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Hyper IgE syndrome is an immune deficiency caused by a genetic mutation in either STAT3 (autosomal dominant, also known as Job’s syndrome) or DOCK8 (autosomal recessive). There may be other mutations in other genes that are not known at this time. Patients with either form of hyper IgE syndrome often have trouble fighting harmful bacteria and fungi. They may get serious infections. This often happens in the skin and lungs. Signs and Symptoms of Hyper IgE Syndrome The patient may have: Eczema Frequent skin infections Abscesses in the skin or lungs that reoccur Dry, itchy skin (eczema) Frequent pneumonia Yeast infections Elevated IgE Allergic respiratory problems Complications of Hyper IgE Syndrome Complications of Hyper IgE syndrome broken down by genetic mutation: STAT 3 Mutations Delay in losing primary teeth Large cysts in the lungs, called pneumatoceles Increased broken bones (fractures) Abnormal curve of the spine (scoliosis) Changes in blood vessels (aneurysms) Lymphoma DOCK8 Mutations Asthma and other allergic disorders Viral skin infections (warts, molluscum, herpes) Skin cancer Lymphoma How Do You Detect These Complications? Chest X-rays or chest CT scans may be done to look for cysts in the lungs Clinical surveillance (watching for signs) Treatment for Hyper IgE Syndrome For most patients, the focus of treatment is to stop the symptoms. This can include: Antibiotics to treat infections Cream medicine for skin rash Anti-Allergic medicines Checking pulmonary (lung) function with spirometry and imaging Some patients may need to take medicine every day to prevent infection. Some patients may need to get an IV medicine called IVIG. IVIG has antibodies to fight future infections. For some patients with DOCK8 deficiency, a bone marrow transplant is advised.

Overview of Gastroenteritis Allergy induced Stomach Pain Gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the lining of the intestines. Symptoms include: nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, headache,  diarrhea etc. One of the worst things that can happen during gastroenteritis is dehydration because it is often difficult to keep down more than what you are losing. Usually, there is no specific treatment associated with viral gastroenteritis, but there can be for allergic/eosinophilic gastroenteritis. Symptoms of Gastroenteritis Gastroenteritis directly affects the intestines. Some symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, headaches, muscle aches and fever. Symptoms may range from mild to severe and typically last between one and ten days. You will begin noticing symptoms within minutes or hours of ingestion. Severe symptoms will require a visit to your physician. If you are an adult, seek medical attention if you are a vomiting for more than two days, cannot keep liquids down for 24 hours, vomiting blood, blood in bowel movements, dehydrated, or have a fever above 104 degrees. In children, see your physician if the fever exceeds 102 degrees, seems tired, has bloody diarrhea, or is dehydrated. In babies, call your physician if they have not wet a diaper in six hours, has bloody bowel movements, diarrhea, dry mouth, cries with no tears, vomiting that lasts more than a few hours, or is very drowsy. Causes of Gastroenteritis The cause of gastroenteritis is typically an allergic reaction to food. There are proteins in the food that some people’s immune system finds to be harmful. When your body finds a certain protein to be harmful, it will react on the second exposure to the allergen. Usually an allergic reaction does not occur on the first encounter, but will likely happen on the second. The most common food allergies are triggered by shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts and fish. In children, the most common food allergies are triggered by peanuts, eggs, milk, wheat, soy and lentils. Risk Factors of Gastroenteritis You are at a higher risk for a food allergy if you have a family history of food allergies. If you have other allergies or asthma, you will likely have a food allergy too. Age is also important to look at, as most food allergies occur in children. Typically, children will outgrow some of their food allergies. Prevention of Gastroenteritis The best method of prevention is to avoid the food allergen as diagnosed by Allergy Skin Test or Specialised Allergy Blood Tests. Since there is no real treatment for gastroenteritis, you will have to treat the symptoms. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Stop eating full meals and really focus on just sipping water and eating bland food. Take the medicines prescribed to prevent progression of symptoms. Check labels on foods before purchasing and if you are eating in a restaurant, check with the server to ensure there is no cross-contamination. In some cases, you may have to have them properly clean the area and even trade gloves. Some ingredients may be hidden under other ingredient names. Study the alternative names so you know what to look for when purchasing and ordering. If there is no possible way to avoid your allergens in restaurants, then pack meals and snacks to bring with you. If your child is the one with the allergy, be sure to notify everyone that is responsible for your child, including teachers, after-school care workers, babysitters, their friend’s parents, etc. Diagnosis A proper diagnosis will be done through a food journal and/or physical exam. Final confirmation of diagnosis is through an Allergy Skin test/Blood test orders by an Allergy Immunology Superspecialist. Upper GI endoscopy with biopsy is often essential to confirm presence of eosinophils in the oesophagus or stomach or small intestines. Ensuring the proper diagnosis is essential in treatment. Once you know what triggers a reaction, then you will be able to avoid the food. You can avoid the food by checking labels, speaking with the restaurant staff, or bringing your own food. Specific treatments are also available for Eosinophilic Oesophagitis and  Gastroenteritis which your Allergist will explain to you. Now, Avoid using affordable-papers.net biased words or phrasing, such as”of course”obviously. if you are like most students out there, you need your study paper to seem as professional and higher quality as possible.

Honey bee stings or other flying stinging insect allergies are rising and can pose serious problems for those who become allergic to them. Both children and adults can be affected by these reactions. Symptoms of Insect stings Bee stings can produce different reactions, ranging from temporary pain and discomfort to a severe allergic reaction. Having one type of reaction doesn’t mean you’ll always have the same reaction every time you’re stung or that the next reaction will necessarily be more severe. Mild reaction Most of the time, bee sting symptoms are minor and include: Instant, sharp burning pain at the sting site A red welt at the sting area Slight swelling around the sting area In most people, the swelling and pain go away within a few hours with first aid care. Moderate reaction Some people who get stung by a bee or other insect have a bit stronger reaction, with signs and symptoms such as: Extreme redness Swelling at the site of the sting that gradually enlarges over the next day or two Moderate reactions tend to resolve over five to 10 days. Having a moderate reaction doesn’t mean you’ll have a severe allergic reaction the next time you’re stung. But some people develop similar moderate reactions each time they’re stung. If this happens to you, talk to your Allergy specialist about treatment and prevention, especially if the reaction becomes more severe each time. Severe allergic reaction A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to bee stings is potentially life-threatening and requires emergency treatment. A small percentage of people who are stung by a bee or other insect quickly develop anaphylaxis. Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include: Skin reactions, including hives and itching and flushed or pale skin Difficulty breathing Swelling of the throat and tongue A weak, rapid pulse Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea Dizziness or fainting Loss of consciousness People who have a severe allergic reaction to a bee sting have a 25% to 65% chance of anaphylaxis the next time they’re stung. Consult an Allergy Immunology superspecialist about testing to confirm the allergy and then about prevention measures such as immunotherapy (“allergy shots”) to avoid a similar reaction in case you get stung again. An emergency action plan will also be provided to you during your visit with us in case of any future accidental stings.

Urticaria, also called hives, are red, itchy, swollen areas of the skin that can range in size and appear anywhere on the body. The blotches can migrate on body, appearing in different areas throughout the course of the reaction. Usually, the cause of urticaria is readily identifiable—often a viral infection, or allergic reaction to drugs, food or latex. These hives usually go away spontaneously or by avoiding the allergic trigger. However, in some cases, medical intervention is needed to increase comfort or prevent recurrence. Treatment with oral antihistamines is frequently successful, but in severe cases, steroids may be needed. Some people have chronic urticaria that occurs almost daily for months or, in some cases, years. For these individuals, scratching, pressure or stress may aggravate hives. An allergist/immunologist can diagnosis the problem and prescribe treatments for this bothersome condition.

Allergy is defined as a “harmful, increased susceptibility to a specific substance,” also known as hypersensitivity, while immunity is characterized as a “protective, enhanced resistance.” The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology has an array of resources about allergic disease to help you understand how your allergies affect you, your friends and family. Skin Allergies Red, bumpy, scaly, itchy or swollen skin – any of these signs may mean you have a skin allergy. The most common allergic skin conditions are: Eczema Hives and angioedema Allergic contact dermatitis Symptoms of a skin allergy include: A strange rash Red, scaly or itchy skin A swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, such as the eyelids, mouth or genitals Dry, flaking skin Inflamed or blistered skin Skin allergies are painful and unpleasant, but there are things you can do to treat and prevent an allergic skin reaction. Some people are allergic to latex, a substance often found in rubber gloves and balloons. Signs of latex allergy may resemble those of contact dermatitis. But sometimes latex allergy causes a serious reaction called anaphylaxis. This life-threatening condition requires immediate medical treatment. If you think you are having this kind of reaction, call 911 immediately. Skin allergies can take several forms and have a variety of causes. To find out what is causing your skin condition, talk to an allergist/immunologist – a doctor with special training to manage allergies and asthma. An allergist can also help you develop a treatment plan. Eczema and Atopic Dermatitis Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a common allergic reaction often affecting the face, elbows and knees. This red, scaly, itchy rash is usually seen in young infants, but can occur later in life in individuals with personal or family histories of other allergic conditions – such as asthma or hay fever. In infants, eczema usually appears as tiny bumps on the cheeks. Older children and adults often experience rashes on the knees or elbows (often in the folds of the joints), on the backs of hands or on the scalp. Itching is the hallmark symptom and can sometimes be very intense. Eczema can appear very dry, with flaking skin, or can have lesions that ooze – often a sign of a bacterial infection caused by scratching. Identifying the cause of the itch is essential in relieving the dermatitis. Common triggers include allergens, overheating or sweating, emotional stress, eating certain foods and contact with irritants such as wool, pets, soaps or other agents. Urticaria (hives) Urticaria, also called hives, are red, itchy, swollen areas of the skin that can range in size and appear anywhere on the body. The blotches can migrate on body, appearing in different areas throughout the course of the reaction. Usually, the cause of urticaria is readily identifiable—often a viral infection, or allergic reaction to drugs, food or latex. These hives usually go away spontaneously or by avoiding the allergic trigger. However, in some cases, medical intervention is needed to increase comfort or prevent recurrence. Treatment with oral antihistamines is frequently successful, but in severe cases, steroids may be needed. Some people have chronic urticaria that occurs almost daily for months or, in some cases, years. For these individuals, scratching, pressure or stress may aggravate hives. An allergist/immunologist can diagnosis the problem and prescribe treatments for this bothersome condition. Angioedema Angioedema is a swelling of the deeper layers of the skin and often occurs with hives. Angioedema itself is not red or itchy and most often occurs in the body’s soft tissue, such as the eyelids, mouth or genitals. Angioedema is called “acute” if the condition lasts only a short time (minutes to days) and does not recur. This is commonly caused by an allergic reaction to medications or foods. Chronic recurrent angioedema occurs when the condition returns over a long period of time. Chronic recurrent angioedema most often does not have an identifiable cause. Contact Dermatitis Contact dermatitis refers to a broad range of reactions resulting from the direct contact of an allergen or irritant with the surface of the skin. A reaction usually appears after one to three days. This type of reaction can develop at any time in life. The skin becomes red, itchy and inflamed, and will frequently blister. Poison ivy is the most common cause, but other plants, metals (such as nickel), cosmetics and medications can also cause a reaction. Allergic contact dermatitis can be treated by scrubbing the skin with soap and water after exposure to the allergen and using prescribed antihistamine and cortisone medications, depending on severity. Avoidance of the irritant is the most effective prevention.

Sinusitis is a painful, long-lasting inflammation of the sinuses. Sinuses are the hollow cavities around the cheek bones found around the eyes and behind the nose. Symptoms of sinusitis include: Congestion Green or gray nasal discharge Postnasal drip Pressure in the face Headache Fever A cough that won’t go away Sinusitis is common in the winter. It may last for months or years if it is not properly treated. Colds are the most common cause of acute sinusitis, but people with allergies are much more likely to develop sinusitis than people who do not have allergies. Sinuses are empty cavities within your cheek bones, around your eyes and behind your nose. Their main job is to warm, moisten and filter air in your nasal cavity. If your stuffy nose and cough last longer than one or two weeks, you may have more than a cold. Sinusitis (pronounced sine-you-SITE-iss) is a swelling of one or more of your nasal sinuses and nasal passages. It is often called a sinus infection. You may experience pressure around your nose, eyes or forehead, a stuffy nose, thick, discolored nasal drainage, bad-tasting post-nasal drip, cough, head congestion, ear fullness or a headache. Symptoms may also include a toothache, tiredness and, occasionally, a fever. By learning more about sinusitis, you will have a better understanding of your symptoms. An allergist/immunologist, often referred to as an allergist, can make an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan that works for you. Types and Causes of Sinusitis Acute sinusitis refers to sinusitis symptoms that last less than four weeks. Most acute sinusitis starts as a regular cold from the common cold viruses and then becomes a bacterial infection. Chronic sinusitis is when symptoms last three months or longer. The cause of chronic sinusitis is believed to be a combination of swelling and infection. Recurrent sinusitis occurs when three or more acute episodes happen in a year. Allergies or “hay fever” put you at risk for developing sinusitis because allergies can cause swelling of the sinuses and nasal mucous linings. This swelling prevents the sinus cavities from draining, and increases your chances of developing secondary bacterial sinusitis. If you test positive for allergies, your allergist can prescribe appropriate medications to control your allergies, possibly reducing your risk of developing an infection. In rare cases, immune problems that harm your ability to fight common infections may present with chronic or recurrent sinusitis. Problems with the structure of your nose-such as narrow drainage passages, tumors or a shifted nasal septum (the bone and cartilage that separate the right from the left nostrils)-can also cause sinusitis. Surgery is sometimes needed to correct these problems. Many patients with recurring or chronic sinusitis have more than one factor that puts them at risk of infection. So, an accurate diagnosis is essential. Diagnosis To diagnose sinusitis, an allergist will take a detailed history and perform a physical examination. He or she may also order tests. These tests can include allergy testing, sinus CT scans (which take exact images of the sinus cavities) or a sample of your nasal secretions or lining. Your physician may also perform an endoscopic examination. This involves inserting a narrow, flexible endoscope (a device with a light attached) into the nasal cavity through the nostrils after local anesthesia. This allows your physician to view the area where your sinuses drain into your nose in an easy, painless manner. Treatment Sinus infections generally require a mix of therapies. Your physician may prescribe a medication to reduce blockage or control allergies, which helps keep the sinus passages open. This medicine may be a decongestant, a mucus-thinning medicine or a steroid nasal spray. If bacterial sinusitis is present, your physician may prescribe an antibiotic. For people with allergies, long-term treatment to control and reduce allergic symptoms can also help in preventing sinusitis. Several non-drug treatments can also be helpful. These include breathing in hot, moist air and washing the nasal cavities with salt water. If you need surgery to fix the structure of your nose, your allergist may refer you to an otorhinolaryngologist, or an ear-nose-throat physician (ENT). Sinusitis Versus Rhinitis Symptoms of sinusitis and rhinitis are very similar. Rhinitis is a swelling of the mucous membranes of the nose while sinusitis includes swelling of the sinuses in addition to the nasal passages. For this reason, sinusitis is often called rhinosinusitis. Rhinitis may be allergic or non-allergic. Allergic rhinitis is caused by allergens in the air, which are usually harmless but can cause problems in allergic people. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis often are a runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion and itchy eyes, nose, throat and ears. People with non-allergic rhinitis usually just have a stuffy nose. It may be caused by irritants such as smoke, changes in barometric pressure or temperature or overuse of over-the-counter decongestant nasal sprays. Your allergist can perform simple tests to determine if your symptoms are from sinusitis or rhinitis. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology’s brochure on Rhinitis offers also more helpful advice on allergic and non-allergic rhinitis. Healthy Tips  Sinusitis is a swelling of the nose and sinuses. Acute sinusitis occurs when symptoms last less than four weeks. Chronic sinusitis occurs when symptoms last more than three months. People with allergies are at greater risk of getting sinus infections. Treatment for sinusitis is available. See an allergist for help managing your symptoms.

Rhinitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose. Symptoms include: Sneezing Itchy nose, roof of the mouth, throat, eyes and ears Runny nose Congestion Watery eyes Seasonal allergic rhinitis (or hay fever) is caused by allergens like mold and pollen. Some people have symptoms of rhinitis no matter what the season. This is called perennial allergic rhinitis. It can be caused by allergens such as animal dander, indoor mold, dust mites and cockroaches. Sinusitis is a painful, long-lasting inflammation of the sinuses. Sinuses are the hollow cavities around the cheek bones found around the eyes and behind the nose. Symptoms of sinusitis include: Congestion Green or gray nasal discharge Postnasal drip Pressure in the face Headache Fever A cough that won’t go away Sinusitis is common in the winter. It may last for months or years if it is not properly treated. Colds are the most common cause of acute sinusitis, but people with allergies are much more likely to develop sinusitis than people who do not have allergies. Do you suffer from frequent sneezing, congestion and an itchy or runny nose? If so, you may have rhinitis. Rhinitis is one of the most common chronic conditions, affecting 10% to 30% of adults and up to 40% of children in the United States. If this includes you, you don’t have to suffer. By learning more about rhinitis, you will have a better understanding of your symptoms. An allergist/immunologist, often referred to as an allergist, can make an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan that works for you. Allergic Rhinitis There are two types of rhinitis: allergic rhinitis and non-allergic rhinitis. Let’s talk first about allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis is caused by allergens in the air, which are usually harmless but can cause problems in certain people. Allergy symptoms are the result of a chain reaction that starts in the immune system. Your immune system controls how your body defends itself. For instance, if you have an allergy to pollen, your immune system identifies pollen as an invader or allergen. Your immune system overreacts by producing antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies travel to cells that release chemicals, causing an allergic reaction with symptoms such as sneezing, stuffiness, a runny nose, itching and post-nasal drip. People with rhinitis are prone to itchy, watery eyes (from allergic conjunctivitis), and they may be more sensitive to irritants such as smoke, perfume or cold, dry air. Rhinitis can contribute to other problems such as asthma, sinus or ear conditions or trouble sleeping. Causes When allergic rhinitis is caused by outdoor allergens such as tree, grass and weed pollen, it is called seasonal allergic rhinitis, or “hay fever.” Rhinitis can also occur year-round because of indoor allergens from pets, mold, dust mites and cockroach droppings. This is called perennial allergic rhinitis. You can have either seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis, or a combination of both. Diagnosis and Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis An allergist can help determine which allergens, if any, are causing your symptoms. He or she will take a detailed health history, perform a physical exam and then test you for allergies. Skin tests show the results within 20 minutes. These results, as well as how frequent and bad your symptoms are, will be considered when developing a treatment plan. Steps to manage your symptoms may include avoiding the allergens you are allergic to, medications and/or allergy shots (immunotherapy). Avoiding allergens. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology brochures on Indoor Allergens and Outdoor Allergens give helpful advice to help you reduce exposure to the allergens to which you are sensitive. Medications. Some medications for allergic rhinitis are best used daily to control inflammation and prevent symptoms, while others are used only as needed to relieve symptoms. Nasal corticosteroid sprays can control inflammation and reduce all symptoms of allergic rhinitis, including itching, sneezing, runny nose and stuffiness. Antihistamines in the form of pills or nasal sprays block histamine and may relieve itching, sneezing and runny nose. But they may not be as effective in reducing nasal stuffiness. Anti-leukotrienes in the form of pills can reduce all the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Decongestant pills or nasal sprays can be used as needed if nasal stuffiness is not relieved with other medications. Decongestant sprays should not be used for long periods of time because they can cause your congestion to return. Ipratropium nasal spray can be used specifically for a runny nose. Allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy, may be considered if your symptoms are constant, if you don’t want to take medications or feel that they are not enough, or if you want long-term control of your allergies with less need for medications. This treatment involves receiving injections periodically-as determined by your allergist-over a period of three to five years. The end result is decreased sensitivity to allergens. Non-Allergic Rhinitis Some people with rhinitis symptoms do not have allergies. Non-allergic rhinitis usually begins in adults and causes year-round symptoms, especially a runny nose and nasal stuffiness. Strong odors, pollution, smoke and other irritants may cause symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis. Non-allergic rhinitis symptoms can also develop as side effects of medications, including some blood pressure medicines, oral contraceptives or medications used for erectile dysfunction. The most common form of this type of non-allergic rhinitis is caused by nasal decongestant sprays such as oxymetazoline, when used for long periods of time. This type of medication-induced rhinitis is also called rhinitis medicamentosa. Treatment of Non-Allergic Rhinitis If there is inflammation in the nose, the treatment of choice is nasal corticosteroid sprays. Ipratropium nasal spray can relieve a runny nose. Decongestant pills can be used as needed to relieve nasal stuffiness. Other forms of treatment may be considered if you have problems with the structure of your nose, such as narrow drainage passages, tumors or a shifted nasal septum (the bone and cartilage that separate the right from the left nostril). In these cases, an operation may be needed. Healthy Tips There are two

During pregnancy, mothers-to-be may feel uneasy taking medications. However, if a pregnant woman has asthma, it is doubly important that her symptoms be well-managed to increase both her health and that of her baby. Uncontrolled asthma can be a threat to maternal well-being and fetal growth and survival. The goals of asthma management and treatment during pregnancy are the same as for other patients—to prevent hospitalization, emergency room visits, work loss and chronic disability. If you are pregnant and have asthma or allergies, you may feel uneasy about taking medications, but it is very important to keep your symptoms under control. How do you stay healthy and know which medications are best for you during your pregnancy? An allergist/immunologist, often referred to as an allergist, can tell you which asthma and allergy medications are the safest and most effective to take throughout pregnancy. Make an appointment with an allergist soon after you discover you are pregnant to develop or review your personal treatment plan and to give you peace of mind. In the meantime, here are answers to some common questions. Can women with asthma have safe pregnancies? Yes. With good asthma management, you can keep your asthma under control and have a healthy baby. How does uncontrolled asthma affect the fetus? Uncontrolled asthma symptoms can cause a decrease in the amount of oxygen in your blood supply. The fetus gets its oxygen from your blood. Since a fetus needs a constant supply of oxygen for normal growth and development, managing asthma symptoms is very important to allow you and your baby to get enough oxygen. Is it safe to take my asthma medications? The risks of asthma flare-ups are greater than the risks of taking necessary asthma medications. Studies show that most inhaled asthma medications are safe for women to use while pregnant. However, oral medications (pills) should be avoided unless necessary to control symptoms. Knowing which medications to take is a good reason to stay in close contact with your allergist so he or she can monitor your condition and alter your medications or dosages if needed. Will being pregnant affect my asthma symptoms? Pregnancy may affect the severity of your asthma symptoms. One study showed that asthma symptoms were worse in 35% of pregnant women, improved in 28% and remained the same in 33% of pregnant women. Asthma has a tendency to get worse in the late second and early third trimesters; and, many women have fewer symptoms during the last four weeks of pregnancy. Can I continue to get allergy shots during pregnancy? Allergy shots, or immunotherapy, are safe to take while you are pregnant. As always, your allergist will monitor your dose to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction to the shots. These reactions are rare, however, a reaction could be harmful to the fetus. Also, allergy shot treatments should not be started for the first time during pregnancy. What should I avoid if I have asthma or allergies? Whether you are pregnant or not, you should stay away from things that trigger your symptoms. This might include dust mites and animal dander, and irritants such as cigarette smoke. Can women with asthma perform Lamaze? Most women with asthma are able to do Lamaze breathing techniques without any problems. Asthma symptoms are rare during labor and delivery in women whose asthma has been managed during pregnancy. Can I breastfeed if I am taking medications for my asthma or allergies? Breastfeeding is a good way to increase your child’s immunity, and it is strongly recommended. Medications recommended for use during pregnancy can be continued while nursing, because the baby gets less maternal medicine through breast milk than in the womb. Your allergist can discuss with you the best treatments while nursing. Although these are common questions during pregnancy, each patient’s individual treatment varies. It is best to visit your allergist regularly during pregnancy so that any worsening of asthma can be countered by appropriate changes in your asthma management plan. Make sure to discuss any specific concerns with your physician to ensure the healthiest pregnancy-for your well being and that of your baby. Healthy Tips  You can have a healthy pregnancy if you have asthma or allergies. Managing your symptoms is very important during pregnancy. Do not stop taking your medications. An allergist has special training to develop or review a treatment plan that is right for you while you are pregnant.

Millions of Americans take great pleasure in being dog and cat owners; yet many of these owners or potential owners suffer allergic reactions when exposed to these animals. It is a common misconception that people are allergic to a dog or cat’s hair, and it is falsely believed that an animal that sheds less will not cause a reaction. However, allergies to pets are caused by protein found in the animal’s dander (dead skin cells), saliva or urine. These proteins are carried on microscopic particles through the air. When inhaled, they trigger reactions in allergic people. As all dogs and cats posses these proteins, none of them are allergy-free. Though some breeds are considered more allergy friendly, it is likely because they are groomed more frequently – a process that removes much of the dander. While the most effective treatment for animal allergies is avoidance, this is not always possible. Below are some tips for minimizing allergy symptoms: Visit an allergist/immunologist to diagnose the allergy and discuss treatment, which may include maintenance medications or immunotherapy (allergy shots). Keep the pet out of the allergic person’s bedroom. Animal dander will collect on pillows, leading to worsened symptoms at night and morning. Bathe the animal weekly to reduce the amount of dander shed at home. Replace carpeting with hardwood or other solid-surface flooring for easy clean-up. Vacuuming may not be effective in decreasing allergen levels, but using a HEPA filter and double bags may help. Wash bedding and clothing in hot water. While animal allergens are not easily removed by high temperatures, these measures may help. There’s no guarantee that someone who is truly allergic to pets (about 10% of those with allergies) will tolerate living with a dog or cat. If you’re thinking about getting a pet, but are concerned about allergies, consider trying one out on a trial basis. You can also begin allergy treatment before getting a pet, including allergy shots. Tips to remember: • No dog is 100% hypoallergenic. Even hairless dogs produce some allergens. • Keeping pets out of the bedroom can help reduce allergy symptoms. • About 10% of allergic individuals have allergies to pets. It can be as high as one out of five individuals with asthma • Get pet allergy testing and begin allergy treatment (including allergen immunotherapy) before you get a pet can help ease symptoms

Asthma is the most common serious chronic disease of childhood, affecting nearly 5 million children in the United States. Characterized by coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and wheezing, asthma is the cause of almost 3 million physician visits and 200,000 hospitalizations each year. In infants and children, asthma may appear as cough, rapid or noisy breathing in and out, or chest congestion, without the other symptoms seen in adults. Children with recurrent cough, wheezing, chest tightness or shortness of breath may have one or more forms of asthma. Left untreated, asthmatic children often have less stamina than other children, or avoid physical activities to prevent coughing or wheezing. Sometimes they will complain that their “chest hurts” or that they can not “catch their breath.” Colds may “go straight to their chest.” They may cough when sick, particularly at night. Asthma has multiple causes, and it is not uncommon for two or more different causes to be present in one child. Asthma is not just “wheezing.” Coughing, recurrent bronchitis and shortness of breath, especially when exercising, are also ways that asthma appears. Diagnosis Diagnosing the precise cause of asthma is sometimes difficult because two or more causes may be present in one child. Unfortunately, there is not a single test that provides all the answers. An allergist/immunologist, often referred to as an allergist, has specialized training and experience to determine if your child has asthma, what is causing it and develop a treatment plan. Your child’s allergist will want to learn how often episodes of wheezing/coughing/other symptoms occur, and how bad they are. It is important to understand what triggers your child’s symptoms, and what (including medications) makes them go away. An understanding of your family history and environment (smoking, pets, etc) is useful, so your physician may ask. Infants may need extra attention during the diagnostic process because asthma symptoms can be caused by many things in this age group, some of which need very different therapies. When an infant has asthma symptoms, it is sometimes called “reactive airway disease.” The two most common triggers of asthma in children are colds and allergens. After infancy, allergies become particularly important, and therefore asthmatic children should have an allergy evaluation to help diagnose and manage their asthma. Avoiding the allergens to which your child is allergic may help improve his or her asthma. If your child is older than 5 years, he or she may be asked to perform pulmonary function testing to learn how air flows in his or her lungs. Other tests that your physician may discuss with you include measures of inflammation, a chest x-ray and tests for some of the less common causes of asthma-like symptoms. Management The most important part of managing asthma is for you and your child to be very knowledgeable about how and when asthma causes problems, how some of the triggers can be avoided and how to use medications. The causes of asthma and best treatment for it in your child may be quite different than for another child. Your allergist will help you develop an asthma management plan, and it is wise to share it with other caregivers. This plan outlines what medications to take, and when and how to increase the doses or add more medication if needed. It also includes advice about when to call your physician. An asthma management plan puts you in control for detection and early treatment of symptoms. Inhaled medications come as metered dose inhalers (sometimes called pumps), nebulizer solutions (delivered as a mist by a machine) and dry powder inhalers. It is important to learn how to use the type of medications prescribed for your child, or they might not work well. Another brochure in this series, Inhaled Asthma Medications, offers helpful information. Asthma medications include inhaled rescue medications (quick relievers) to treat symptoms and long-term controller medicines (inhaled as well as oral) to control inflammation that commonly causes the asthma. If your child’s asthma is more than a rare minor problem, a controller medication will probably be prescribed. Our knowledge about asthma and its therapy is constantly changing. An ongoing relationship with your child’s physician is key to determining what will work best for your child, now and throughout childhood. Answers to Commonly Asked Questions Will my child outgrow his/her asthma? Many babies who wheeze with viral respiratory illnesses will stop wheezing as they grow older. If your child has atopic dermatitis (eczema), allergies or if there is smoking in the home or a strong family history of allergies or asthma, there is a greater chance that asthma symptoms will persist. Can asthma be cured? Not yet. However, for most children and adults, asthma can be controlled throughout life with appropriate diagnosis, education and treatment. Should my child exercise? Once a child’s asthma is controlled, (usually with the help of proper medications) exercise should become part of his or her daily activities. Children with asthma certainly can and do excel in athletics. Many Olympic athletes have asthma. How can symptoms be controlled at school? You, your family, physician and school personnel can work together to prevent and/or control asthma. Share your child’s asthma management plan with the school nurse and any coaches who oversee your child. With the approval of physicians and parents, school-age children with asthma should be allowed to carry metered dose inhalers with them and use them as appropriate. Healthy Tips Asthma is not just “wheezing.” Coughing, recurrent bronchitis and shortness of breath, especially when exercising, are also ways that asthma appears. The two most common triggers of asthma in children are colds and allergens. Diagnosing the precise cause of asthma is sometimes difficult because two or more causes may be present in one child. The most important part of managing asthma is for you and your child to be very knowledgeable about how and when asthma causes problems and how to use medications. An allergist has specialized training and experience to determine if your child has asthma, what