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What is Eosinophilic Asthma?

There are different types of asthma. The most common type is allergic asthma where symptoms are triggered by exposure to specific allergens like dust, pet dander, pollen and mold. Another type is eosinophilic asthma, sometimes called e-asthma.

Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that helps fight off parasitic infections and cancers. They also play a role in allergic reactions. They make up a small fraction of our white blood cells, and the number of eosinophils in our blood can vary over time. If the number of eosinophils in your bloodstream or organs is elevated, you may have an eosinophil-associated disease.

Many diseases are caused by an increased number of eosinophils in your body; one of the conditions that allergists treat is eosinophilic asthma.

What is Eosinophilic Asthma (e-asthma)?

Eosinophilic asthma is a subtype of asthma that is caused by high levels of eosinophils in the airways of the lungs. It usually starts in adulthood, although it can sometimes occur in children as well. E-asthma is a severe type of asthma and people who have high levels of eosinophils can have swelling in their airways, making it difficult to breathe.

Unfortunately, the cause of e-asthma remains unknown. However, those with e-asthma do not usually have underlying allergies that provoke asthma symptoms. Severe or uncontrolled asthma can have a significant impact on your health and quality of life. Fortunately, there are a number of ongoing clinical trials working to develop new treatments and therapies to control e-asthma symptoms.

Symptoms

Eosinophilic asthma has similar symptoms to classic asthma. However, the symptoms are more severe and constant. These include:

Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Coughing
Airflow obstruction
Chronic rhinitis with nasal polyps
Inflamed nasal mucous membrane

Diagnosis

If you have asthma and the symptoms are severe, your allergist may check levels of eosinophils by analyzing your blood, sputum, saliva, or conducting a bronchial biopsy (tiny forceps passed through a channel of the bronchoscope into your lungs). They will take a complete history of past and current symptoms and discuss any history of allergies.

Treatments

The goal when treating e-asthma is to reduce the eosinophils in the airways and control breathing. People with eosinophilic asthma may respond to standard guideline-based therapy which includes inhaled and/or oral corticosteroids. Others may not and need additional options. There are now new treatments that can reduce eosinophils by targeting specific cells. This type of asthma treatment is known as a biologic.

Biologic therapies that target eosinophils may be prescribed to treat eosinophilic asthma. Biologics that are currently approved for use in the U.S. include the following:

Benralizumab: antibody that binds Interleukin-5 (IL-5) receptors. 12 years and older
Dupilumab: Interleukin-4 (IL-4) and Interleukin-13 (IL-13) inhibitor and binds to the IL-4 alpha receptor. 6 years and older
Mepolizumab: an antibody that recognizes and blocks Interleukin-5 (IL-5). 6 years and older
Reslizumab: an antibody that recognizes and blocks Interleukin-5 (IL-5). 18 years and older

If you or someone you know suffers from severe or uncontrolled asthma, our board-certified providers are ready to help you find the right treatment to control your symptoms and improve your health. Call (210) 616-0882 to schedule your appointment today.

May 26, 2023/by Kayla Gomez

Allergies, English, Health

Palforzia – The First FDA Approved Treatment for Children with Peanut Allergy

In 2020, the FDA approved the first treatment for peanut allergy in children. AllergySA was the first clinic in San Antonio to introduce Palforzia. We were the second clinic in the nation to have a patient reach the maintenance phase in the program. Learn more about Palforzia:

What is Palforzia?

Palforzia is an oral treatment for children ages 4-17 with peanut allergies. Palforzia can reduce the risk of severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, that may occur with accidental exposure to peanuts. It is a defatted peanut protein powder that is carefully measured in capsules or a sachet, depending on the dosage.

PALFORZIA is not a cure for peanut allergy and is used in conjunction with a peanut avoidance diet. However, when taken according to instructions, it can reduce the likelihood of a severe reaction upon accidental exposure to peanuts.

PALFORZIA cannot be used for the emergency treatment of allergic reactions, and those who take it should continue to carry their injectable epinephrine devices.

How does Palforzia work?

There are three (3) phases of the PALFORZIA process: the initial dose escalation phase, up-dosing phase, and the maintenance phase. PALFORZIA is intended to gradually decrease your child’s sensitivity to small amounts of peanuts that may be hidden in foods.

How is Palforzia taken?

Palforzia is a powder product that is mixed in soft, room-temperature food such as pudding, applesauce, or yogurt. You open the capsule or sachet according to the schedule and put in your chosen food. Always wash your hands after handling PALFORZIA.

How effective is Palforzia?

Recent studies have shown that children with long-term daily dosing treatments have had the greatest strides in reaching maintenance in desensitization to their peanut allergy. After two years of taking Palforzia, more than 80% of children demonstrated desensitization to 2000 mg of peanut protein (which is equivalent to 6 peanut kernels).

What are the side effects?

Most side effects are mild and resolve within 40 minutes of taking Palforzia. The most commonly reported side effects are stomach pain/cramping and itching of the mouth or throat. These symptoms are usually mild and typically do not require intervention. More severe reactions include the risk of anaphylaxis and developing Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE). Speak with your ASA allergist about these risks.

Side effects may include:

Stomach pain
Vomiting
Feeling sick
Itching or burning in the mouth
Throat irritation
Cough
Runny rose
Sneezing
Itchy skin
Hives

How do I start my child on Palforzia?

All children must first be enrolled in the Palforzia Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy program (REMS). This is a safety program that manages the risk of anaphylaxis associated with Palforzia and is required by the FDA to ensure the benefits outweigh the risks.

If Palforzia is prescribed by your allergist for your child, they will send the prescription to a specialty pharmacy. If insurance eligible, the pharmacy will reach out to you to confirm the shipment details.

Patients with no insurance or with commercial insurance who have been denied coverage can be put in the Palforzia Pathway Patient Assistance Program and are eligible to receive Palforzia at no cost.

If you want to learn more about Palforzia and whether it is appropriate for your child, schedule an appointment with one of our food allergy experts at 210 616-0882.

May 16, 2023/by Kayla Gomez

Allergies, English

What to Expect this Spring Season

What to Expect this Spring Season

Spring 2023 is just around the corner, so if you are a spring allergy sufferer, the time to prepare is now! Here’s what you need to know:

Just as mountain cedar pollen abates in our area, the new growth and beauty of spring deliver another set of allergens that can cause more miserable allergy symptoms. Trees such as oak, hackberry, ash, and willow release their pollen as the temperatures warm. These tree pollens can be present from late February all the way to May.

Trees produce pollen for reproduction, and that pollen can be spread great distances by the wind. Warm, windy days can be especially challenging for those allergic to airborne pollen.

Pollen and other allergens play a role in many Texans’ lives during the springtime. What is in the air this time of the year, and what can you do to enjoy the great outdoors in the coming months? Learn more:

Common Texas tree pollens include:

Oak
Ash
Elm
Pecan
Cottonwood

Live oak pollen is especially challenging, and visible, during the spring season. The fine-yellow dust coats everything from cars and patios, to pets and people as well! This allergen is especially troublesome on warm, dry, windy days.

Those allergic to pollen experience moderate to severe symptoms that may include:

Sneezing
Watery, puffy, and itchy eyes
Stuffy nose
Coughing
Wheezing
Difficulty breathing

What can you do to avoid triggers and reduce symptoms?

If you want to be outside during the spring season, it is hard to avoid airborne allergens. However, there are ways to minimize symptoms caused by pollen:

Keep your car and house windows closed and run the air conditioner
Change your air filters regularly
Remove shoes and clothing when you get home
Bathe in the evenings to remove pollen from your hair and skin
Wear glasses/sunglasses when outside to keep pollen out of your eyes
Wipe down your pets’ paws and fur with a damp cloth after they have been outside
Clean bedding weekly, with hot water, to remove any allergens
Monitor the pollen counts in your area. You may need to adjust outdoor activities on high pollen days. Follow us on social media for daily pollen updates for San Antonio – Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
See a board-certified allergy expert for an accurate diagnosis and customized treatment plan for your specific allergens.

Treating for Your Spring Allergies

The first step in treating allergies is an accurate diagnosis. Allergy testing will identify your specific triggers, and your provider will develop a plan to reduce, or eliminate, your symptoms. Treatment plans may include:

–Over the Counter medications: OTC meds can be helpful for some sufferers. But remember, you must start them in advance of symptoms onset for the best results

–Prescription medications: This may include nasal corticosteroid sprays, antihistamines, and decongestants. Biologic therapies may be prescribed for those with difficult to control allergic asthma and some skin conditions.

–Allergy Immunotherapy, allergy shots, or allergy drops: This therapy works by giving gradually increasing doses of the allergen to which you are allergic. Over time, your immune system becomes less sensitive to the substance thereby reducing, or even eliminating, your symptoms. Immunotherapy is the closest thing to a cure for allergies.

Speak with one of AllergySA’s board-certified providers to diagnose your condition and develop a plan to treat your spring, or year-round, allergy symptoms. Call us today at (210) 616-0882.

March 3, 2023/by Kayla Gomez

Allergies, English, Health

Commit to Better Breathing in the New Year!

With the new year come new opportunities for health goals and resolutions. For allergy and asthma sufferers, it’s the perfect time to get the wheezing and sneezing under control and commit to better breathing in the coming year!

There are many benefits to seeing an allergist early in the year. Here are just a few allergy and asthma tips to help you enjoy a year with fewer symptoms and better health!

Tips for Allergy Sufferers:

Identify what is triggering your symptoms. Knowing what triggers your allergy symptoms is the only way to control them effectively. A board-certified allergist will take a complete history and perform testing that will definitively identify your specific allergies.
Make changes around your home to combat your seasonal allergies this winter. If you are perpetually stuffy, have itchy eyes, and have pressure in your head this time of the year, you might suffer from what is often called winter or indoor allergies. Because you are indoors more during the colder months (often with little ventilation), you are exposed to indoor allergens like mold, dust mites, and animal dander. A visit to an allergy expert will include a discussion on environmental control measures to help reduce your allergic reactions when inside.
Plan ahead for the spring pollen season. In Central Texas, we go from mountain cedar pollen season to the spring pollen season, where trees such as oak, elm, and ash release their pollen. If you are allergic to any of these pollens, you may experience symptoms from December through May, and that’s a long time to be miserable! Your allergist will advise you on what medications and when to start them to reduce the runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion that plague so many. For those with year-round or particularly bothersome seasonal allergies, your allergist might prescribe immunotherapy which can permanently modify your allergies, and in some cases, prevent allergy development.

Tips for Asthma Sufferers:

Identify your asthma triggers. Just like with allergies, knowing what triggers your symptoms is the first step in controlling your asthma. Be aware of the allergy/asthma connection. Approximately 80% of children and over 50% of adults have allergies that trigger their asthma symptoms. If you treat your allergies, you will help control your asthma.
Avoid smoke! Giving up cigarettes should top your list for overall health, and especially for healthier lungs. But beware of secondhand smoke as an asthma trigger. A recent study showed that children with asthma who are exposed to secondhand smoke had nearly double the risk of being hospitalized than children who aren’t exposed. Additionally, a fire in the hearth is wonderful this time of year – but that smoke can also cause an asthma exacerbation.
Beware of cold temperatures, especially during exercise. Try not to exercise in a cold room or outdoors during the winter season. Use your inhaler before exercise and during, if needed. Simply breathing cold, dry air will affect asthmatics. Keeping the humidity level in your home between 30 and 50 percent will help minimize asthma symptoms.
Take care of yourself. Viruses are more prevalent during winter and can trigger asthma symptoms. Wash your hands often, get plenty of rest, stay hydrated and avoid crowded/stuffy places when possible. Also, make sure you are current on vaccinations. Get your annual flu shot and COVID booster.
Manage stress. Emotional anxiety and stress can increase asthma symptoms and cause an attack.

Can an Allergist Help Me with Better Breathing?

Allergists are physicians specially trained to treat asthma. Studies have shown that compared to care by a general practitioner, asthma sufferers getting care from a board-certified allergist have fewer hospitalizations and emergency room visits, higher ratings for the quality of care, fewer restrictions in activities, and improved physical function.

Scheduling an Appointment with our San Antonio Allergists

As the largest allergy and asthma practice in San Antonio, our board-certified doctors and medical staff are experts at treating ailments in children and adults. Our team of medical professionals are committed to caring for patients with asthma, allergies, and immunology issues. We seek to improve the quality of life for our patients and their families by providing them with comprehensive medical services in a timely and caring manner.

Our allergy and asthma clinics in San Antonio provide an accurate diagnosis and customized treatment plans to help you breathe better and live better! We see patients at three area locations, Stone Oak, Medical Center, and Southside. Schedule an appointment today by calling 210-616-0882.

December 27, 2022/by Kayla Gomez

Allergies, English, Health

Allergy & Asthma Tips for a Happy Holiday Season

The holiday and winter season can be a tough time for individuals with allergies or asthma. From the cold weather to the holiday meals, it’s important for individuals with these conditions to be aware of potential risks they might face. Here are some tips to help you avoid seasonal triggers and holiday challenges.

Asthma

Avoid holiday air fresheners. Gingerbread, pumpkin, and pine scents can be inviting for some, yet hazardous for others. One-third of people with asthma report health problems from air fresheners which contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOC exposure can increase the risk of asthma in children. Holiday candles and other items that provide seasonal scents can also trigger allergic symptoms in some people.
A fire in the hearth is wonderful this time of the year, but smoke is a common trigger for those with asthma. You might have to mingle in another room — and as always — stay away from cigarette smoke.
Asthma can also be triggered by exposure to the cold/dry air of winter. Our increased exposure to viral infections during these winter months is an additional concern for asthmatics.

Seasonal and Environmental Allergies

Although some areas of the country experience a reprieve from seasonal pollen triggers in the winter months, here in Texas, we get to deal with Mountain Cedar tree pollen. Symptoms which include runny nose, congestion, itchy eyes, and cough, can impact those allergic to this tree’s pollen from late November through February. The male tree produces ‘puffs’ that look like pollen clouds and sometimes resemble smoke. Those with ‘Cedar Fever’ may also experience sore throat, headache, and fatigue, making this a miserable time of the year.
Christmas trees are often cited as the source of an allergy attack during the holidays. The mold that is associated with watering live trees and the chemicals sprayed on these trees are most likely culprits.
Tree sap contains terpene and other substances that can irritate skin and mucous membranes. Trees may also be harboring pollen from their time on the tree farm. If you choose a live tree, try blasting it with a leaf blower or rinse it and allow it to dry before bringing it inside. Wear long sleeves and gloves when handling the tree. Running an air purifier in the same room as the tree may also reduce your allergic symptoms.
Artificial trees and other decorations can still trigger symptoms due to the dust and mold they often collect. Remember to store artificial trees and other decorations in dry/airtight containers and wipe them down before storing them.
Poinsettias, a member of the rubber tree family, are everywhere this time of year. Although the risk of a severe reaction is low, it’s best to avoid direct contact with this plant if you have a latex allergy.
Fido and The Thanksgiving Effect. You may have become tolerant to your dog or cat, but if you go away for the holidays or are a college student returning home for the break, you may find yourself sneezing and wheezing. This is known as The Thanksgiving Effect. Speak with your allergist for ways to control these symptoms.

Food Allergies

The holiday season means dining away from home, parties, and special foods. The key to managing food allergies is to be certain what you are allergic to and communicating this information to others. Allergy skin prick testing and, when appropriate, an oral food challenge is the most accurate test for diagnosing a food allergy.

Always inquire about ingredients in foods, and never leave home without your injectable epinephrine (at any time of the year!)
Be careful at the holiday feast. Food allergens can show up in the strangest places — so be cautious when making your plate. You may be surprised to learn that even turkey can be tricky! Allergens in stuffing can be absorbed into the meat, so cook the bird unstuffed.
Consider a natural turkey that has no additives. Some self-basting brands can contain soy, wheat, and dairy.
If your child has a food allergy, volunteer to provide allergen-free snacks for school parties or holiday events to ensure there will be safe food available your child can enjoy. Remind your child to always ask if this food is “safe” for them as there is an abundance of new items around during this season.

Take Care of Yourself!

Get enough sleep, manage stress, and stay hydrated.
Always carry your allergy and asthma medications like antihistamines, inhalers, and epinephrine.
If traveling by plane, pack medications in your carry-on bag in the event your luggage does not arrive with you.
Wash your hands frequently to avoid illness, and make sure you are up to date on all vaccinations, including your annual flu shot. No one wants to be sick, especially this time of year!

Best wishes for a safe and symptom-free holiday season! Remember, we are here to help should you need us. Call us at (210) 616-0882.

November 9, 2022/by Kayla Gomez

Allergies, English, Health, Illness

Why You Should Get Your Flu Shot

New variants of the COVID-19 coronavirus, influenza, and other viruses will be circulating and spreading over the coming months. Flu and other viral infections can trigger asthma attacks and a worsening of asthma symptoms. Influenza also can lead to pneumonia and other acute respiratory diseases. Reports indicate that Australia is nearing the end of its worst flu season in five years. Flu season in Australia is often an indication of what’s to come in the U.S.

The best way to stay healthy this coming season is to be current on all vaccinations, including influenza and COVID-19.

Flu shots are available to AllergySA patients at all 3 locations. Although the influenza vaccine is recommended for most children and adults, it is especially important that our patients with asthma, chronic sinusitis, and immunodeficiency receive their yearly flu shot. Patients between the ages of 6 months and 65 years should visit their AllergySA office to receive the 2022/2023 influenza vaccine. (It is recommended that patients over the age of 65 receive the high-dose influenza vaccine, which AllergySA does not administer. Please visit your primary care physician or local pharmacy.)

No appointment is necessary; however, you should be a current patient. Flu shots can be given to most immunotherapy patients 20 minutes after receiving your allergy injection. Protection from the vaccine begins about two weeks after the injection and is thought to last for the influenza season.

Protect Your Community

Getting the flu vaccine, and being vaccinated against COVID, will protect not only you and your family, but also the community. Our healthcare systems, especially during the coming months, may become overwhelmed treating patients with flu, COVID-19, and other viruses. By getting vaccinated, we can hope to decrease the utilization of our healthcare system, preserving resources for those that need them most.

Stay Healthy!

If you have not been seen recently, now is a great time to schedule an appointment with your AllergySA provider. The better your baseline health going into this season, the better you will be able to fight any infections that come your way.

* Please note that some insurance plans may not cover the influenza vaccine if received in our office. You may prefer to visit your primary care practice for this year’s flu vaccine. Please check the coverage of your specific insurance plan. If your insurance does not cover it, and you receive the vaccine from AllergySA, you will be required to pay the out-of-pocket expense.

November 3, 2022/by Kayla Gomez

Allergies, English, Health

Eczema – The First Sign That Other Allergic Conditions May Follow

Researchers are continually learning more about the underlying causes and triggers of eczema. Even today, the root cause remains a bit of a mystery. Allergy experts believe that it’s related to one’s genetics (up to 70% of people with eczema report a family history of the condition), an immune system that is sensitive to irritants and allergens, and a defective skin barrier. The result is different in each patient but generally presents with patches of itchy, inflamed, or irritated skin. Eczema is a chronic disease that can last throughout your life with periods of ‘flares’ where symptoms are at their worst, but also long periods with no symptoms at all.

According to the National Eczema Association, 1 in 10 people will experience eczema at some point in their lives. Although often thought of as childhood disease, over 16 million adults in the U.S have atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Eczema:

Dry or scaly skin
Exaggerated redness
Flaking and cracking skin
Hyperpigmentation
Intense itching

Beyond the physical manifestations of eczema, this skin condition also impacts one’s lifestyle. According to The Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America, people with atopic dermatitis report lifestyle and activity limits, and avoidance of social interaction because of appearance. Sleep disturbance is also a commonly reported side effect of this condition.

The First Indicator May Come During Infancy

Particularly common in infants, symptoms of this often hereditary, non-contagious condition are frequently detected before a baby is one year old. The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology states that 10-20% of children may have eczema with 60 percent of those experiencing symptoms by age 1, and another 30 percent will experience symptoms by age 5.

The condition can be more severe for Black or Hispanic individuals and appears differently than in Caucasian skin. In general, children with a family history of allergic diseases such as asthma or other allergies (including hay fever) are most often at an increased risk for developing eczema.

Marching Forward with Other Allergic Conditions

Many children with eczema will see improvement in their skin by the time they are five or six years old. However, youngsters diagnosed with this condition are more likely to develop other allergic conditions later on. The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology explains this correlation further. Eczema is part of the ‘Allergic March’, also called the ‘Atopic March’. This begins with the diagnosis of eczema during infancy, later followed by food allergy, allergic rhinitis (also known as hay fever) and asthma, typically in that order. Studies show up to 80 percent of children with eczema develop asthma and/or allergic rhinitis later in childhood.

Diagnosing and Treating Eczema

If your skin condition is the result of an allergy, your allergist can diagnose and treat your condition, greatly improving your quality of life.

It is first important to identify the triggers and then control the symptoms. Triggers that can make eczema worse range from rough clothing to exposure to allergens such as foods, pollens, dust mites, and pet dander. Sweat, irritating products and even getting emotionally upset can also aggravate the symptoms. Your doctor will discuss ways to avoid your triggers and determine the best plan of treatment.

Treatment may include antihistamines and moisturizing ointments to relieve the itch and irritation. In recent years allergists have added several new tools for treating skin allergies including an ointment for mild to moderate atopic dermatitis and a biologic for moderate to severe AD. Your allergist will advise as to the best plan for you or your child.

Parents of infants diagnosed with eczema may need to be prepared for other allergies that will develop over their child’s lifetime. “Though teens and even adults can develop eczema,” says AllergySA allergist, Raul Villareal, M.D., “we can generally advise that if your baby is diagnosed with eczema, it’s a good idea to connect with an allergist to help monitor for other allergic developments later.”

If you’re noticing early signs of eczema and want to know more about its relationship to other allergies that may develop in the future, our allergy experts are here to help. Call (210) 616-0882 to schedule an evaluation.

October 27, 2022/by Kayla Gomez

Allergies, English, Health

Preparing for Mountain Cedar Season

With the change in weather also comes a change in the allergens that fill our air. Mountain cedar season is right around the corner, with pollen appearing as early as November. Mountain cedar grows naturally in this region and is considered to be the most allergenic tree in Central Texas. The male mountain cedar tree releases ‘puffs’ containing millions of pollen grains that then get carried by the wind. People allergic to this pollen typically find December, January, and February the most challenging months.

Common symptoms of “Cedar Fever” include sneezing, nasal blockage, runny nose, and itchy and watery eyes. Other symptoms can include fatigue, mild headache, sore throat, partial loss of smell, and the sensation of ear plugging.

According to Dr. Karkhanis, one of the board-certified physicians at AllergySA, the best way to beat cedar fever is to prepare in advance by following these steps:

GET TESTED BY A BOARD-CERTIFIED ALLERGIST: Visiting one of our board-certified providers for an allergy skin test is the best way to get a definitive answer as to what is causing your symptoms. An accurate diagnosis leads to a treatment plan designed to treat your specific allergens and bring you relief. So don’t guess, test!
START YOUR MEDICATIONS EARLY: After your skin test, your allergist will discuss a treatment plan that may include over-the-counter and/or prescription medications. It is recommended that you begin your medications several weeks prior to the start of the season. This will reduce your likelihood of experiencing those irritating cedar fever symptoms instead of trying to treat the symptoms after they have started. For some, allergy immunotherapy drops, or shots may be the best course of treatment for their specific allergic profile. This therapy works by giving gradually increasing doses of the allergen to which you are allergic. Over time, your immune system becomes less sensitive to the substance, thereby reducing, or even eliminating, your symptoms.

Once the mountain cedar season begins, it is also important to reduce your pollen exposure by taking the following actions:

Reduce pollen from entering your home by changing air filters regularly, keeping windows and doors closed, bathing pets often, and showering and changing clothes after being outdoors.
Reduce pollen exposure when outdoors by keeping car windows closed and decreasing your time spent outside on days when the pollen count is high.

If you believe you suffer from allergies caused by mountain cedar pollen, call Allergy SA at 210-616-0882 to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified allergists. Same-day appointments are available.

October 19, 2022/by allergysa

Allergies, English, Health, Illness

Are You Allergic to Penicillin, Really?

Unverified penicillin allergy is recognized as a significant public health problem. Up to 10 percent of the population report being allergic to penicillin, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, most of those may actually be able to safely use penicillin, either because they never were truly allergic or because they have lost sensitivity over time.

For those who think they are allergic to penicillin, it is important to either confirm the allergy or correctly identify if you can safely take this drug. 9 out of 10 patients reporting penicillin allergy are not truly allergic when assessed by skin testing. Unnecessarily avoiding penicillin leads to higher drug costs for patients and healthcare systems, limited and possibly inferior medical treatments, and possible antibiotic resistance.

What you need to know:

-True penicillin allergy is serious, even life-threatening. Someone with a confirmed penicillin allergy should avoid the entire medication group which includes 15 chemically related drugs. Ask your physician if you should be prescribed injectable epinephrine, the only treatment that will stop anaphylaxis, a severe, potentially fatal, allergic reaction.

–A reaction to penicillin as a child does not automatically mean you will react as an adult. Penicillin allergy is not necessarily a life-long condition. It is best to get tested to confirm.

–Symptoms of penicillin allergy may include hives, swelling of the mouth or throat, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Hives are often confused with skin rashes that are non-allergy related. Since it may be difficult to tell the difference, and you can’t always get to a doctor right away, take a photograph of the rash to help with the diagnosis.

–Alternative antibiotics to penicillin may be less effective in treating your infection, may cause unwanted side effects, or maybe more expensive. Don’t limit your treatment options if it isn’t necessary.

–Penicillin allergy testing is safe and reliable. The patient undergoes a series of skin prick tests, with gradually increased amounts of penicillin. A raised bump, or wheal, at the site of the prick, indicates an allergy. If the tests are negative, the next step is an oral challenge to confirm the patient can safely take this drug. These tests should always be conducted by a board-certified allergist trained to recognize and treat potential allergic reactions.

Penicillin allergy testing is available at all AllergySA locations. To schedule an appointment, call 210-616-0882.

September 14, 2022/by Kayla Gomez

English, Health, Illness

The Fall Asthma Epidemic — What Is It?

Fall is one of the most dangerous times for people with asthma, especially children. Asthmatics often enjoy a reprieve from symptoms during the summer months, but ER visits for asthma increase during September and early October. Reports indicate that approximately 25% of all children’s asthma hospitalizations occur in the month of September. Some refer to this as the “September Asthma Epidemic.”

What contributes to the September Asthma Peak?

High fall pollen levels from allergens like ragweed and mold in the air
As children return to school, increased exposure to indoor allergens like animal dander or indoor mold, and VOC’s from new carpeting or construction over the summer. Also, respiratory irritants like air pollutants from idling cars and buses may cause problems
Irregular use of medications to control asthma/allergies over the summer months
Greater exposure to viruses including cold germs, influenza, and COVID-19, after returning to the classroom
Anxiety and stress, along with changing schedules, associated with the new school year

Here are some good reminders, for both children and adults, during this season and throughout the year:

Identify and avoid your asthma triggers.
Have an appropriate treatment plan for allergies, one of the most common triggers of asthma symptoms.
Update and follow your child’s Asthma Action Plan and provide a copy to the school.
Take long-acting asthma medications as prescribed, even when you feel well and your asthma is controlled.
Refill all medications prior to school start and make sure your child has access to their quick-relief inhaler.
Wash hands frequently, eat nutritious meals and get plenty of rest to avoid illness. Serious asthma flares are often associated with respiratory tract infections.
Stay up-to-date on immunizations including the annual influenza shot and COVID-19 vaccinations (all family members).
See your allergist for regular asthma check-ups to maintain good control. As children grow, medications may need to be adjusted.

The physicians at AllergySA are experts in the diagnosis and management of asthma and allergic diseases. Schedule an appointment at one of our 3 locations for an accurate diagnosis and a management plan to keep your family healthy and active this season. Call 210-616-0882

September 14, 2022/by Kayla Gomez

What is Eosinophilic Asthma?

Palforzia – The First FDA Approved Treatment for Children with Peanut Allergy

What to Expect this Spring Season

Commit to Better Breathing in the New Year!

Allergy & Asthma Tips for a Happy Holiday Season

Why You Should Get Your Flu Shot

Eczema – The First Sign That Other Allergic Conditions May Follow

Preparing for Mountain Cedar Season

Are You Allergic to Penicillin, Really?

The Fall Asthma Epidemic — What Is It?

What contributes to the September Asthma Peak?

Here are some good reminders, for both children and adults, during this season and throughout the year:

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