Thursday, September 27, 2012

Oral Allergy Syndrome

Sometimes my mouth tingles when I eat melons - is this a food allergy?

If you also happen to be allergic to ragweed pollen, you may be experiencing a type of allergy called "oral allergy syndrome".  This occurs when eating fruits or vegetables containing proteins that are cousins of pollen proteins, especially during that specific pollen season.  So eating melons during the early fall, when ragweed pollens are high, can result in itching or tingling of the lips or mouth.  People with birch pollen allergy may react in this way when eating apples.  

Are these symptoms dangerous?

Unlike peanut or shellfish proteins, which often cause serious allergic reactions, these fruit proteins are rapidly broken down by enzymes in your mouth or stomach, making it very unlikely that they will make it into your bloodstream to cause a severe reaction.

As with all allergy symptoms, however, it is advisable to have any adverse reactions to a food checked out by an allergist for specific recommendations.

For more information, visit our website at www.southbayallergy.com.

Monday, September 24, 2012

Are allergies inherited?

Though having allergies tends to run in families, the exact type of allergic disorder may vary from one generation to the next.  For example, if Grandma had asthma, and Dad had hives from food allergies, you and your siblings may have "hay fever" (nasal allergies) or eczema, but not necessarily asthma or hives.

Also, while you may be allergic to shellfish, your child could develop an allergy to anything from foods to airborne inhaled allergens such as pollens or dust mites.  Just because a parent is allergic to cats doesn't mean a child will also be allergic to cats.  If there is a rabbit in the playroom, it is much more likely that the child will develop an allergy to rabbits.

For more information, please visit us at www.southbayallergy.com

Sunday, September 23, 2012

Hay Fever?



"Hay fever", a term from a bygone era, actually has nothing to do with hay!

Instead, it’s a general term used to describe the symptoms of nasal allergies to a variety of triggers. It is also known as allergic rhinitis.  Most commonly, hay fever symptoms include itchy, watery eyes and nose, a stuffy nose, and sneezing.



See one of our allergists for help discovering your specific allergy triggers.  We can advise you on practical ways to avoid these triggers, the use of appropriate medications to control your symptoms, and whether "allergy shots" may be your best option.

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Fall Allergy Tips!


Look out for ragweed and mold! They are 2 of the main culprits that can cause allergy symptoms in the Fall.

Ragweed and other weeds are the biggest allergy triggers in the Fall. They begin pollinating in August and can travel hundreds of miles in the wind.


Mold thrives in damp areas such as in the piles of damp leaves lining yards and streets, bathrooms, and damp basements.
 
Here are some tips to manage your Fall allergies:
  • Limit your time outdoors when pollen counts are high and close your windows during windy days to keep pollen from blowing in. (check daily pollen counts in your zip code on our website: www.southbayallergy.com)
  • Use your HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter, which removes at least 99% of pollen, as well as animal dander, dust and other particles.
  • Wear a mask when raking leaves to avoid inhaling mold spores.
  • Before turning on the heater for the first time, clean the heating ducts and change the filters because mold and dust particles can become trapped in the vents over summer.
If you have symptoms like sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, or itchy eyes or throat, you should see an allergist to discuss treatment options like prescription medications or allergy shots.

For more information, please visit our website at www.southbayallergy.com

Source: ACAAI








Wednesday, September 5, 2012