaaai.org</a> for more tips and information that can help you have a happy, healthy new year.</span><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The AAAAI (<a href="http://www.aaaai.org/">www.aaaai.org</a>) represents allergists, asthma specialists, clinical immunologists, allied health professionals and others with a special interest in the research and treatment of allergic and immunologic diseases. Established in 1943, the AAAAI has nearly 6,500 members in the United States, Canada and 60 other countries. To locate an allergist/immunologist, visit the AAAAI Physician Referral Directory at <a href="http://www.aaaai.org/physref/">www.aaaai.org/physref</a>.</span><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dr. Druce is a Fellow of the Academy and member of the Rhinosinusitis Committee.<br />
</span><br />
</div>Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-20244794456733579752009-12-28T19:42:00.000-05:002009-12-28T19:42:09.363-05:00Coping with Allergies During the Holidays<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">For asthma and allergy patients, the holidays present a variety of challenges to maintaining good health. Enjoying the holidays is easier when you plan ahead so you can look back on this special time with joy. These tips are from the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><ul style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><li><span style="font-size: small;">Clean your chimney before the first holiday fire<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>Check fireplace vents and secure fireplace doors to reduce smoke entering the room<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>Use doors instead of screens<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>Decorations stored since last year can become coated with dust and mold<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>Thoroughly clean and dry all decor, seal in plastic bags, and store in airtight containers<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>If you are sensitive to dust or mold, wear a face mask while unpacking and decorating<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>Clean and replace filters in your furnace before turning on the heat<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>Use a filter over vents to catch dust particles<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>Clean or replace filters in any portable air cleaners<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>Run units at the highest setting during winter months<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>Check humidity levels in rooms where you spend most of your time<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>Keep humidity below 50%, as long as you are comfortable and allergy symptoms are minimal<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>Limit use of air fresheners such as candles, oils and potpourri<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you bring a live tree into your home, use the following guidelines to help reduce problems:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
</div><ul style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;">Thoroughly wipe the trunk with a solution of lukewarm water and diluted bleach (1 part bleach/ 20 parts water) to kill mold.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;">Use a leaf blower (away from the house or garage) to remove pollen grains.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;">Artificial trees are great substitutes as long as they are not coated with sprayed-on "snow."<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Outdoor allergens can also be potential triggers for asthma and allergies. Here are some suggestions for preparing your<i> </i>home and family for the holidays:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
</div><ul style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;">Remove wet dirt and leaves from the foundation and gutters to prevent mold growth near windows and doors<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stack firewood outside, bringing in new logs only for immediate use in your fireplace.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;">Wear protective clothing when exposure to mold is likely (gloves, long sleeves, pants, face mask, etc.)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">While outdoors, wear a scarf over your face to warm winter winds that enter your lungs. If this is inadequate, consider a warming mask - available at most medical supply stores <br />
</span></span></li>
</ul>Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-6411337827688107652009-12-24T11:45:00.000-05:002009-12-24T11:45:05.588-05:00Happy HolidaysIt's quiet here in the office, and we will be closing until next week, when we will be open every day. Have a safe and joyous holiday!Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-60055266951335329592009-12-16T10:21:00.001-05:002009-12-16T10:21:03.895-05:00Nickel Allergy from your Ring?Yesterday, there was an interesting article in the Wall Street journal on nickel allergy. Check it out at www.wsj.com<br />
<br />
Nickel allergies have been on the rise in North America in recent years and now affect 24% to 36% of women and<br />
7% to 15% of men, according to the North American Contact Dermatitis Group, which named nickel the 2008 "Allergen of the Year." Women are more likely to have pierced ears, which can facilitate a sensitivity to nickel if earrings containing the metal contact broken skin. But men are closing the gap due to the popularity of body piercing.<br />
<br />
As with other allergies, a reaction to nickel can develop seemingly out of the blue, even years after a person's first exposure. Once the allergy is triggered, it will persist lifelong. A reaction to a particular piece of jewelry may occur suddenly because nickel salts tend to come to the surface years later, or after protective coating has worn away. "You get more exposure to nickel the older the piece of jewelry is," says Jeffrey Benabio, a dermatologist with Kaiser Permanente in San Diego. "That's why you can wear a ring for 20 years and suddenly it starts<br />
causing problems."Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-32913594563616325422009-12-07T15:02:00.000-05:002009-12-07T15:02:00.424-05:00More from Mr. Whiskers.....<strong>Question of the week from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Imunology website:</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>My Allergist tells me I am allergic to dogs and cats, but I have both at home and do not notice any increased symptoms there. Why is that?</strong><br />
<br />
Pets, particularly dogs and cats, tend to cause a lot of allergies. The pet allergens are found in the dander, urine and the saliva. Typical symptoms of hay fever include sneeze, runny nose, nasal congestion and itchy watery eyes. Asthma symptoms from allergens include wheeze, cough, shortness of breath and chest tightness. These symptoms are called the “early phase” of an allergic reaction. <br />
<br />
Several hours later the “late phase” of an allergic reaction may occur, with increased inflammation in the nose for hay fever and in the lungs for asthma. Hay fever symptoms in the late phase may be more nasal congestion and drainage. Asthma symptoms in the late phase reaction may be more mucous production and chest tightness. <br />
<br />
When a pet owner is exposed to a cat and/or dog on an ongoing basis, they may have an ongoing late phase reaction. While these symptoms may be more subtle, they are still important and should be taken seriously. Your Allergist will likely discuss avoidance measures with you, may prescribe medicines and may consider allergy shots, or immunotherapy. Just because you don’t notice increased symptoms around your pets, don’t be fooled into thinking they are not causing problems for you. Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-51438329740481778412009-12-01T15:17:00.000-05:002009-12-01T15:17:14.150-05:00It's Lonely Out HereI have been writing this blog for a few months and would welcome ideas on how to make it more useful and feedback in general. Please feel free to leave comments at drdruce@entcarepc.com. I am currently posting about one new item a week.Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-22881712888274163432009-11-25T10:01:00.000-05:002009-11-25T10:01:09.286-05:00Happy ThanksgivingIt's holiday time again - the last thing you want to think about is allergy. So here is another picture of Eartha, our yellow lab. The most allergenic dog in town! Happy holidays!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiDxdNL0m-DwUjAaQb4oSqv2NYf-j_j6S0_MRY_oFglhJTZw-tyUndJzZoy3fupXcjpr6kCY-O9ZiX63C5LeGkOaTnEWVM02CO2Y5ARQSRcLYJB0yqLSrWdt_nC7HOazzcnqMUMHETZUc/s1600/IMG_0316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiDxdNL0m-DwUjAaQb4oSqv2NYf-j_j6S0_MRY_oFglhJTZw-tyUndJzZoy3fupXcjpr6kCY-O9ZiX63C5LeGkOaTnEWVM02CO2Y5ARQSRcLYJB0yqLSrWdt_nC7HOazzcnqMUMHETZUc/s320/IMG_0316.JPG" /></a><br />
</div>Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4029783664078346992.post-88802717785900610982009-11-17T14:26:00.000-05:002009-11-17T14:26:56.232-05:00Asthma: life-style choices?I gave a lecture to the local hospital family practice residents this morning about asthma. Some thoughts come to mind. It's a shame that most asthma medications are not in the $4 or $10 prescription plans. If we were still recommending theophylline, they probably still would be. So with the cost so high it's really important to ensure that our patients are really using their medications. There are always choices, so I want to be able to help patients by advising which triggers to manage - whether allergic or physical e.g cold air or exercise. Then provide medication choice and schedule that is realistic. We have some new diagnostic and management tools that help keep asthma under control, and can minimize the amount of drugs that are needed when possible. Also, smoking and asthma definitely do not mix.Dr. Howard Drucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08466807079178574530noreply@blogger.com0