Bright red yogurts, candies, fruit drinks, and even cosmetics may contain a natural coloring called carmine — a little-known ingredient that can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. Although uncommon, carmine allergy has been associated with hives, swelling, asthma symptoms, and even anaphylaxis in rare cases. Because carmine is often labeled as a “natural color,” […]
Goji Berry Allergy: A Rare but Important Food Allergy
Goji berries are often marketed as a “superfood” because they are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. They are commonly found in: Dried fruit mixes Herbal teas Smoothies Protein bars Supplements Traditional Asian medicine products While goji berry reactions are uncommon, true allergic reactions can occur — and in some cases may be severe. What […]
Can You Have a Buckwheat Allergy?
Buckwheat is often assumed to be a “safe” alternative to wheat, especially in gluten-free diets. However, despite its misleading name, buckwheat is not a type of wheat—and it can cause true, sometimes severe, food allergic reactions. Because it is commonly found in health foods and international cuisine, buckwheat allergy is frequently missed in routine evaluations. […]
Dupixent vs. Tezspire for Nasal Polyps: Which Treatment Is Right for You?
If you suffer from nasal polyps, you know how disruptive they can be—constant congestion, sinus pressure, loss of smell, and repeated steroid use or even surgery. Fortunately, advanced biologic therapies like Dupixent (dupilumab) and Tezspire (tezepelumab) are changing how we treat chronic sinus disease. At Allergy & Asthma Care of Los Angeles, we help patients […]
Barzolvolimab: A Breakthrough Treatment Being Studied for Cold Urticaria and Symptomatic Dermographism
Patients with chronic hives often struggle with symptoms that appear without warning. For some individuals, however, hives are triggered by very specific physical stimuli. Two common forms of chronic inducible urticaria are cold-induced urticaria and symptomatic dermographism, both of which can significantly affect daily life. A promising new medication called barzolvolimab is currently being studied […]
Spirulina Allergy: Can This “Superfood” Cause Allergic Reactions?
Spirulina is often marketed as a powerful superfood. It’s added to smoothies, juices, supplements, and even energy bars. But can spirulina cause allergic reactions? As an allergist, I occasionally see patients with unexplained hives, swelling, or breathing symptoms after starting new supplements — and spirulina is sometimes the culprit. Here’s what you should know. What […]
Food Dye Allergy: Symptoms, Causes, and What You Need to Know
Is food dye allergy real? Many patients ask whether artificial food coloring can cause hives, hyperactivity, swelling, or even anaphylaxis. With food dyes found in candy, cereal, sports drinks, medications, and even vitamins, concerns about food dye allergy are becoming more common — especially among parents. As a board-certified allergist in Los Angeles, I evaluate […]
How We Diagnose Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS): An Allergist’s Perspective
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is a condition that can be frustrating for patients and clinicians alike. Symptoms are real, often debilitating, and can affect multiple organ systems, yet standard testing is frequently normal. As allergists and immunologists, our role is to carefully separate true mast cell disease from look-alike conditions and arrive at a […]
KT-621: A New Frontier in Eczema Treatment
Atopic dermatitis (AD), the most common form of eczema, affects millions worldwide and often resists treatment with traditional topicals or injectables. That’s why the emerging investigational drug KT-621 has captured the attention of dermatologists, patients, and investors alike — as a potential oral therapy with biologics-like effects for moderate-to-severe disease. What Is KT-621? KT-621 is […]
Fenugreek Allergy: Symptoms, Cross-Reactivity& Hidden Sources
Fenugreek is a common but often overlooked cause of food allergic reactions. While many people have never heard of fenugreek, it is widely used in spice blends, Indian and Middle Eastern foods, and dietary supplements. For some patients—especially those with peanut allergy—fenugreek can trigger significant allergic reactions. What Is Fenugreek? Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is a […]