A recent study looked at the correlation of food allergy and birth conditions. Namely the association between C-sections, preterm birth, low birth weight, small for gestational age, large for gestational age and low Apgar scores and future food allergy. The prevalence of food allergy is increasing and there is an interest in environmental components, very […]
Alternaria mold is associated with Asthma
The importance of Alternaria mold exposure to allergic disease is underrecognized in urban communities compared to dust mites, cockroach and mouse exposure. Concentrations of Alternaria mold are higher in outdoor than in indoor air, however dampness, leaks can cause fungal penetration and growth indoors. Given the amount of time people spend indoors, indoor exposure may […]
Caregivers are not supporting early peanut introduction guidelines
Recent guidelines recommend early peanut introduction, beginning around 4-6 months in infants with severe eczema and/or egg allergy and around 6 months for all other infants. Peanut allergy affects an estimated 2% of children in the U.S. and it is often lifelong and associated with life threatening anaphylaxis. Recently a teenager died of anaphylaxis after […]
Asthma and Physical Activity
Asthma is the most common chronic condition in children worldwide. The rate of over diagnosis is high, particularly if it is not confirmed by spirometry (pulmonary function testing). The relationship of asthma and physical activity is particularly important for children. A physically active lifestyle is associated with many beneficial health outcomes. Several studies have investigated […]
Risk Factors for Eosinophilic Esophagitis
With the rise of eosinophilic esophagitis being diagnosed in the United States, there likely is a contributing factor. This is evidenced from twin studies that show stronger disease concordance in twins compared with non twin siblings, suggesting that early-life factors contribute. Studies have shown that environmental factors account for nearly 85% of the disease cause. […]
Do Asthma Spacers Help?
The use of asthma spacers for asthma management has been widely accepted for years. However, a remaining concern is that incorrect use of a spacer is common and may lead to poor asthma control. Asthma spacers can be used in conjunction with short acting beta agonists and inhaled corticosteroids. Coordinating device sprays while inhaling an […]
Do Bleach Baths Improve Eczema?
Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disorder affecting 15%-20% of children and 1%-10% of adults in the U.S. and worldwide. Deficiencies in the skin barrier and immune system dysfunction contribute to eczema, resulting in dryness and itching. Eczema patients are predisposed to to skin infections and patients have a high concentration […]
Auvi-Q 0.1 mg dose approved for infants and children
Auvi-Q 0.1 mg dose was recently approved by the FDA for infants and small children weighing 16.5-33 pounds. Currently there are only 2 dosages on the market for injectable epinephrine, 0.15 mg and 0.3 mg. The 0.3 mg dose is for anyone over 66 pounds and 0.15 mg for anyone below it. There was an […]
When do I use my Epipen?
When do I use my Epipen is a question commonly asked among patients who have food allergies. During the past 20 years food allergy has dramatically increased with an increase risk for anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is defined as “a serious allergic reaction that is rapid in onset and may cause death.” Foods are on of the […]
How to Prevent Eczema in Children
In order to prevent eczema children, we first need to discuss atopic dermatitis (eczema) first. Atopic dermatitis affects 17-24% of the pediatric population and 4-7% of adults. It develops in the first 6 months in about half the children and by 5 years of age in 85% of the cases. Only about half of affected […]