Dr. Juanita Mora, allergist and immunologist, joins Kortney and Dr. Gupta to help patients figure out whether their asthma is actually being managed the way it should be, and what to do if it is not.

What we cover in this episode about asthma symptoms and control

• What well-managed asthma actually looks like. Dr. Mora explains what life should feel like when your asthma is properly treated, and why so many patients have accepted a version of their life that is smaller than it needs to be.
• Why frequent flare-ups are a warning sign. Why underlying airway swelling is dangerous and why catching it early matters.
• The Rules of 2. Five questions covering daytime symptoms, nighttime waking, rescue inhaler use, inhaler refills, and steroid use that can help you figure out if your asthma needs more attention.
• When to ask for a referral. If you are answering yes to any of these questions and your treatment plan is not changing, it may be time to push for a referral to an allergist or pulmonologist who has more tools to help.
• First steps you can take with ControlYourAsthma.org. Dr. Mora walks through the campaign website, available in English and Spanish, including videos, the Rules of 2 quiz, and access to a free asthma coach.

More resources

• ControlYourAsthma.org
• ControlarTuAsma.org
• Free Asthma Coach Program

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Sanofi-Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta sit down with Dr. Joanne Moreau, a board-certified allergist and immunologist, to unpack exactly how food allergies develop, and why no parent should carry the weight of blame.

• How food allergies develop. The immune system, genetics, and environment all play a role, and science is still uncovering why.
• Food allergy genetics and family history. A parent with asthma, eczema, or hay fever raises a child's risk, even without a food allergy themselves.
• Pregnancy diet, breastfeeding, and food allergy. No conclusive evidence links what a mother eats during pregnancy, or whether she breastfeeds, to whether a child develops food allergies.
• Eczema and food allergy. Cracked or inflamed skin lets food proteins in before the gut can build tolerance, which can trigger sensitization.
• Early allergen introduction. Introducing allergenic foods between 4 and 6 months of age, and keeping them in the diet consistently, is one of the best tools we have.

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Genentech and Kaléo for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Dr. Cherie Zachary, current president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, joins Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta to talk about why uncontrolled asthma remains a serious and largely preventable problem, and what providers can do differently starting with their next patient visit.

What we cover in this episode about uncontrolled asthma

• The data behind the problem. ER visits, hospitalizations, and asthma deaths have not improved in years, and Dr. Zachary explains why that should concern every provider who treats asthma patients.
• An ER visit is a treatment failure. Dr. Zachary makes the case that any asthma patient who ends up in urgent care or the emergency room should trigger an immediate reassessment of their treatment plan, not just a course of steroids and a send-home.
• Five questions every provider should be asking. The episode walks through a standardized set of control questions designed to help providers catch uncontrolled asthma before it becomes a crisis, covering steroid use, ER visits, rescue inhaler use, nighttime waking, and daily activity limitations.
• Why patients normalize their symptoms. Providers hear what controlled asthma should actually look like, and why patients often don't volunteer the information needed to catch a problem.
• Who is most at risk. Dr. Zachary shares which patient populations are most likely to have uncontrolled asthma and least likely to be identified, and what providers can do to close that gap.

• ControlYourAsthma.org 

• Free AAN Asthma Coach Program

• Find an allergist

• Understanding Oral Corticosteroid Overuse in Asthma

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Sanofi-Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

In this episode, psychologist Dr. Amanda Whitehouse joins Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta to talk about what food allergy bullying actually looks like, how to start a conversation with your child without shutting them down, and when and how to bring the school into it.

• What food allergy bullying looks like. From verbal teasing and social exclusion to threats involving allergens, and how it differs from everyday teasing.
• Signs your child may be being bullied. Behavioral shifts to watch for include school avoidance, changes in eating habits, and withdrawal from activities they used to love.
• How to start the conversation. Why open-ended questions and connection before action are key to getting your child to open up.
• When and how to involve the school. How to approach teachers and administrators, know your child's rights, and document what's happening.
• Building resilience after bullying. How involving your child in the solution, rather than swooping in to fix it, helps them feel empowered rather than powerless.

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Genentech and Kaléo for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

What we cover in this episode is patient advocacy for allergy and asthma

• Anyone can be an advocate. Advocacy is not just for politicians or lawyers. It is for anyone who sees a problem and wants to do something about it, from patients, caregivers, doctors, and everyday people alike.
• Forms of advocacy, from social media to Capitol Hill. You do not have to fly to Washington to make a difference. Advocacy starts with education, storytelling, and showing up in whatever way you can.
• How the healthcare system actually works. No single insurance company, hospital, or drug maker is to blame for everything. Understanding the whole system is what makes advocacy effective.
• Why your story can change a law. Personal experience is one of the most powerful tools in advocacy. Real patient stories have driven landmark legislation and saved lives.
• PALI, the Patient Advocacy Leadership Initiative. A free monthly program from the Allergy & Asthma Network that teaches patients the language, tools, and knowledge they need to advocate confidently at any level.

More resources

• PALI (Patient Advocacy Leadership Initiative): 
• Allergy & Asthma Day on Capitol Hill (AADCH)
• AAN Advocacy Center, take action today! 

Bills Allergy & Asthma Network is prioritizing this year:

• Safe Step Act
• EPIPEN Act
• HELP Copays Act 
• One School One Nurse Act
• See all the bills on the Network’s Advocacy page

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

In part two of our live recordings from the AAAAI conference in Philadelphia, Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta talk to allergists from across the US about what they actually think about antihistamines.

What we cover in this episode about antihistamines:

• Non-drowsy does not mean the same thing for every antihistamine. Zyrtec, Claritin, and Allegra are all labeled non-drowsy, but some are more likely to make you sleepy than others.
• Why allergists have moved away from Benadryl. First-generation antihistamines cross into the brain more easily, causing drowsiness and a range of other side effects that are far less common with newer antihistamines.
• The foggy feeling might not be your medication. Congestion from untreated allergies disrupts your sleep, and poor sleep creates its own fog. Sometimes it is the disease, not the drug.
• Timing your antihistamine makes a real difference. Taking it before you head out gives it the best chance to work. And if it makes you drowsy, switching to a nighttime dose is a simple fix.
• Not all second-generation antihistamines are approved for pilots. Fexofenadine has the lowest penetration into the brain of any antihistamine tested, which is why the FAA cleared it as the only option pilots can take while flying.

Second-generation antihistamines (non-sedating or minimally sedating)

• Cetirizine — Zyrtec

• Loratadine — Claritin, Alavert

• Fexofenadine — Allegra

• Levocetirizine — Xyzal

• Desloratadine — Clarinex (prescription only)

First-generation antihistamines (sedating)

• Diphenhydramine — Benadryl, ZzzQuil, Unisom

• Chlorpheniramine — Chlor-Trimeton

• Brompheniramine — Dimetapp

• Dimenhydrinate — Dramamine

• Hydroxyzine — Atarax, Vistaril (prescription only)

Thank you to our allergists

A huge thank you to every allergist who stopped what they were doing at the AAAAI conference to talk to us. We could not make this episode without you.

• Dr. Mansi Kotwal, Instagram
• Dr. Lauren Davidson, Instagram
• Dr. Joel Brooks, LinkedIn
• Dr. Pratibha Vakharia, allergyv.com
• Dr. Rathika Gupta
• Dr. David Wertheim

Thanks to Opella for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

In this episode, Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta share real conversations with allergists from across the US about what they actually think about allergy nasal sprays.

What we cover in this episode about allergy nasal sprays

• Why allergists love nasal steroid sprays. They work at the source of the problem by calming swelling inside the nose before your symptoms have a chance to take hold, and you can pick them up at the grocery store without a prescription.
• You may not feel the nasal spray work right away. Nasal steroid sprays need about two weeks of consistent daily use before you feel a difference. The medication is working, you just cannot feel it yet. Do not give up early.
• When to start before allergy season. Starting your spray a couple of weeks before your season hits means you go in with as little swelling inside your nose as possible, giving the medication the best chance to work.
• Why so many patients stop using their spray. Incorrect technique causes irritation and nosebleeds, and means the medication is not landing where it needs to.
• Not all nasal sprays smell or feel the same. If the smell or taste of your spray puts you off, there are options without it, and that is worth a conversation with your allergist or pharmacist.

Thank you to our allergists

A huge thank you to every allergist who stopped what they were doing at the AAAAI conference to talk to us. We could not make this episode without you.

• Dr. Jessica Hui, Instagram | LinkedIn
• Dr. Jamie Rutland, Instagram | Instagram: The Health Exchange Podcast
• Dr. Juan Carlos Murillo, Instagram | LinkedIn
• Dr. Tobi Olayiwola 
• Dr. Jake Rosenblum, LinkedIn
• Dr. David Wertheim
• Dr. Sonali Majmudar, Instagram | LinkedIn

Thanks to Opella for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

In this episode, Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta are joined by Dr. Michael Blaiss and Dr. Anju Peters, an allergist and immunologist at Northwestern University who co-authored the 2025 Adult Sinusitis Clinical Practice Guideline. Together, they break down what chronic sinusitis without nasal polyps (CRSsNP) actually is, what the real quality-of-life impact looks like, and how a proper diagnosis is confirmed.

• Not an infection. Chronic sinusitis without nasal polyps is driven by inflammation lasting 12 weeks or more, not by bacteria or a virus, which is why antibiotics often do not help.
• The hidden quality of life burden. Beyond congestion and sinus pressure, patients commonly experience fatigue, poor sleep, anxiety, depression, and social isolation.
• Why so many patients go years without a correct diagnosis. Symptoms overlap significantly with conditions like allergic rhinitis or migraines. Many patients adapt to feeling unwell rather than seeking answers.
• How doctors confirm the diagnosis. A diagnosis requires objective evidence of inflammation, as seen on nasal endoscopy or a CT scan of the sinuses, not symptoms alone.
• The connection between sinusitis and asthma. The nose, sinuses, and lungs share one connected airway, and about 60% of people with this condition also have asthma, with each capable of making the other worse.

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Insmed for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Kortney and Dr. Gupta are joined by Dr. Tom Chacko, a board-certified allergist and immunologist based in Atlanta, to discuss what good hives control actually looks like and what to do when you are not there yet. From "just living with" your condition to managing a bad flare, tracking your symptoms, and preparing for your follow-up appointment, this episode gives you the tools to stop just coping and start getting better care.

• Chronic spontaneous urticaria. The plain-language definition of CSU, including why hives appear without a clear trigger and what angioedema is.
• The trap of normalizing symptoms. Why patients adjust their lives around hives without realizing it, and how to spot the signs that your condition is not actually controlled.
• How to track your hives. Why symptom tracking helps with diagnosis and better care, and how to use tools like the UAS7 score.
• What to bring to your follow-up appointment. The concrete information your doctor needs to work with you to find the best treatment plan. This includes information about sleep, daily activity, and medication side effects.
• How to ask for more help. What to say when antihistamines are not enough, and what newer treatment options exist for CSU patients today.

• UAS-7 Urticaria Activity Score worksheet

• Allergy & Asthma Network chronic urticaria resources

• More episodes about hives

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Novartis for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

This article looks at the REMIX trials, which tested whether remibrutinib, a BTK inhibitor, can help adults whose chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is not controlled by antihistamines alone. Remibrutinib works differently from antihistamines. Instead of blocking histamine after it's released, it stops mast cells from releasing those itch-causing chemicals in the first place.

The FDA approved remibrutinib in September 2025. 

What we cover in our episode about the REMIX trial:

• Understanding CSU: Chronic spontaneous urticaria causes itchy hives and swelling for more than 6 weeks with no clear trigger, and antihistamines don't work for everyone.
• How remibrutinib works: This BTK inhibitor stops mast cells from releasing chemicals like histamine, rather than blocking histamine after it's already released.
• Why do two identical trials: Running the same study twice (REMIX-1 and REMIX-2) with different patients helps prove the results are real, not a fluke.
• Key results: About half of patients reached well-controlled disease, and about 1 in 3 became completely clear of hives and itch.
• Safety and side effects: Petechiae (tiny dots of bleeding under the skin) were the main thing to watch for, but most cases were mild and went away on their own.

DOWNLOAD THE INFOGRAPHIC

More resources about chronic hives

• Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria - Allergy & Asthma Network
• Chronic Urticaria Toolkit
• What are hives?
• All episodes on urticaria

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The Itch Review, hosted by Dr. Gupta, Kortney, and Dr. Blaiss, explores allergy and immunology studies, breaking down complex research in conversations accessible to clinicians, patients, and caregivers. Each episode provides key insights from journal articles and includes a one-page infographic in the show notes for easy reference.

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Novartis for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

This episode is released around World Anosmia Day because loss of smell is one of the most frustrating and most common symptoms of CRSwNP, and one that treatment can actually help with.

• Nasal therapies as your base management: Saline rinses and nasal steroid sprays are the foundation of CRSwNP treatment. They need to be used consistently as part of your daily routine, not just when symptoms flare.
• Why nasal polyps keep coming back: CRSwNP is driven by ongoing inflammation, not just the polyps themselves, so removing them does not address the root cause.
• When surgery is the right choice: Sinus surgery can open blocked passages and help nasal sprays reach deeper into the sinuses, but works best as part of a long-term plan, not a one-time fix.
• What biologic medications actually do: Biologics target the underlying inflammation causing CRSwNP. Four are currently approved for CRSwNP: dupilumab, omalizumab, mepolizumab, and tezepelumab.
• Why follow-up care matters even when you feel better: Inflammation can return before symptoms become noticeable, so regular check-ins with your allergist or ENT are key to catching early signs of polyp regrowth.

Dr. Maeve O'Connor, MD, FACAAI, FAAAAI, is a board-certified allergist and immunologist and founder of Allergy Asthma & Immunology Relief (AAIR) of Charlotte, North Carolina. She treats patients of all ages, practices integrative medicine, and has been named a Top Doctor by Charlotte Magazine since 2007.

• What is Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps (CRSwNP)?
• What are nasal polyps?
• What is AERD?
• Biologics for Allergic Disease
• What to know before starting a biologic 
• Oral Corticosteroid Stewardship

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Sanofi-Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

This is part two of our series about indoor air quality. We discuss how you can improve your indoor air quality. Kortney shares her experience living in Germany, where ventilating your home isn't just a suggestion, it's practically a lifestyle. We also go room by room with practical tips you can actually use, from washing your sheets in hot water to why that scented candle might need to go.

Part one covered what causes bad indoor air quality and what causes health problems for people with asthma and allergic diseases.

• The art of Lüften, aka house burping: Fully opening your windows for 5 to 10 minutes is better than cracking them all day, but skip it during peak pollen season.
• How to reduce dust mites in your bedroom: Hot water washes, dust mite covers, humidity control between 30 and 50 percent, and keeping stuffed animals off the bed.
• What to know about air purifiers: HEPA filters catch particles, carbon filters catch chemicals, and size matters for your room.
• Some cleaning products may make things worse: Choose fragrance-free products, avoid aerosols and scented candles, and wear a mask while cleaning.
• Kitchen and bathroom tips: Run exhaust fans during and after cooking or showering, check for leaks, and watch your shower curtain for mold.
• Advocating for better air at school and work: Ask about ventilation and MERV filters, and pay attention if your symptoms improve on weekends.

• Allergy & Asthma Network: Healthy at Home
• Allergy & Asthma Network: Healthy at Work
• EPA Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools
• EPA Safer Choice Cleaning Products
• EXHALE Resources
• Listen: Ep. 144: What is Indoor Air Quality and Allergic Disease (Part 1 of 2)

This series is part of the EXHALE project, a set of six evidence-based strategies designed to help people with asthma achieve better health and improved quality of life. This series supports the last "E" in EXHALE by reducing asthma triggers in indoor environments.

This podcast is made in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network

This is a two-part series about indoor air quality.

In the first part, we break down the three main categories of indoor air pollutants: particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and biological allergens like dust mites and mold. Dr. G explains how each one affects the body differently and why people with allergic disease are especially vulnerable.

In part two, we discuss how you can improve your indoor air quality.

• What's actually in your indoor air: The three main categories are particulate matter (PM), VOCs, and biological allergens.
• Why PM2.5 is more dangerous than PM10: PM2.5 is small enough to enter your lungs and bloodstream, while PM10 mostly irritates your nose and throat.
• How we create particulate matter: PM2.5 comes from burning things like cooking, candles, and gas stoves. PM10 comes from dust, construction, and dirt tracked in on shoes.
• The difference between particles and gases: PM2.5 is like tiny specks of dust or smoke. VOCs are invisible gases that cause smells, like that "new car" scent.
• Indoor allergens: Dust mites, mold, pet dander, and cockroach allergens are biological triggers that can cause allergic reactions and worsen asthma.

• Allergy & Asthma Network: Healthy at Home
• Allergy & Asthma Network: Healthy at Work
• EPA Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools
• EPA Safer Choice Cleaning Products
• EXHALE Resources

This series is part of the EXHALE project, a set of six evidence-based strategies designed to help people with asthma achieve better health and improved quality of life. This series supports the last "E" in EXHALE by reducing asthma triggers in indoor environments.

This podcast is made in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network

Dr. Cherie Zachary joins us to share her personal journey into allergy and immunology as both a lifelong patient and clinician. She explains what the ACAAI does and why increasing representation in medicine is critical for improving allergy outcomes. The conversation also tackles the allergist shortage, how physicians are trained, and what is being done to expand fellowship opportunities and improve access to care.

• What the ACAAI actually does for allergy care: How the College supports clinicians and provides patients with trusted, evidence-based education.

• How lived experience shapes leadership: How Dr. Zachary’s own allergic diseases influenced her path into allergy and immunology.

• Why representation matters for allergy outcomes: How culturally responsive care and physician diversity improve trust and health outcomes.

• Why there are not enough allergists: How training bottlenecks contribute to long wait times and limited access to care.

• Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs): Her focus on expanding exposure to allergy through HBCUs and the ACAAI SPARK program.

• American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology

• Listen: Ep. 77: Food Allergy and Its Impact on the Black Community

• Listen: Ep. 108: Interview with Dr. James Tracy

• Listen: Ep. 66: Interview with Dr. Gailen D. Marshall, Jr.

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

We thank the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology for their support of Allergy & Asthma Network and this podcast. 

In this episode, we talk with Lynda Mitchell, CEO of Allergy & Asthma Network. Lynda shares how becoming a food allergy and asthma mom in the early 1990s shaped her career and led her into patient advocacy work. We get into how Allergy & Asthma Network supports patients and families through four mission pillars: education, outreach, advocacy, and research.

• Trusted Messengers and culturally responsive education, and why information is more effective when it comes from people who reflect and understand the community
• Free virtual asthma coaching, and how one-on-one self-management education helps people improve daily asthma control and reduce emergency care
• Patient voice research, what it is, how it differs from clinical trials, and why diversity in clinical trial participation matters
• Advocacy efforts like Capitol Hill Day and PALI, and how patient stories influence laws and policies that affect asthma and allergy care
• Ways to get involved, including resources for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers who want to support or participate in Allergy & Asthma Network’s work

• Allergy & Asthma Network 
• Sign-up for the Allergy & Asthma Network’s Newsletter 
• Get involved with clinical trials and research 
• More about the PALI information session (February 18, 2026)
• Advocacy information
• Virtual asthma coaching program (free asthma self-management education)

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

The lead author, Dr. Kevin Murphy, joins us to talk about “Pediatric Asthma Impairment and Risk Questionnaire: A Control Assessment for Children Aged 5 to 11 Years,” published July 2025 in Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice.

The Peds-AIRQ was designed to improve how doctors identify uncontrolled asthma in children by asking about both current symptoms and past asthma attacks. This approach helps avoid missing children who may seem okay day to day but are at higher risk for future flare-ups.

• Why asthma control in children can be hard to measure
• What “controlled asthma” really means
• Why past asthma attacks matter, even when symptoms seem mild
• What the Peds-AIRQ is and how it works
• How this tool may support better conversations between families and doctors

DOWNLOAD THE INFOGRAPHIC

• Take the Peds-AIRQ questionnaire 
• What is asthma?
• Asthma in Babies and Children
• Childhood Asthma: A Complex Condition That Doesn’t Have to Be So Complicated - video

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The Itch Review, hosted by Dr. Gupta, Kortney, and Dr. Blaiss, explores allergy and immunology studies, breaking down complex research in conversations accessible to clinicians, patients, and caregivers. Each episode provides key insights from journal articles and includes a one-page infographic in the show notes for easy reference.

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to AstraZeneca for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Sleep affects mood, focus, immune function, and inflammation, all of which influence how allergic conditions show up day to day. Poor sleep can worsen asthma symptoms, increase allergy flares, and make eczema harder to control. At the same time, allergies and asthma can disrupt sleep, creating a cycle that is difficult to break.

Dr. Carol Yuan-Duclair, a sleep specialist, joins us to explore how sleep impacts allergic conditions and overall health. She breaks down what good sleep actually looks like, how to know if you are getting enough rest, and how sleep quality can directly affect allergies, asthma, and eczema.

This conversation focuses on practical guidance for patients and families, including environmental changes, medication considerations, and when it may be time to seek help from a sleep specialist.

• Why sleep is essential for health and immune function: How sleep affects inflammation, mood, and overall health, and why poor sleep can worsen allergic disease.

• What good quality sleep actually looks like: The difference between sleep quality and sleep quantity, and how to tell if your sleep is truly restorative.

• The two-way relationship between sleep and allergies: How allergies can disrupt sleep, and how poor sleep can worsen allergy symptoms, creating a difficult cycle.

• Practical ways to improve sleep when you have allergies: Sleep hygiene basics, exercise timing, and creating a healthier bedroom environment.

• When medications or symptoms mean it is time to see a specialist: How allergy medications can affect sleep, how eczema fits into the picture, and when ongoing sleep issues may signal the need for a sleep specialist.

Marion Groetch, a registered dietitian with decades of experience in food allergy care and education, joins us to unpack all things food labels. Together, we break down U.S. allergen labeling laws, what parts of the package actually matter, and why “may contain” statements are a much grayer area than most people realize. We also share practical tips for navigating so-called “mystery ingredients” like natural flavors and oils, when it is worth contacting a manufacturer, and how to avoid being more restrictive than necessary while still staying safe.

• What U.S. labeling laws require: How FALCPA and the FASTER Act protect families by requiring clear disclosure of the Top 9 major allergens.
• Where allergy information actually lives on a label: Why the ingredients list and “Contains” statement matter most, and why front-of-package claims should be ignored.
• What “may contain” actually means: Why these statements are voluntary and unregulated, and what that means for real-world decision-making.
• Foods that fall outside labeling laws: Common situations where allergen labeling is not required, including deli foods, restaurant meals, airline meals, and alcohol.
• How to avoid over-restricting your diet: Practical guidance on mystery ingredients, higher-risk products, and when contacting a manufacturer actually makes sense.

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Genentech for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

In this episode, we review “Prevalence of KIT D816V in anaphylaxis or systemic mast cell activation,” published in October 2025 in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. This paper, known as the PROSPECTOR trial, is looking at how often the KIT D816V mutation can be found using a blood test in adults who have had anaphylaxis or systemic mast cell activation symptoms.

We break down why KIT D816V matters, how it connects to systemic mastocytosis, why HaT needs to be considered, and how newer blood tests may help doctors catch clonal mast cell disease earlier.

• Setting the stage: Understanding mast cell activation and anaphylaxis.
• Why KIT D816V matters: How this mutation fits into clonal mast cell disease, what blood testing can reveal, and when doctors still turn to a bone marrow biopsy.
• Making sense of tryptase and hereditary alpha-tryptasemia (HaT): Why baseline tryptase, the “20% + 2” rule, and HaT can make screening more complicated than it seems.
• What the PROSPECTOR trial uncovered: How often KIT D816V appeared in people with anaphylaxis, and other results on tryptase and HaT.
• How this helps patients: What these findings mean for anyone with unexplained or severe anaphylaxis, and how doctors combine KIT testing, tryptase, HaT, and symptoms to decide on next steps.

Other podcast episodes about mast cell disease:

• Ep. 127: Management of indolent mastocytosis - A clinical yardstick
• Ep. 126: Management of mast cell activation syndrome - A clinical yardstick
• Ep. 121: Avapritinib vs Placebo in Indolent Systemic Mastocytosis - PIONEER Trial
• Ep. 118: The ISM Disconnect - Do Patients and Providers Agree on Symptom Control?
• Ep. 70 How do stress and low histamine diets impact mast cell disease?
• Ep. 63: Mast Cell Diseases & Systemic Mastocytosis: The Basic Science
• Ep. 65: The Symptoms and Triggers of Mast Cell Disease

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The Itch Review, hosted by Dr. Gupta, Kortney, and Dr. Blaiss, explores allergy and immunology studies, breaking down complex research in conversations accessible to clinicians, patients, and caregivers. Each episode provides key insights from journal articles and includes a one-page infographic in the show notes for easy reference.

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Blueprint Medicines for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Dr. Tonya Farmer, a board-certified ENT, joins Kortney and Dr. G to explain how chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is diagnosed. She walks us through the full evaluation: what symptoms matter, what a nasal endoscopy actually shows, when a CT scan is needed, and how type 2 inflammation fits into the picture.

• Key symptoms: Persistent congestion, drainage, facial pressure, and especially loss of smell are major red flags for CRSwNP.
• Why duration matters: Chronic means 12 weeks or longer. If symptoms keep coming back or never truly improve, it’s time to look deeper.
• The physical exam: ENTs use nasal endoscopy to see swelling, mucus, or polyps that aren’t visible from the outside.
• When CT scans are needed: Imaging helps confirm sinus inflammation and shows the extent of polyp growth.
• Additional testing: Allergy testing, IgE levels, eosinophils, and other immune markers help identify type 2 inflammation and guide next steps.
• When to see a specialist: If antibiotics, steroids, or over-the-counter treatments aren’t helping, ask for a referral to an allergist or ENT. Early diagnosis can prevent worsening symptoms and reduce the need for surgery.

Set the foundations: Ep. 133: What is Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps (CRSwNP)?

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Sanofi-Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta talk with Dr. Shahzad Mustafa, a board-certified allergist and immunologist, about how patients can navigate today’s food allergy treatments with confidence. Together, they explore what to consider before starting OIT or Xolair, how to set realistic expectations, and why strict avoidance is still the right choice for many families.

• Food Allergy Avoidance: Why it remains an effective and valid approach for many, and how to make it work in daily life, including the nuances that make every case unique.
• Oral Immunotherapy (OIT): What it involves, who it’s best suited for, and what families should know about time, cost, and safety.
• Xolair (omalizumab): How this injection therapy works to reduce reactions from accidental exposures and what it doesn’t do.
• Setting expectations: How to talk with your allergist about your goals, quality of life, and what “success” really looks like.

More episodes about food allergies

• Ep. 129: Omalizumab for Multiple Food Allergies – The OUtMATCH Trial
• Ep. 98: Food Allergy Treatment and Management

More resources about food allergies

• Food Allergy Treatment & Management

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Genentech for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta sit down with Elizabeth Elliott, a school nurse and President of the Maryland Association of School Health Nurses. Liz shares what really happens inside the health room and how school nurses coordinate care for students with food allergies and asthma. Plus, why communication between families and school staff is key to keeping kids safe.

After this episode, you’ll have a whole new appreciation for your school nurse and a better understanding of how to partner with them to make every school day safer for kids with allergies.

• The school nurse’s role: How nurses bridge communication between families, teachers, and doctors to keep children with food allergies safe and included during the school day.
• Coordinating care: How school nurses use action plans and 504s to ensure everyone, from teachers to cafeteria staff, knows how to keep kids safe.
• Training and emergency preparedness: How school nurses teach staff to recognize anaphylaxis, use epinephrine, and stay calm during an emergency.
• Field trips, cafeterias, and bus safety: What goes into planning safe experiences beyond the classroom, and why “no-food on the bus” rules really matter.
• Advocating for resources: How families can support their school nurses and advocate for better funding, staffing, and allergy awareness in schools.

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Genentech for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

In this episode, we break down the study: “Effect of Dupilumab on Mucus Burden in Patients with Moderate-to-Severe Asthma,” published October 28, 2025. The analysis looks at whether dupilumab (Dupixent), a biologic that blocks IL-4 and IL-13, can lower mucus burden and improve lung function, especially in people who start with a high “mucus plug score.”

• Why mucus plugging matters in asthma: Discover how thick, sticky mucus can block airways, make it harder to breathe, and why standard inhalers and steroids don’t clear these plugs.
• How dupilumab may help: Learn how this biologic blocks IL-4 and IL-13, two key drivers of type 2 inflammation that increase mucus production and thickness.
• Inside the VESTIGE study: Hear how researchers measured mucus burden using CT scans and “mucus plug scores” to see if dupilumab could reduce plugging in moderate-to-severe asthma.
• What the results showed: Find out how dupilumab lowered mucus plug scores, reduced airway inflammation, and improved lung function (FEV₁), especially in people with high mucus burden.
• What this means for patients: Learn why identifying and treating mucus plugging may help improve breathing, reduce flare-ups, and make asthma easier to manage day to day.

📌INFOGRAPHIC to follow along 

RESOURCES:

• What is asthma?

• What is type 2 inflammation?

• When Asthma Is More Than Just Asthma: Type 2 Inflammation

• More about dupilumab (Dupixent)

The Itch Review, hosted by Dr. Gupta, Kortney, and Dr. Blaiss, explores allergy and immunology studies, breaking down complex research in conversations accessible to clinicians, patients, and caregivers. Each episode provides key insights from journal articles and includes a one-page infographic in the show notes for easy reference.

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A special collaboration with the American Thoracic Society. 

This podcast was made in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Dr. Rohit Katial joins Kortney and Dr. G to unpack what CRSwNP really is, how it develops, and why type 2 inflammation plays such a key role. Together, they explain what’s happening inside the sinuses, what symptoms to look for, and when it’s time to see a specialist.

• What CRSwNP means: Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps is long-term inflammation of the nose and sinuses that lasts 12 weeks or more.
• What nasal polyps are: Soft, fluid-filled sacs (often “grape” or “pea” sized) that block airflow and lead to congestion and smell loss.
• Why it happens: Type 2 inflammation drives CRSwNP. Immune messengers like IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 cause swelling and fluid buildup in the nasal lining.
• Who it affects: CRSwNP often overlaps with asthma, allergies, or aspirin sensitivity (AERD or Samter’s Triad), making symptoms worse.
• When to seek help: If congestion, pressure, or loss of smell lasts more than 12 weeks, see an allergist or an ENT specialist. Early care can prevent sinus damage and improve breathing and quality of life.

More episodes to support CRSwNP

• Ep. 101: What is Type 2 Inflammation?
• Ep. 102: Comorbidities of Type 2 Inflammation -  Connecting the Dots Between Multiple Allergic Conditions
• Ep. 109: Tezepelumab & Nasal Polyps - Inside the WAYPOINT Phase III Trial

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to AstraZeneca & Amgen for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta sit down with psychologist Dr. Amanda Whitehouse to talk about how families can find common ground when emotions run high. Together, they unpack what it means to stay regulated in difficult conversations, how to set healthy boundaries with family members, and why understanding different coping styles can help prevent conflict before it starts.

• Coping styles and conflict: Learn how different stress responses, such as “fight” versus “flight,” shape how partners, parents, and relatives react to food allergy challenges.
• Staying calm and regulated: Understand how your body reacts to stress and how recognizing those signals can help you stay grounded during tough conversations.
• Setting and holding boundaries: Get practical tips for explaining what feels safe, keeping communication clear, and responding calmly when others push back.
• Working together as a team: Whether it’s with your partner, kids, or extended family, learn how to support each other and stay united when emotions rise.
• Bridging family differences: Explore ways to include children and siblings in allergy safety, and approach older relatives with patience and compassion when views or communication styles differ.

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Genentech for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Dr. Payel Gupta and Kortney are joined by Dr. Matthew Giannetti to unpack what BTK actually does and why inhibiting it represents an exciting breakthrough in allergy and immunology. Together, they explore how BTK inhibitors work, why this inside-the-cell approach is different from anything before, and what it could mean for people living with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU).

• BTK explained: Bruton’s tyrosine kinase is a pivotal “last step” before mast-cell degranulation.
• How BTK inhibitors work: Blocking BTK can stop histamine release downstream of many outside triggers.
• The science: Why BTK binding is irreversible for each molecule and how the body “re-makes” BTK over time.
• Safety in brief: A look at petechiae (small pinpoint spots), what to monitor, and how shared decision-making guides treatment choices.
• The future of BTK inhibitors: Exploring their potential role in other allergic conditions. 

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Novartis for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

In this episode, we sit down with telemedicine pioneer Dr. Jay Portnoy to explore how virtual allergy care works, what it can and can’t do, and how it’s helping patients get the care they need without the wait or the long drive.

Dr. Portnoy shares over two decades of experience leading allergy telemedicine programs in rural areas and explains how remote care has grown from a fringe idea into a standard part of allergy care. He and Dr. G also discuss the benefits for both patients and clinicians.

So how do you know when telehealth is enough and when it’s not?

What we cover in our episode about virtual allergy care and telemedicine:

• How does telemedicine work for allergy patients? Learn how video visits and asynchronous tools are making care faster and easier, especially in rural or underserved areas.
• Telemendine limitations. We break down when in-person care is still needed, like for food challenges, skin tests, or urgent symptoms.
• Privacy and safety in virtual care. From HIPAA-compliant platforms to quiet spaces at home or in schools, we talk about how to keep your virtual visit just as private as a clinic one.
• How testing works with telemedicine. Telehealth doesn’t mean skipping tests. Many can be ordered remotely and done at a local lab or clinic near you.
• The future of allergy care. Hear how virtual care is shifting toward patient choice, whether you want to video call, send a message, or still come in.

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Genentech for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

In this episode, we break down the study: “Omalizumab for the Treatment of Multiple Food Allergies,” published in 2024 in the New England Journal of Medicine. Known as the OUtMATCH trial, it’s the first large-scale study to show that omalizumab (Xolair), a biologic already used for asthma and hives, may help people with multiple food allergies by raising the threshold for reactions.

We explain how omalizumab works by blocking IgE, the antibody that triggers allergic reactions, and how the study measured changes in reaction thresholds (the amount of an allergen a person can ingest before reacting). We also explore the trial design, results, safety profile, and what all of this means for the day-to-day management of food allergies.

• How omalizumab works to prevent allergic reactions: Learn how blocking IgE increases the amount of allergen needed to trigger symptoms, offering protection from small, accidental exposures.
• Who qualified for the OUtMATCH trial and why: Find out which patients were included and how eligibility impacted outcomes.
• What success looked like in this study: Understand how researchers defined protection across multiple allergens.
• Why not everyone responded the same to omalizumab: Explore the variability in results and what it means for clinical care.
• What else the study found beyond food challenges: Hear about safety findings, quality of life data, and the open-label extension.

📌 INFOGRAPHIC to follow along 

The Itch Review, hosted by Dr. Gupta, Kortney, and Dr. Blaiss, explores allergy and immunology studies, breaking down complex research in conversations accessible to clinicians, patients, and caregivers. Each episode provides key insights from journal articles and includes a one-page infographic in the show notes for easy reference.

___

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Genentech for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

In this episode, Dr. Payel Gupta and Kortney unpack what it means for CSU to be autoimmune and autoallergic. They explain how IgE and IgG antibodies can trigger histamine release, leading to hives and swelling. You’ll also learn why allergy testing isn’t useful for diagnosing CSU, and how tests like IgG food sensitivity panels can do more harm than good by leading to unnecessary food avoidance and confusion.

What we cover in our episode about autoimmune CSU and chronic hives:

• Is CSU an allergy? Why CSU is often mistaken for an allergic reaction—and why standard allergy tests rarely provide helpful answers.
• How the immune system works in CSU: What mast cells are, how they release histamine, and their central role in chronic spontaneous urticaria.
• Understanding autoimmune CSU: Learn how the immune system can trigger hives from within, including the roles of IgE and IgG antibodies.
• Autoimmune hives explained: We explore how CSU can be autoimmune, why the immune system may attack itself, and what Type I and Type IIb autoimmune CSU really mean.

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Novartis for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

We continue our review of “Management of indolent mastocytosis and mast cell activation syndrome - A clinical yardstick,” published in June 2025 in The Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. This is Part 2 of our discussion, with a focus on indolent systemic mastocytosis. We look at what causes it, how it’s diagnosed, and how to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

In this episode, we break down this complex mast cell disease and how doctors use baseline serum tryptase, KIT D816V testing, and HaT screening to find answers. Plus, we explain how treatments like antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers, and avapritinib can help people live better with ISM.

📌 INFOGRAPHIC to follow along

• Yardsticks explained: Why the ACAAI uses yardsticks as practical, interim guidelines before full consensus statements are available.
• Understanding mast cell diseases: The difference between primary (clonal), secondary (allergic), and idiopathic mast cell disorders.
• Diagnosing ISM: KIT D816V mutation, WHO/ICC criteria, baseline serum tryptase, and when to test for hereditary alpha-tryptasemia (HaT).
• Symptoms of ISM: Why symptoms vary and how they can involve multiple systems, including skin, GI tract, cardiovascular, and even neuropsychiatric.
• Management strategies: Trigger avoidance, antihistamines, leukotriene blockers, sodium cromolyn, aspirin therapy, and, when venom immunotherapy is appropriate.
• Targeted treatment: How avapritinib works and what the PIONEER study shows about its role in ISM.

The Itch Review, hosted by Dr. Gupta, Kortney, and Dr. Blaiss, explores allergy and immunology studies, breaking down complex research in conversations accessible to clinicians, patients, and caregivers. Each episode provides key insights from journal articles and includes a one-page infographic in the show notes for easy reference.

___

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Blueprint Medicines for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

We review the findings from “Management of indolent mastocytosis and mast cell activation syndrome - A clinical yardstick,” published in June 2025 in The Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Because the paper covers both diseases, we’ve split it into two parts. This episode focuses on mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS).

GET THE INFOGRAPHIC - summary of this episode

• Yardsticks explained: Why the ACAAI uses yardsticks as practical, interim guidelines before full consensus statements are available.
• Classifying mast cell disorders: Primary (clonal), secondary (allergy/autoimmune), and idiopathic (MCAS).
• MCAS diagnosis criteria: Symptoms in 2 or more organ systems, objective evidence (serum tryptase or urinary metabolites tests), and positive response to therapy.
• Treatment strategies: Include trigger avoidance, H1/H2 antihistamines, leukotriene blockers, mast cell stabilizers (such as cromolyn and aspirin), off-label biologics like omalizumab, and epinephrine.
• Neuropsychiatric symptoms: Brain fog, anxiety, and depression are common and require multidisciplinary management.

The Itch Review, hosted by Dr. Gupta, Kortney, and Dr. Blaiss, explores allergy and immunology studies, breaking down complex research in conversations accessible to clinicians, patients, and caregivers. Each episode provides key insights from journal articles and includes a one-page infographic in the show notes for easy reference.

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Blueprint Medicines for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Asthma mom, Sherrina Gibson, joins us to share how her family prepares her 11-year-old daughter for fall asthma challenges. She talks about cleaning routines, school planning, and teaching her daughter self-awareness and empowerment. Dr. Payel Gupta adds medical guidance on asthma action plans and seasonal medication adjustments.

You’ll learn how to spot asthma triggers, prepare your home and school, and teach children to recognize symptoms early so they can act before a flare gets worse.

• Parenting with asthma: Sherrina Gibson shares her family’s journey and how they prepare their home and routines each fall.

• Asthma management strategies: Cleaning, decluttering, updating medications, and coordinating with schools and coaches.

• Asthma Peak Week explained: Why symptoms spike in September and how to get ahead of it.

• Asthma action plans: Why every family needs one and how to keep copies at home, school, and on the go.

• Empowering kids with asthma: Teaching children to recognize symptoms, use their inhaler properly, and advocate for themselves at school and in sports.

More episodes about asthma

• Ep. 81: Why asthma attacks rise in September peak week
• Ep. 58: What is controlled Asthma? - Everything you need to know!
• Ep. 117: As-Needed Albuterol–Budesonide in Mild Asthma (BATURA Trial)
• Ep. 124: Asthma peak week and understanding triggers

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to AstraZeneca and Amgen for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Allergist Dr. Kristin Sokol joins us to discuss seasonal asthma triggers, why fall can be especially risky, and how you can prepare to keep your asthma under control.

You’ll learn how to identify your personal triggers, steps to reduce your exposure, and why staying consistent with your medication routine is critical. We also cover tools like an asthma action plan, preparing for school, and making sure caregivers and teachers know how to respond to an asthma flare.

What we cover in our episode about managing asthma triggers during the fall:

• Understanding asthma: learn why even mild asthma should be reviewed before the fall.
• Identifying triggers: from indoor allergens to seasonal pollen and surprising emotional triggers, know what can set off your asthma.
• Preparing for Asthma Peak Week: discover how viruses, ragweed pollen, and stress combine into a dangerous flare period and how to get ahead of it.
• Staying in control: strategies to avoid or reduce asthma trigger exposure, prepare for school, and keep your asthma action plan up to date.
• Supporting everyone with asthma: special considerations for adults, caregivers, and teachers to stay healthy and ready year-round.

More episodes about asthma

• Ep. 81: Why asthma attacks rise in September peak week
• Ep. 58: What is controlled Asthma? - Everything you need to know!
• Ep. 117: As-Needed Albuterol–Budesonide in Mild Asthma (BATURA Trial)

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to AstraZeneca and Amgen for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

We explore how chronic stress, fear, and anxiety can affect parenting, relationships, and family dynamics. Plus, why supporting the mental health of allergy parents is crucial for the entire family’s well-being.

Tamara breaks down evidence-based tools from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help parents manage food allergy anxiety, build confidence, and feel less alone on this lifelong journey.

• Tamara’s journey from substance abuse counselor to food allergy mental health advocate
• Why she wrote May Contain Anxiety and how it’s different from typical self-help books
• A breakdown of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and how it supports allergy parents
• The impact of food allergy anxiety on the whole family system, from parenting dynamics to sibling relationships
• Why this book is valuable for every stage of the allergy journey and helpful for allergists and extended family, too

May Contain Anxiety is available worldwide in English on September 30th, 2025.

Get 30% off by buying it at Hopkins Press and using the code: HMCA25

We review the findings from “Mortality in adult patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria: A real-world cohort study,” published in April 2025, in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. While CSU is often considered a non-life-threatening condition, this large study found something surprising: people with CSU had a significantly higher risk of death, especially from suicide.

Dr. G and Dr. Blaiss walk through key takeaways from a dataset of over 272,000 CSU patients and nearly 13 million matched controls. They explore what the results mean for mortality risk, clinical care, mental health screening, and the importance of proper, guideline-based treatment.

• What is CSU? Chronic hives are an unpredictable, itchy, and sometimes painful condition. It lasts for 6 weeks or longer and can continue for years.
• Mental health connection: CSU affects more than skin. Anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts are common and serious concerns.
• Study findings: CSU was associated with higher mortality at 3 months, 1 year, and 5 years. Suicide risk was over 3 times higher than in people without CSU.
• Demographics: Younger and White patients with CSU had the highest increase in risk.
• Treatment impact: Patients using guideline-recommended treatments like second-generation antihistamines or omalizumab had lower death rates.

INFOGRAPHIC

The Itch Review, hosted by Dr. Gupta, Kortney, and Dr. Blaiss, explores allergy and immunology studies, breaking down complex research in conversations accessible to clinicians, patients, and caregivers. Each episode provides key insights from journal articles and includes a one-page infographic in the show notes for easy reference.

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Novartis for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

In this episode of The Itch Review, we unpack key findings from the article “Avapritinib versus Placebo in Indolent Systemic Mastocytosis,” published on May 23, 2023, in NEJM Evidence.

Indolent Systemic Mastocytosis (ISM) is a rare chronic disease with life-altering symptoms. Until recently, treatment options were limited. We break down new data from Part 2 of the PIONEER study, which evaluated Avapritinib, a targeted therapy designed to inhibit the KIT D816V mutation that drives ISM.

Dr. Gupta and Dr. Blaiss explain how Avapritinib works, how the study was designed, and what outcomes were measured, including the Total Symptom Score (TSS). Most importantly, we explore what this treatment could mean for patients with moderate to severe ISM.

INFOGRAPHIC

• Understanding ISM: How the KIT D816V mutation causes overproduction and overactivation of mast cells.
• Why current treatment falls short: The limitations of best supportive care and why many patients remain symptomatic despite multiple medications.
• How Avapritinib works: A tyrosine kinase inhibitor that targets the KIT mutation directly, aiming to reduce mast cell activation at its source.
• Inside the PIONEER trial: Study design, eligibility criteria, and how outcomes like Total Symptom Score (TSS) and serum tryptase were measured.
• What the data showed: Improvements in symptoms, lab markers, and quality of life and what this could mean for long-term ISM care.

The Itch Review, hosted by Dr. Gupta, Kortney, and Dr. Blaiss, explores allergy and immunology studies, breaking down complex research in conversations accessible to clinicians, patients, and caregivers. Each episode provides key insights from journal articles and includes a one-page infographic in the show notes for easy reference.

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Blueprint Medicines for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Dr. Nikki Chase, a board-certified allergist-immunologist, joins us to share what families need to know to prepare for a safe and successful school year. From school forms and emergency plans to when to self-carry epinephrine and how to teach self-advocacy, this episode is filled with practical, real-life guidance.

We discuss how to make the most of your summer doctor visits, why early planning matters, and how newer epinephrine options, like the nasal spray, may help reduce fear and delay in use. You’ll also hear Dr. Chase’s advice on helping kids build confidence and take ownership of their allergy care.

•  504 plans explained: What they are, how to request one, and why they matter for legal protection and clear school accommodations.
• Anaphylaxis Action Plans: What’s included, how they differ from 504 plans, and why they take the guesswork out of emergencies.
• Epinephrine device options: From auto-injectors to nasal spray, what’s available and how to choose the best fit for your child.
• What to work on this summer to build allergy confidence: The rules, responsibilities, and privileges kids should practice to stay safe and feel more in control.
• Self-advocacy & communication tips: How to help your child speak up, navigate cafeteria dynamics, and respond to food allergy bullying.

• Planning for School with Food Allergies
• School Plans for Students with Food Allergies
• Managing Allergies in Schools: A Guide for Staff
• Epinephrine for Anaphylaxis: What Treatments are Available?
• Food Allergy Treatment & Management

Produced in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to ARS Pharma for sponsoring this episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

How do you process everything that went down, from ingesting the allergen to using epinephrine? In this candid conversation, Kortney sits down with Tamara Hubbard, a licensed clinical professional counselor, to unpack the emotional aftermath of a severe allergic reaction.

Kortney shares her own recent experience of self-administering epinephrine for the first time after over 30 years of living with food allergies. Together, they explore how guilt, self-doubt, and family dynamics can shape recovery and how to move forward without letting fear or shame take over.

• The moment Kortney realized she needed to self-inject epinephrine and why it felt empowering.
• Why it’s common to second-guess yourself during an allergic reaction.
• The unique guilt and blame that can surface after a reaction, even when you did everything right.
• How to handle well-meaning but unhelpful comments from family and friends.
• Tips for processing the event without letting it define your future.

Tamara Hubbard, MA, LCPC is a licensed clinical professional counselor and the founder of the Food Allergy Counselor Directory & Website. She specializes in helping individuals and families navigate the emotional and mental health challenges that come with managing food allergies. Tamara is passionate about empowering people to build confidence and resilience while living safely with food allergies.

Learn more about Tamara’s work at FoodAllergyCounselor.com.

In this episode of The Itch Review, we unpack key findings from a May 4, 2025, descriptive study from The Journal of the Advanced Practitioner in Oncology, “Patient and Advanced Practitioner Perspectives on Symptom Burden and Symptom Management in Indolent Systemic Mastocytosis.”

Is there a disconnect between what patients feel and what providers think when it comes to indolent systemic mastocytosis (ISM)? A new study suggests yes, revealing a mismatch between how patients and advanced practitioners (APs) perceive disease control and what that means for care. This episode dives into whether research like this could help bridge the gap between patient experience and clinical perspective.

• Understanding ISM: What makes indolent systemic mastocytosis a unique multisystem condition?
• Symptom burden explained: Frequency, severity, duration, distress, and functional interference.
• Patient vs practitioner views: Understanding the most impactful symptoms differs from patient to AP. 
• Practical tools: The Indolent Systemic Mastocytosis-Symptom Assessment Form (ISM-SAF) is a validated instrument that can be used to determine symptoms and severity.
• Barriers and solutions: Why tracking symptoms is hard and how clinics can improve coordination.
• AP-focused Toolkit: Resources to help nurse practitioners, PAs, and pharmacists provide patient-centered ISM care.

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The Itch Review, hosted by Dr. Gupta, Kortney, and Dr. Blaiss, explores the latest allergy and immunology studies, breaking down complex research in conversations accessible to clinicians, patients, and caregivers. Each episode provides key insights from journal articles and includes a one-page infographic in the show notes for easy reference.

***

This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Blueprint Medicines for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

In this episode of The Itch Review, we spotlight “As-Needed Albuterol–Budesonide in Mild Asthma” published in The New England Journal of Medicine, May 19, 2025. This article looks at the BATURA trial, which tested whether adding budesonide to albuterol rescue inhalers cuts exacerbations in adults whose mild asthma remains uncontrolled on occasional albuterol/short-acting beta agonist (SABA) therapy.

Could this combo inhaler really cut severe asthma attacks in people with mild disease?

• Understanding asthma: In asthma, your airways both tighten up and get swollen. Treating both the tightness and the swelling right when you feel symptoms could stop a full-blown attack.
• All-online trial: BATURA used telehealth to enroll 2,516 people with mild asthma from across the U.S. and ran the study until it saw a preset number of 172 serious attacks.
• Big takeaways: The combo inhaler cut serious attacks by almost half, halved yearly flare-ups, and slashed steroid use by 63%. All without people needing to use their medication more often.
• Why it ended early: An independent safety board reviewed the data mid-trial and concluded that the combo inhaler was so clearly better that it would’ve been unfair to continue giving anyone the old treatment.
• What’s next: We still need studies on teens and children to ensure that these same benefits hold true for younger patients.

GET THE INFOGRAPHIC PDF HERE

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The Itch Review, hosted by Dr. Gupta, Kortney, and Dr. Blaiss, explores the latest allergy and immunology studies, breaking down complex research in conversations accessible to clinicians, patients, and caregivers. Each episode provides key insights from journal articles and includes a one-page infographic in the show notes for easy reference.

***

This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to AstraZeneca for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

In this episode of The Itch Review, we dissect a July 2024 systematic review from Current Medical Research & Opinion, “Why fexofenadine is considered a truly non-sedating antihistamine with no brain penetration.” 

This rigorous systematic review pools over 60 human studies from PET brain-scan trials and Proportional Impairment Ratio (PIR) tests to driving-simulator research and real-world quality-of-life surveys. It looks to answer one question: Does fexofendine ever sneak past the blood–brain barrier and slow you down like first-generation allergy meds?

This episode looks at the evolution of H1 antihistamines from first-generation drugs like diphenhydramine to today’s second-generation options (cetirizine, loratadine, and fexofenadine) to show how each interacts with the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and why that matters for sedation.

We highlight the review’s key studies:

• PET Imaging: Measuring H1-receptor occupancy. Fexofenadine registers <1%, even at high doses
• PIR Analyses: Proportional Impairment Ratio tests show virtually zero cognitive or motor impairment when taking fexofenadine
• Driving & Aviator Trials: Side-by-side comparisons with diphenhydramine, alcohol, and fexofenadine

Finally, we dive into real-world outcomes on reaction times, work-and-school performance, pediatric safety, and even NASA’s approval for pilot use.

GET THE INFOGRAPHIC TO FOLLOW ALONG

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The Itch Review, hosted by Dr. Gupta, Kortney, and Dr. Blaiss, explores the latest allergy and immunology studies through 30-minute conversations that are accessible for everyone. This podcast aims to support busy clinicians, patients, and caregivers in staying updated on current research. Each episode provides valuable insights from key journal articles and includes a convenient one-page infographic in the show notes for easy reference.

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This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Opella for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

For teens and young adults with food allergies, early adulthood is an exciting but challenging shift. It’s the first time you’re the primary communicator, managing everything from dining halls to doctor’s appointments on your own. Add in new living spaces, new friends, and a growing social life, and there’s a lot to navigate.

Dr. Theresa Bingemann joins Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta to unpack how food allergy management changes as you step into early adulthood. We cover self-advocacy skills, emergency preparedness, how to create allergy-friendly spaces in shared housing, and tips for navigating social life safely. Plus, we dive into practical advice for managing stress, staying emotionally healthy, and finding your footing in this new phase of life.

• Self-advocacy matters. Learn how to speak up about your allergies with confidence.
• Planning ahead for emergencies. Practicing with an epinephrine device is not just for kids! Plus, knowing the available campus resources is key to feeling secure in your food allergy management.
• Creating a safe living space. Tips for setting up allergy-friendly dorm rooms and kitchens with roommates.
• Navigating social life. How to handle parties, dating, and dining out while staying safe.
• Managing emotional well-being. Support strategies for handling anxiety, stress, and the transition to independence.

Episode 6 in our “Food Allergies: Ages & Stages” series 

Across six episodes, we explore how food allergies show up and shift through different phases of life, from introducing solids in infancy to navigating school and adapting in adulthood. We’re here with evidence-based info, expert insights, and lived experience to guide you through it all.

• Episode 110: Early Allergen Introduction
• Episode 111: Food Allergy Basics for Newly Diagnosed Families
• Episode 112: Managing Food Allergies in Babies and Toddlers
• Episode 113: Managing Food Allergies in School-Age Children
• Episode 114: Managing Food Allergies in Teens

AAAAI Ages & Stages PDFs

• Food Allergy Stages: Young Adults (18–21 years)

Thanks to Genentech and Aquestive for sponsoring this episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Managing food allergies during the teen years poses new challenges. Tweens and teens are gaining independence, navigating social pressures, and taking more responsibility for their health. But this is also the stage where risky behavior peaks, and the risk for severe allergic reactions is highest. That’s why clear communication and trust matter more than ever.

In this episode of our Food Allergy Stages Series, Dr. Travis Miller joins Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta to unpack how food allergy management changes from ages 12 to 18. We talk about empowering teens through shared decision-making, building trust between parents and teens, and developing essential life skills like label reading, restaurant communication, and self-advocacy. We also dive into difficult topics like bullying, alcohol, and mental health. Finally, we address why emotional support is just as important as carrying an epinephrine auto-injector.

• Why trust matters. Teens are more likely to follow allergy routines when they feel heard and involved.
• Empowering independence. From grocery shopping to reading labels, this is the age to start turning over the reins.
• Talking about risky behavior. Alcohol and dating can put teens with food allergies at higher risk.
• Bullying and boundaries. Learn how to spot signs of bullying and who can help your teen feel safe and supported.
• Mental health and identity. Food allergies can affect confidence. We share ways to support emotional wellness and self-esteem.

Episode 5 in our “Food Allergies: Ages & Stages” series 

Across six episodes, we explore how food allergies show up and shift through different phases of life, from introducing solids in infancy to navigating school and adapting in adulthood. We’re here with evidence-based info, expert insights, and lived experience to guide you through it all.

• Episode 110: Early Allergen Introduction
• Episode 111: Food Allergy Basics for Newly Diagnosed Families
• Episode 112: Managing Food Allergies in Babies and Toddlers
• Episode 113: Managing Food Allergies in School-Age Children

Thanks to Genentech and Aquestive for sponsoring this episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

This is the stage when everything starts to shift. Between the ages of 5 and 11, your child is learning how to describe symptoms, speak up at school, and navigate birthday parties. They’re also watching you closely and picking up how to talk about food allergies based on how you do it.

In this episode of our Food Allergy Stages & Stages Series, pediatric allergist and immunologist Dr. Dave Stukus joins Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta to talk about how food allergy care changes in the early school years. 

• Build awareness early. Teach kids to name their allergens, recognize symptoms, and use simple words to describe how they feel.
• Model safe behavior. Kids learn by watching you read labels, ask questions, and stay calm.
• Normalize epinephrine. Practice with a trainer and talk about it openly so it feels familiar, not scary.
• Prepare for real-life situations. From school to parties, give kids scripts and strategies to feel confident and included.
• Support emotional wellness. Watch for signs of anxiety and help your child feel empowered, not afraid.

Episode 4 in our “Food Allergies: Ages & Stages” series 

Across six episodes, we explore how food allergies show up and shift through different phases of life, from introducing solids in infancy to navigating school and adapting in adulthood. We’re here with evidence-based info, expert insights, and lived experience to guide you through it all.

• Episode 1: Early Allergen Introduction (Ep. 110)
• Episode 2: Food Allergy Basics for Newly Diagnosed Families (Ep. 111)
• Episode 3: Managing Food Allergies in Babies and Toddlers (Ep. 112)

Made in partnership with the Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Genentech and Aquestive for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Timestamps

01:42 Breaking down food allergy care by age group

02:58 What kids need to know about living with food allergies

04:47 Sharing allergy information without creating fear

06:40 Talking to children about symptoms

08:40 What to tell kids about epinephrine

11:04 Helping kids without passing on fear or anxiety

13:18 Mental health signs related to food allergies

16:04 Managing allergens in the home environment

19:50 The pros and cons of allergy tables at school

21:42 Communicating with schools and daycares

25:29 Preparing for parties and sleepovers

27:33 Final tips for parenting kids with food allergies (ages 5–11)

This stage of life is full of firsts, not just for your child, but for you as a parent managing food allergies. From introducing new foods to navigating daycare and watching for reactions in a child who can’t speak yet, there are countless moments you’ll need to manage. This episode focuses on building safe habits early, empowering caregivers, and showing how simple routines (like label reading or toy wiping) can make a big difference.

Allergist Dr. Basil Kahwash joins Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta to explore how food allergy care evolves from infancy through preschool. They cover real-life, practical strategies from wiping toys and watching for symptoms to managing daycare risks and building early self-advocacy skills.

• Why age matters. Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers each need different safety strategies.
• What symptoms look like. Learn how reactions can show up in babies who can’t talk.
• Introducing new foods. Why early introduction still matters even after a new food allergy diagnosis.
• Daycare safety tips. How to prep caregivers and keep your child protected.
• Building habits early. From label reading to toy wiping, young kids learn by watching you.

Episode 3 in our “Food Allergies: Ages & Stages” series 

Across six episodes, we explore how food allergies show up and shift through different phases of life, from introducing solids in infancy to navigating school and adapting in adulthood. We’re here with evidence-based info, expert insights, and lived experience to guide you through it all.

• Episode 1: Early Allergen Introduction (Ep. 110)
• Episode 2: Food Allergy Basics for Newly Diagnosed Families (Ep. 111)

Episodes to build a better food allergy foundation:

• • Episode 59: What is Anaphylaxis and When to Use Epinephrine
  • Episode 95: The Science Behind Allergic Reactions
  • Episode. 97: The Nuances of Food Allergy Testing 
  • Episode 98: Food Allergy Treatment and Management

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Genentech and Aquestive for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

This is the second episode in our Food Allergies: Ages & Stages, and it’s all about building a strong foundation after a new diagnosis. Whether it’s your child, your partner, or you who was recently diagnosed, Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta walk through everything you need to know in those early days. From understanding how allergic reactions work to learning about life-saving tools like epinephrine, and new management options like OIT and omalizumab.

Dr. G explains what causes your immune system to misfire, how fast symptoms can appear, and why no two reactions are the same. We also dive into real-life strategies like carrying your epinephrine device, knowing when and how to use it, and navigating social situations. Plus, Kortney shares personal tips that have helped her live safely with food allergies for over 30 years.

• What just happened?! We explain what causes allergic reactions, including the roles of IgE, histamine, and mast cells.
• Are all allergic reactions the same? Learn how quickly reactions can occur and why symptoms aren’t always predictable.
• Why is epinephrine so important? When to use epinephrine, how to use it, and why antihistamines aren't enough.
• New options to help manage food allergies. A look at treatments like OIT and omalizumab (Xolair) and why you still need to carry your epi.
• Peace of mind with an action plan. What to include in a Food Allergy Action Plan and how to help others take your allergy seriously.

Episode 2 in our “Food Allergies: Ages & Stages” series 

Across six episodes, we explore how food allergies show up and shift through different phases of life, from introducing solids in infancy to navigating school and adapting in adulthood. We’re here with evidence-based info, expert insights, and lived experience to guide you through it all.

Episodes mentioned to help build your foundation:

• Episode 59: What is Anaphylaxis and When to Use Epinephrine
• Episode 95: The Science Behind Allergic Reactions
• Episode 98: Food Allergy Treatment and Management
• Ep. 110: Early Introduction of Allergenic Foods – Preventing Food Allergies Before They Start

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Genentech and Aquestive for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

That’s the power of early allergen introduction. Feeding a baby the top 9 allergens consistently starting between 4 to 6 months can make a life-changing difference.

We’re launching a brand-new series about food allergies at various stages of life. Whether you’re just starting solids, navigating a new diagnosis, or in a new stage of life, this series is here to support you with evidence-based tips and real talk. In this first episode, Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta explore how to potentially prevent food allergies before they even develop.

For years, parents were told to wait until toddlers were older before introducing allergenic foods. But groundbreaking research, including the LEAP, LEAP-On, and PETIT studies, turned that advice on its head.

We no longer wait to feed babies food allergens. Instead, early (around 4–6 months) and sustained exposure to top allergens like peanut and egg is recommended for all babies. In this episode, Dr. G and Kortney explain the studies, walk you through how to do it safely, and bust common myths that leave parents confused or anxious.

• Why guidelines changed: Learn how the LEAP & PETIT studies reshaped allergy prevention.
• How to introduce the top 9 allergenic foods safely, including forms that are appropriate for infants.
• What “sustained exposure” means and how often to serve allergens after that first taste. How eczema increases allergy risk and what transcutaneous sensitization means.
• What allergic signs to watch for: mild hives vs. serious allergic reactions and when to call the doctor.

• USDA Updates Dietary Guidelines to Include Introduction of Food Allergens
• Delaware Adopts Law Covering Early Introduction of Food Allergens
• What is a food allergy?
• American Academy of Pediatrics Early Feeding Guidelines
• AAAAI / ACAAI handouts on introducing peanut & egg
• FARE: How to Use Peanut Puffs Safely
• Solid Starts: Peanut Butter Guide (Creative Ways to Serve)
• PreventAllergies.org Recipe Library
• Our infant anaphylaxis episode (with Dr. Mike)

Made in partnership with the Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Genentech and Aquestive for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

In the inaugural episode of our new series, The Itch Review, co-hosts Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta, along with special guest Dr. Michael Blaiss, unpack the journal article "Tezepelumab in Adults with Severe Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps," published in the New England Journal of Medicine on March 1, 2025.

This article is about the Phase III WAYPOINT trial of tezepelumab. Already approved for severe asthma, this once-monthly biologic is now showing promise in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). Over 52 weeks, 408 patients were randomized to receive 210 mg of tezepelumab every four weeks or placebo. Researchers tracked nasal-polyp scores, congestion, sense of smell, and rates of rescue surgery.

In this episode, we provide a brief overview of what CRSwNP is, why inflammation drives polyp formation and how blocking TSLP fits into today’s biologics options. We’ll walk you through the WAYPOINT Phase III design, explain the primary and secondary endpoints, and translate the headline results into what they mean for real-world patients who’ve exhausted their treatment options.

➡️ Get the infographic here.

• CRSwNP basics & tezepelumab mechanism of action: How nasal polyps form and why targeting TSLP can reduce inflammation
• WAYPOINT design: 52-week, placebo-controlled Phase III study in 408 patients 
• Primary endpoints: Mean change in nasal polyp score and nasal-congestion score
• Secondary endpoints: Smell recovery, need for rescue surgery or systemic steroids, and quality-of-life measures
• Why choice matters: Every CRSwNP patient responds differently, and having more treatment options means more chances to find the right fit

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to AstraZeneca for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. James Tracy, the 2024-2025 president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), to explore how the College supports both patients and clinicians. Dr. Tracy shares how he got involved, what drives his leadership, and what’s ahead for the future of allergy and asthma care.

From workforce shortages to the promise of AI in medicine, this conversation takes you behind the curtain of the specialty. Plus, we dig into how patients and providers alike can make a difference through advocacy.

What we cover in our episode about ACAAI, leadership & allergy care

• Dr. Tracy’s unique path to leadership: How his non-traditional journey from practicing in rural Nebraska to leading the ACAAI shaped his approach to advocacy and patient care.
• Creating leadership opportunities: Why mentorship and involvement in ACAAI committees can open doors for clinicians, fellows-in-training, and future leaders in allergy and immunology.
• Patient tools that make a difference: Free ACAAI resources that help patients better understand and manage their conditions.
• The evolving role of the allergist: How allergists are uniquely trained to manage complex conditions and why that matters as technology, treatment options, and care delivery evolve.
• Future-focused leadership at ACAAI: Dr. Tracy’s vision for tackling workforce shortages, embracing AI and gene editing, and keeping patient care at the center of innovation.

Resources:

• Asthma Allergy Day on Capitol Hill
• More information about advocacy
• The American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology Patient Resources
• The American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology Allergist Finder

In this episode, allergist Dr. Juanita Mora joins Kortney and Dr. Gupta to discuss chronic spontaneous urticaria (hives) and the unique challenges faced by the Latinx community. They highlight the importance of cultural competency in health care and the barriers that Latinx patients often encounter, such as language differences and access to specialists. They also discuss how Latinx patients are often not given all treatment options for hives, such as biologics. 

Dr. Mora emphasizes the importance of having resources available in Spanish and encourages patients and families to advocate for their care. They explore practical tips on how technology, family support, and proper patient education can help overcome barriers, leading to better diagnosis, treatment, and improved quality of life for Hispanic patients managing CSU.

What we cover in our episode about chronic hives in the Latinx community:

• Diagnosing hives in skin of color: How CSU symptoms can present differently on darker skin tones, making accurate diagnosis harder. 
• Overcoming barriers for Latinx patients: The specific hurdles the Latinx community faces like language barriers, limited access to Spanish-speaking allergists, and challenges obtaining advanced treatments such as biologics.
• Role of family and community support: How involving family members and community leaders can improve CSU awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage patients to seek timely medical treatment.
• Importance of Spanish-language patient education: Why accessible, culturally relevant education and resources in Spanish are essential for empowering Latinx patients to manage their CSU effectively.
• Cultural beliefs and CSU diagnosis: How cultural perceptions around health and family influence the timing of diagnosis and willingness to seek medical care.

Resources Spanish

• ¿Qué es la urticaria crónica?
• Urticaria Crónica - Dr. Antonio Olvera 
• Urticaria crónica espontánea/idiopática (erupción crónica)
• Protocolo urticaria cronica 

Resources English

• Chronic Urticaria Management, Resources & Glossary of Terms
• Chronic Hives: 10 Actions to Support Your Mental Health
• Why Are My Hives Not Going Away?

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Novartis for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

While both topical and oral steroids offer quick relief from severe eczema flares, understanding their long-term risks and safer alternatives can dramatically improve your quality of life.

In this episode, Dr. Mondana Ghias joins Kortney and Dr. Gupta to discuss the complex role of systemic corticosteroids in eczema management. They dive deep into the short-term relief that steroids provide for severe eczema symptoms and emphasize why steroids must be approached cautiously due to potential side effects and dependency risks.

Dr. Ghias also highlights the unique challenges of eczema care for individuals with skin of color, addressing differences in treatment response and the common issue of hypopigmentation caused by topical steroids.

• Role of Systemic Steroids: When steroids are necessary and how they quickly manage severe eczema flares.
• Risks and Side Effects: Understanding the serious long-term effects of systemic and topical steroids.
• Steroid Withdrawal: Recognizing the signs of steroid withdrawal and strategies to manage rebound effects.
• Challenges of Topical Steroids for Skin of Color: The unique risks of steroid use and managing hypopigmentation.
• Alternatives to Steroids and Innovative Treatments: The rise of biologics and targeted therapies offering safer, long-term solutions.
• The Importance of Specialist Care: Working with a dermatologist or allergist will help you find a sustainable long-term management plan.

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi and Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Dr. Dipa Sheth joins us to discuss the common pitfalls of relying too heavily on oral corticosteroids (OCS), also known as oral steroids. We unpack why these systemic medications should generally be reserved for short-term use. She also shares how improving asthma control can help you avoid frequent steroid use in the first place.

Although oral steroids can effectively treat asthma flare-ups in emergency settings, overuse poses significant risks, from adrenal insufficiency to osteoporosis. We dig into ways patients can proactively manage their asthma, reduce ER visits, and talk to healthcare providers about preventive treatments (like inhalers or biologics for asthma) that keep inflammation in check without the side effects of frequent steroid use.

Note: Although we discuss oral corticoid steroids, they can also be given as injections or via IV drip for asthma. We would also like to refer to them as systemic steroids as they impact the entire body, unlike inhaled steroids, which target the airways and lungs. 

• Understanding Oral Corticosteroids (OCS): Learn what these steroids (often called the “asthma shot” in the ER) are and how they can help with severe flare-ups.
• Why Overusing Steroids Can Be Risky: Discover the potential long-term side effects of relying on systemic steroids (pills, injections, or IV), from adrenal insufficiency and osteoporosis to more frequent infections.
• Short-Term Fix vs. Lasting Relief for Asthma Care: Learn how urgent care or ER visits may mask an under-managed condition and why seeing a specialist can improve asthma control.
• Safer Alternatives to OCS: Explore inhaled corticosteroids, biologics, and other preventive treatments that target asthma at its source, reducing the need for frequent steroids.
• Taking Control and Reducing ER Visits: Get practical strategies for working with your healthcare provider to minimize steroid use, prevent flare-ups, and break free from the cycle of repeated steroid courses.

This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi and Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, always consult with your healthcare provider.

When you have asthma, eczema, nasal polyps, or other conditions caused by type 2 inflammation, reaching a state of control can dramatically improve your quality of life. But what does "control" really mean? Is it the same as a cure? And what steps should you take if your current treatment isn't working?

In this episode, Dr. Payel Gupta and Kortney dive deep into the idea of control in the context of Type 2 inflammation. They explain that control doesn't mean you'll never experience symptoms again. Rather, it's about having fewer, milder flare-ups and the freedom to live your life more comfortably.

Dr. Gupta explains what control means for various conditions, why it matters, and how recognizing signs of poor control can protect against long-term complications. Kortney shares her own experience managing asthma and eczema with biologics, highlighting why symptom tracking and regular check-ins with your doctor are essential, even when you’re feeling good.

• Defining Control in Type 2 Inflammation: Learn what control actually looks like. Discover the difference between controlling symptoms and curing the condition entirely.
• Why Achieving Control Matters: Find out why uncontrolled Type 2 inflammation can lead to worsening symptoms, frequent hospital visits, increased medication needs, and significantly impact your day-to-day life.
• Managing Multiple Conditions and the Role of Specialists: Understand why having more than one Type 2 inflammatory condition can lead to a "domino effect," worsening overall health. Learn how specialists like allergists can help you manage multiple conditions effectively.
• Treatment Options for Controlling Type 2 Inflammation: Get an overview of available treatments, including biologic therapies specifically designed to target underlying inflammation pathways. Understand the role these medications play in improving quality of life.
• Practical Tips for Managing Symptoms at Home: Learn ways to reduce inflammation by identifying and minimizing triggers, allergy-proofing your environment, and adopting healthier lifestyle practices.

More episodes that will help you: 

• Ep. 101 What is Type 2 Inflammation
• Ep. 98 Food Allergy Treatment and Management
• Ep. 87 What biologic therapies are available for allergic conditions?
• Ep. 85 Navigating Biologic Therapy – What You Need to Know
• Ep. 78 Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria Treatments
• Ep. 56 Biologic Therapies for Asthma

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi and Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Type 2 inflammation plays a central role in allergic diseases, which impact children from infancy through adulthood. From eczema and asthma to food allergies and allergic rhinitis, these conditions are all connected through an underlying immune response: Type 2 inflammation. But is there a way to prevent the progression of these diseases?

In this episode, Dr. Payel Gupta and Kortney are joined by Dr. Priya Bansal to explore how Type 2 inflammation manifests in children, the concept of the atopic march, and whether treatments like immunotherapy or biologics can alter the course of the diseases.

Many parents aren’t aware of the atopic march until their child starts developing multiple allergic conditions. Understanding how Type 2 inflammation progresses and when to intervene can be crucial in managing these diseases early. Dr. Bansal shares her expert insights on the best time to seek treatment and how biologics may help some children break the cycle of inflammation.

• Understanding Type 2 Inflammation in Children: Understand type 2 inflammation’s role in conditions like eczema, asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergies. Learn why children with one allergic condition often develop others over time.
• The Atopic March: Discover why some children with eczema go on to develop asthma and food allergies. Learn why early intervention can make a difference.
• Immunotherapy and Biologics: Can They Change the Course of Disease? Understand how allergy shots, OIT, SLIT and biologics work, when they are recommended, and whether they can stop or slow down the atopic march in children.
• When to See an Allergist & Parental Concerns About Treatment: Learn the signs that indicate your child may need an allergist evaluation. Plus, we address common concerns about aggressive treatment options, including steroids and biologics.
• Managing Type 2 Conditions at Home & School: Practical tips for parents navigating food allergic diseases.

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi and Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Type 2 Inflammation is a hot topic in immunology because it’s the engine that drives many allergic and inflammatory diseases. It’s also the key to modern treatment strategies, including targeted biologic therapies. Dr. Blaiss explains how clinicians recognize multiple Type 2-driven conditions in the same patient, why it is important to know the connection between multiple conditions and Type 2 inflammation, and the big-picture benefits of treating inflammation aggressively to prevent complications.

• Conditions Related to Type 2 Inflammation: Explore how chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), rhinitis, asthma, atopic dermatitis (eczema), prurigo nodularis, eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), and food allergies can all share a common inflammatory pathway.
• The Likelihood of Having Multiple Type 2 Conditions: How often do patients have more than one condition related to Type 2 Inflammation, and why is recognizing overlap a potential game-changer for diagnosis and treatment?
• Treating the Root Inflammation vs. Individual Symptoms: Discover how clinicians decide whether to address each condition separately or tackle the underlying Type 2 inflammatory process affecting them all.
• Markers & Personalized Medicine: Dr. Blaiss discusses whether potential tests, such as eosinophil counts or IgE levels, can confirm Type 2 inflammation. He also explains how knowing you have Type 2 Inflammation can help guide targeted therapy.
• Prevention & Aggressive Intervention: Understand why it’s crucial to treat inflammation early to reduce the risk of developing multiple Type 2 conditions and how this proactive approach benefits long-term health.

Want to know more? Type 2 Inflammation Overview – Explains the role of Type 2 inflammation in conditions like asthma and nasal polyps.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, always consult with your healthcare provider.

Produced in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi and Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode. While they support the show, all opinions are our own, and sponsorship doesn’t influence our content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.

Type 2 inflammation is a major cause of many allergic and inflammatory conditions, yet it remains widely misunderstood. In this first episode of our four-part series on Type 2 Inflammation, we discuss the basics, unpack its impact on the immune system, explain how it contributes to chronic inflammation in the body, and explain why it matters for treatment and management.

• Understanding Inflammation: Inflammation is your body’s natural defence mechanism, but it can become problematic when it turns chronic.
• Normal vs. Chronic Inflammation: Not all inflammation is bad! Learn the difference between the body’s normal immune response and long-term chronic inflammation.
• What Sets Type 2 Inflammation Apart? Unlike other immune responses, Type 2 inflammation involves a specific pathway.
• Key Players in Type 2 Inflammation: Th2 cells, cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13), IgE antibodies, and eosinophils.
• Measuring Type 2 Inflammation: How blood tests can help determine if Type 2 inflammation is contributing to your symptoms.

Want to know more? Type 2 Inflammation Overview – Explains the role of Type 2 inflammation in conditions like asthma and nasal polyps.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, always consult with your healthcare provider.

Produced in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi and Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode. While they support the show, all opinions are our own, and sponsorship doesn’t influence our content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.

We also introduce The Journal Club, a brand-new series in which we unpack the latest journal articles in our famous, easy-to-digest style.

• Why Kortney decided to share her story about allergies, asthma, and eczema.
• Why Dr. Gupta became an allergist and how her personal journey shaped her career.
• The impact of patient advocacy—why Dr. G is passionate about empowering patients.
• The Itch Podcast's partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network and how it’s raising awareness and education.
• Lessons from six years of podcasting—what we’ve learned from our guests, experts, and YOU, our listeners.
• Introducing The Journal Club—a new series unpacking medical research in a simple and relatable way.

Recognizing and treating anaphylaxis in babies can be overwhelming, but knowing the right signs and symptoms can help you decide when to use epinephrine or distinguish it from a cold. Pediatric allergist Dr. Michael Pistiner joins us to discuss how to recognize anaphylaxis in infants, when to use epinephrine, and why early food introduction matters.

Understanding food allergies in infants, anaphylaxis symptoms, and emergency treatment is essential for parents and caregivers to act quickly and confidently. This episode will give you the confidence to respond in an emergency.

• What is anaphylaxis, and how does it present differently in infants vs. older children?
• How to differentiate an allergic reaction from common childhood illnesses.
• Why early allergen introduction is crucial and
• How over-testing can lead to unnecessary worry.
• When to use epinephrine vs. antihistamines for treating reactions.
• Parental fears about epinephrine and why it’s always the safest choice in an emergency.
• When to call 911 after administering epinephrine.
• Why carrying two epinephrine auto-injectors is essential for managing severe reactions.

More resources about infant anaphylaxis: 

• More from Dr. Pistiner about infant anaphylaxis
• What is Epinephrine
• More About Food Allergies
• More About Anaphylaxis
• Food Allergy Treatment & Management
• Living with Food Allergies Guide
• What Can You Do If You Can’t Afford Allergen-Free Foods?
• What if I Can’t Afford My Allergy Medications?
• Early Introduction Guidelines

This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Kaléo for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Dr. Maya N. Gharfeh joins us to explore innovative options for treating food allergies. In this episode, we cover comprehensive strategies ranging from traditional avoidance techniques to cutting-edge treatments like omalizumab (Xolair) and Oral Immunotherapy (OIT).

While these treatments are promising, they are not cures. Dr. Gharfeh shares valuable insights on integrating these options into your allergy management plan. She also discusses how to determine whether Xolair or OIT might be the right choice for you or your child. Despite advancements, avoidance remains the cornerstone of food allergy management and must still be practiced even while undergoing treatment.

• Effective methods for food allergy avoidance
• Deciphering packaged food labels and "may contain" statements
• Understanding cross-contamination and cross-contact
• Insights into Xolair and its role in food allergy treatment
• An overview of Oral Immunotherapy (OIT)
• Guidance on choosing between Xolair and OIT

GUIDE: Food Allergen Alternative Names on Labels

Produced in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Genetech for sponsoring today’s episode. While they support the show, all opinions are our own, and sponsorship doesn’t influence our content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Navigating food allergy testing can feel overwhelming, with skin pricks, blood tests, and conflicting advice. How do you determine which tests are truly useful? How can you avoid unnecessary dietary restrictions from false results?

In this episode, Dr. David Stukus, a board-certified allergist and immunologist, joins Dr. Gupta and Kortney to demystify the science of food allergy testing. From the importance of patient history to the latest diagnostic tools, Dr. Stukus provides clear guidance to help you make informed decisions while navigating food allergy testing.

• The Crucial Role of History in Food Allergy Diagnosis: Dr. Stukus highlights why understanding a patient’s reaction history (symptoms, timing, and context) is critical for guiding effective testing decisions.
• Choosing the Right Tests: We break down skin prick testing, blood tests like IgE and component testing, and innovations like epitope mapping. Dr. Stukus explains why IgG testing is untrustworthy and emphasizes oral food challenges as the gold standard for diagnosis.
• False Positives and Negatives: Learn why expert interpretation of test results is crucial and how overtesting can lead to unnecessary restrictions and confusion.
• When to See an Allergist: Practical advice on when to consult a specialist and what to expect during your visit for evidence-based care.

This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Genentech for sponsoring today’s episode.

About Our Guest

Dr. David R. Stukus is a renowned allergist and immunologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and a professor at Ohio State University College of Medicine. He is known for his dedication to patient education and myth-busting in allergy care and is a trusted expert in food, asthma, and environmental allergies.

Follow Dr. Stukus on Instagram: @allergykidsdoc

Have you ever scrolled through social media and found a doctor busting medical myths or sharing health advice? Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are transforming how we access health information and interact with medical professionals.

Dr. Zachary Rubin joins Dr. Gupta and Kortney to explore the evolving role of doctors on social media. From creating trustworthy content to balancing the risks and rewards of being a medical professional online, Dr. Rubin shares his journey and tips for using social platforms to educate and empower.

Whether you're a patient seeking reliable health information or a healthcare professional curious about sharing expertise, this episode dives deep into the intersection of social media and medicine.

• Why Social Media Matters for Doctors: Dr. Rubin explains why having a presence online is vital for normalizing conditions like food allergies and providing access to reliable health education.
• Navigating Risks and Rewards: Learn how doctors manage the challenges of creating content while maintaining professionalism and protecting themselves online.
• Fighting Misinformation: We discuss how to responsibly call out misinformation and share accurate information to build trust.
• Bridging Healthcare Gaps: Discover how platforms like Instagram and TikTok help patients without access to specialists find trustworthy medical advice.
• Tips for Creating Reliable Medical Content: Dr. Rubin shares strategies for crafting engaging, accurate posts and curating a social media feed filled with credible health information.

Follow Dr. Rubin on Social Media:

• Instagram:@rubin_allergy
• YouTube: @rubin_allergy
• TikTok: @rubin_allergy
• Twitter: @rubin_allergy

From itchy eyes to anaphylaxis, the science behind allergies explains why some reactions are mild while others can be life-threatening. In this episode, we break it all down.

Dr. Payel Gupta and Kortney unpack the basics of food allergies, starting with what IgE antibodies are and how they play a role in allergic reactions. They explain what happens when your immune system encounters an allergen, breaking it down with our favorite pinata analogy. This deep dive into the immune system reveals why reactions can range from mild to life-threatening and explores the differences between food allergies, intolerances, and oral allergy syndrome.

If you're newly diagnosed or curious about the science behind allergies, this episode offers valuable insights to help you understand your body and stay safe.

• What is an allergic reaction? Discover how your immune system identifies allergens and triggers a response involving IgE antibodies, mast cells, and histamine. Confused? We use our pinata analogy to simplify it.
• The role of histamine and inflammation. Learn how histamine is released during an allergic reaction, leading to inflammation and common symptoms.
• Understanding food allergies vs. food intolerances. Explore the key differences, including symptoms, risks, and why terminology matters.
• Oral allergy syndrome and environmental allergies. Understand why some allergies don’t lead to anaphylaxis and how cross-reactivity can cause symptoms.
• Anaphylaxis and severe reactions. Explore why some reactions are life-threatening and how factors like exposure levels and health conditions can influence severity.

More resources about allergies: 

• A Complete Guide to Allergies
• More About Food Allergies
• More About Anaphylaxis
• Food Allergy Treatment & Management
• Living with food allergies guide
• What Can You Do If You Can’t Afford Allergen-Free Foods?
• What if I Can’t Afford My Allergy Medications?

This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Genetech for sponsoring today’s episode. While they support the show, all opinions are our own, and sponsorship doesn’t influence our content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.

Managing anaphylaxis just became easier with Neffy, the FDA-approved nasal spray for epinephrine. This innovative, needle-free option is transforming emergency allergy care.

Dr. Autumn Burnette joins Dr. Payel Gupta and Kortney to discuss how Neffy works, who it’s best suited for, and its potential impact on anaphylaxis treatment. With her expertise in allergy and immunology, Dr. Burnette addresses common concerns about Neffy’s effectiveness, highlights its benefits, and shares practical details like cost, shelf life, and heat sensitivity.

• A Game-Changer for Anaphylaxis: Discover how Neffy offers a needle-free option for delivering life-saving epinephrine during severe allergic reactions.
• Patient Benefits of Neffy: Learn how its ease of use and accessibility can make anaphylaxis management less daunting for patients.
• Addressing Skepticism About Neffy: Dr. Burnette explains how studies validate Neffy’s effectiveness and addresses questions about trusting a nasal spray for emergencies.
• Practical Tips for Neffy Use: Get insights on cost, insurance coverage, shelf life, and whether Neffy works with nasal congestion or nose jobs!
• Expanding Treatment Options: Explore why having more options like Neffy is exciting for patients and healthcare providers alike.

More resources about Anaphylaxis and Neffy: 

• Neffy: https://www.neffy.com/
• Anaphylaxis: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/
• Epinephrine: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to ARS Pharma for sponsoring today’s episode. While they support the show, all opinions are our own, and sponsorship doesn’t influence our content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

We’re diving into everything you need to know about Neffy, the new FDA-approved nasal spray for epinephrine. This groundbreaking, needle-free option provides an easy way to manage anaphylaxis in emergencies.

Dr. Sakina Bajowala joins Dr. Gupta and Kortney to explore Neffy’s unique nasal delivery system, what distinguishes it from traditional auto-injectors, and the science behind its development. With her expertise in allergy and asthma care, Dr. Bajowala walks us through Neffy’s FDA approval journey, the technology that powers the nasal spray, and how it’s changing the landscape of allergy treatment.

• Why Neffy Nasal Spray is Unique: Dr. Bajowala explains why nasal epinephrine is an innovative choice for anaphylaxis treatment and when it may be preferable to injectables.
• FDA Approval for Neffy: We discuss the rigorous testing behind Neffy’s FDA approval, including studies conducted with actual patients post-approval.
• Intravail Technology in Neffy Nasal Spray: Learn about the advanced technology enabling rapid, effective absorption through the nasal passages for timely intervention.
• Considerations for Using Neffy Nasal Spray: We explore practical aspects of Neffy’s use, from nasal congestion to potential side effects.
• Neffy Dosing and Side Effects: Dr. Bajowala provides insights on dosing, including when a second dose may be recommended.

Helpful links:

• Neffy: https://www.neffy.com/
• Anaphylaxis: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/
• Epinephrine: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/

This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to ARS Pharma for sponsoring today’s episode. While they support the show, all opinions are our own, and sponsorship doesn’t influence our content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.

Lacey Varnon from the National Association of Medication Access and Patient Advocacy (NAMAPA) is back with Dr. Gupta and Kortney to discuss everything you need to consider when selecting a health insurance plan. This episode is all about understanding health insurance during open enrollment, from picking the right type of plan to ensuring your coverage fits your specific needs.

We cover essential aspects of open enrollment health insurance, including networks, premiums, copayments, and long-term medication coverage, so you can feel confident you're choosing a plan that works for you.

• Key Factors to Consider: Lacey explains the importance of listing your doctors, diagnoses, and medications to ensure they're covered.
• Understanding Premiums, Deductibles, and Networks: Gain insight into how these elements impact your out-of-pocket costs and access to care.
• Plan Types – HMO, PPO, EPO, and POS: We break down each type of plan, including pros and cons, to help you decide which suits your healthcare needs.
• Special Considerations for Pharmacy Benefits and Long-Term Medications: Lacey offers advice on accessing necessary medications through your health plan or alternative methods if they are not covered.
• Navigating Open Enrollment with Family Needs in Mind: Tips on choosing a plan that considers your family member's medical needs and how you've used insurance in the past.

More resources about health insurance: 

• Health Insurance Coverage in the United States
• Why was my prescription denied by insurance?
• Health Insurance for Asthma and Allergies
• Choosing the Right Health Insurance Plan
• Navigating Insurance Denials and Filing Appeals
• NAMAPA: National Association for Medication Access and Patient Advocacy
• Medication Access Network

This episode is made in partnership with the Allergy & Asthma Network and in collaboration the National Association of Medication Access and Patient Advocacy (NAMAPA). We thank Amgen for sponsoring this episode. 

Emmeka, or "Meka," joins Dr. Gupta and Kortney to share her personal experience of living with chronic urticaria as a person with skin of color. Meka describes her journey from a lack of resources addressing hives on black skin to finding effective support and resources. She opens up about the long path to her diagnosis, the depth of her online research into chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), and the importance of finding knowledgeable, empathetic healthcare providers.

Meka’s optimism highlights how a proactive approach, a trusted care team, and a strong support network can make a difference in managing CSU.

• Identifying Hives on Darker Skin: Meka shares the challenge of finding accurate images of hives on darker skin tones, which can complicate the first steps of recognizing your condition and create feelings of isolation.
• Advocating for Yourself in Healthcare: Meka provides strategies for effective self-advocacy during the diagnosis process, including tips for clear communication with healthcare providers.
• Building a Support Network: Meka emphasizes the value of connecting with others who share similar experiences, including support groups and online communities.
• Managing Symptoms & Minimizing Scars: Meka offers practical advice for managing CSU symptoms, reducing scarring, and strategies to avoid scratching.

Dr. Ama Alexis joins Dr. Gupta and Kortney to discuss the unique challenges of diagnosing and managing urticaria in skin of color. Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) can be especially tricky to identify in patients with darker skin tones, where traditional medical resources and visual aids often fall short.

Dr. Alexis explains how CSU appears differently in skin of color, discussing the difficulty of capturing hives on black and brown skin and offering advice for photographing hives to share with your doctor.

Dr. Gupta and Dr. Alexis also delve into the lack of diversity in clinical research and medical literature, exploring how these gaps contribute to mistrust and delays in treatment for patients of color. We end with a discussion on whether patients have better outcomes with providers who reflect the patient’s background.

• Identifying CSU in Darker Skin Tones: Dr. Alexis shares insights on how hives appear on darker skin and gives tips for photographing hives accurately.
• Limited Visual Resources for Skin of Color: We discuss how a lack of reliable images for darker skin often leads to confusion and feelings of isolation.
• Provider Training and Diagnosis Delays: Dr. Alexis highlights how limited training in diagnosing skin conditions across all skin tones contributes to delays in care.
• Collaborating on a Treatment Plan: Tips for patients on advocating for inclusive care, with guidance on both over-the-counter and prescription options.
• Cultural Sensitivity in Healthcare: Dr. Alexis shares ways healthcare providers can foster shared decision-making to improve outcomes for patients of color.

More resources about chronic hives in skin of color: 

• Chronic Urticaria Management, Resources & Glossary of Terms
• What is Chronic Urticaria
• Chronic Hives: 10 Actions to Support Mental Health
• Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria Series

This episode is produced in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network, with special thanks to Genentech for sponsoring this episode.

Many patients may not know what their doctors are doing behind the scenes when dealing with health insurance, and many doctors may feel overwhelmed by this process. There is a silver lining! Tools exist to help patients and providers better navigate the complexities of health insurance.

Elizabeth Johnson joins Dr. G and Kortney to share her expertise on overcoming the hurdles of securing medication approvals. She explains the biggest challenges healthcare providers face when working with insurance companies. She offers practical tips to navigate the approval process more efficiently.

Together with Dr. G, they discuss the lack of health insurance education for providers and the burden this places on medical staff. They also explore available resources and tools for healthcare professionals and stress the importance of incorporating insurance education early in medical training.

• Provider Challenges: Elizabeth explains the common hurdles doctors face in securing medication approvals, from paperwork to insurance denials.
• Navigating Insurance Companies: We explore the complexities of insurance approvals, from prior authorizations to the importance of good note-taking.
• NAMAPA Toolkit: Elizabeth introduces the NAMAPA toolkit, designed to assist healthcare providers in navigating all aspects of health insurance.
• Insurance Education: We highlight the need for insurance education during med school, residency and fellowship.
• Health Insurance Resources: Elizabeth shares strategies to ensure healthcare professionals have the tools to handle medication approvals and the resources available from pharmaceutical companies.

More resources: 

• Medication Access Coordinator Training From NAMAPA
• Health Insurance Coverage in the United States
• Why was my prescription denied by insurance?
• Health Insurance for Asthma and Allergies
• Choosing the Right Health Insurance Plan
• Navigating Insurance Denials and Filing Appeals
• NAMAPA: National Association for Medication Access and Patient Advocacy
• Medication Access Network
• MedicoCX

Before patients can access medications—whether it’s inhalers or biologic therapies—they often have to jump through many hoops to get insurance approval. Navigating the world of health insurance approvals for medication can be overwhelming for both patients and providers. In this episode, we break down what to expect, what you can do, and how to advocate for yourself throughout the process.

Lacey Varnon from the National Association of Medication Access and Patient Advocacy (NAMAPA) joins Dr. G and Kortney to dive into the complex world of health insurance. Lacey shares insights into common reasons for medication denials, how to appeal them, and how patients and healthcare providers can work together for better outcomes.

• Health Insurance Basics: Understanding essential terms like payer and formulary.
• Navigating Insurance Approvals: Tips for a smoother process, understanding prior authorization, and common reasons for medication denials.
• Teamwork Between Patients and Providers: How patients and doctors can collaborate to improve chances of approval and streamline the documentation process.
• The Appeals Process: A step-by-step guide to appealing denials and ensuring access to necessary treatments.
• Support Programs & Resources: Insights into sample programs, bridge programs, and tools to help patients through the approval process.

More resources about health insurance denials and appeals: 

• Health Insurance Coverage in the United States
• Why was my prescription denied by insurance?
• Health Insurance for Asthma and Allergies
• Choosing the Right Health Insurance Plan
• Navigating Insurance Denials and Filing Appeals
• NAMAPA: National Association for Medication Access and Patient Advocacy
• Medication Access Network

This episode is made in collaboration with the National Association of Medication Access and Patient Advocacy (NAMAPA). We thank Amgen for sponsoring this episode.

Dr. Perdita Permaul joins Dr. Gupta and Kortney to discuss the available biologic medications for allergic conditions. We walk through the eight biologics currently available for allergic diseases, explaining how these medications target different parts of the immune system to treat allergic conditions more effectively than traditional medications.

Dr. Permaul explains how biologics have evolved since 2003 and how they are changing the way allergic conditions are treated. She also explains why some of the biologics treat multiple diseases, whereas some are only approved for one. 

• How biologics work for allergic conditions: We unpack how biologic medications target specific parts of the immune system, reducing inflammation and improving the quality of life for patients with allergic diseases.
• History and evolution of biologics: Dr. Permaul walks us through the timeline of biologics, starting with Xolair in 2003 and how these treatments have expanded to target other conditions over time.
• Which biologics treat which conditions: From asthma and eczema to food allergies and nasal polyps, we break down which biologics are available and how they help patients with allergic conditions.
• Future of biologics: Dr. Permaul discusses the potential of biologics to be used for more conditions in the future, including ongoing research into food allergy treatments.

Biologics Cheat Sheet

Below is a list of the 8 biologics discussed in this episode. We have briefly outlined their mechanism of action along with the approved conditions and ages the drug is available for presecription. 

Omalizumab (Xolair)

Xolair works by binding to IgE to prevent allergic reactions. It has since been approved for chronic hives, nasal polyps, and food allergies.

• Allergic asthma: 6+
• Chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives: 12+
• Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP): 18+
• Food allergies:1+

Mepolizumab (Nucala)

Targets and blocks interleukin-5 (IL-5) play a key role in the activation and priming of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that causes inflammation in asthma.

• Eosinophilic Asthma: 6+
• CRSwNP: 18+
• Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA): 18+
• Hypereosinophilic Syndrome: ≥6 months

Reslizumab (Cinqair)

Targets and blocks interleukin-5 (IL-5).

• Eosinophilic asthma: 18+

Benralizumab (Fasenra)

Binds to the IL-5 receptor, preventing eosinophils from growing and causing inflammation.

• Eosinophilic asthma: 6+
• Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA): 18+

Dupilumab (Dupixent)

Targets and blocks IL-4 and IL-13 to reduce inflammation

• Asthma: 6+
• Atopic Dermatitis: 6 months+
• CRSwNP: 18+
• Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE): 1+ (> 33 lbs)
• Approved for prurigo nodularis (PN): 18+

Tezepelumab (Tezspire)

Blocks thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP).

• Asthma: 12+

Tralokinumab (Adbry, Adtralza)

Targets and neutralizes interleukin-13 (IL-13).

• Atopic dermatitis: 12+

Lebrikizumab (Ebglyss)

Targets and neutralizes interleukin-13 (IL-13).

• Atopic dermatitis: 12+ (> 40 lbs)

________

This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi-Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode. While they support the show, all opinions are our own, and sponsorship doesn’t influence our content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Dr. Vivian Hernandez-Trujillo joins Dr. G and Kortney to discuss the impact of health disparities on allergy outcomes within the Hispanic and Latino communities. Dr. Hernandez-Trujillo highlights the challenges posed by immigration status, language barriers, and cultural factors that contribute to unequal access to healthcare. These disparities often lead to difficulties in managing conditions like food allergies and asthma.

Dr. Hernandez-Trujillo emphasizes the importance of having an advocate in the healthcare system. Dr. G and Dr. Henandez-Trujillo discuss how building a strong relationship with your doctor is key to better outcomes. 

Dr. Hernandez-Trujillo also addresses how cultural beliefs and practices within the Hispanic community influence the understanding and management of food allergies and the need for healthcare providers to enhance their cultural competency.

• Health Disparities: Immigration status and language barriers significantly impact healthcare access and outcomes in the Hispanic community.
• Role of an Advocate: Why it is important to have an advocate and maintain a strong relationship with your healthcare provider to navigate the healthcare system.
• Challenges with Allergy Testing: What are the difficulties the Hispanic population faces with allergy testing, including issues related to insurance coverage?
• Cultural Beliefs and Practices: How cultural beliefs and practices within the Hispanic community influence the understanding and management of food allergies.
• Cultural Competency: How healthcare providers can enhance their cultural competency to better serve Hispanic patients.

Dr. Vivian Hernandez-Trujillo is a board-certified allergist and immunologist at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, where she specializes in treating allergies and immune conditions in children. Dr. Hernandez-Trujillo is deeply committed to addressing health disparities and improving healthcare access for underserved communities. She is actively involved in research and education, focusing on culturally competent care and advocating for patients within the Hispanic community. Her clinical interests include food allergies, asthma, and other allergic conditions.

More resources about XXX: 

• ¿Qué es una alergia alimentaria?
• GoogRx Espagñol 
• Serie de conferencias virtuales Unidos Hablemos

Dr. William Anderson joins Dr. Gupta and Kortney to break down the essential steps for starting biologic therapy, covering everything you need to know before beginning treatment. Biologics are at the forefront of managing chronic allergic diseases like asthma and eczema, offering targeted, personalized care that can improve patients’ quality of life. However, accessing these medications often requires navigating a maze of insurance approvals, prior authorizations, and specialty pharmacies.

We dive deep into the challenges patients face when starting biologics—understanding how to get coverage, managing co-pays, and coordinating with specialty pharmacies, all while handling the logistics of administering the medication. As someone who has just started a biologic herself, Kortney shares her own experience and reflects on how this episode provides the exact information she wished she’d had a few months ago.

• Getting informed before starting biologic therapy: Dr. Anderson explains why reviewing your medication’s patient website is a great first step. These resources often include videos and important details about the treatment.
• Navigating insurance and coverage: Insurance is often the biggest hurdle to starting biologics. Dr. Anderson highlights the role your doctor plays in this. Additionally, we discuss the importance of understanding your coverage, prior authorization, and working with specialty pharmacies to ensure you get the medication.
• Administration and storage of biologics: Whether it’s self-injection or infusion at a clinic, we explain how biologics are administered. Dr. Anderson also provides tips on proper storage, including refrigeration and traveling with biologics.
• Vaccines and biologics: Find out whether patients on biologic therapy should avoid live vaccines and how inactivated vaccines like the flu shot are generally safe to take.
• Long-term planning for biologics: Learn about the regular follow-ups and monitoring that are part of managing biologic therapy. Dr. Anderson discusses the importance of staying on track with your doses and follow-up appointments to ensure your biologic works effectively.

About our biologics expert, Dr. William Anderson

Dr. William Anderson, is a board-certified pediatric allergist and immunologist at Children’s Hospital Colorado. With a focus on treating children with complex allergic conditions such as asthma, eczema, and food allergies, Dr. Anderson is known for his patient-centered approach. He has extensive experience in biologic therapies and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for patients through personalized care. Dr. Anderson also actively participates in clinical research, staying at the forefront of advances in allergy and immunology treatments.

More resources about biologic therapies and the conditions they treat: 

• A systematic review and expert Delphi Consensus recommendation on the use of vaccines in patients receiving dupilumab: A position paper of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
• Biologic Medications Overview
• Understanding Asthma
• Allergies Explained
• Managing Food Allergies
• Understanding Eczema
• What if I Can’t Afford My Eczema Medication?
• What if I Can’t Afford My Asthma Medication?

This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi-Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode. While they support the show, all opinions are our own, and sponsorship doesn’t influence our content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.

We’re uncovering the truth behind the most pervasive myths about biologic medications with guest Dr. Cedric “Jamie” Rutland. Biologics are revolutionizing the treatment of allergic diseases like asthma and eczema, but misconceptions about their effectiveness, safety, and usage still persist. Dr. Rutland sets the record straight, debunking myths that may be clouding your understanding and decision-making process.

From whether biologics are a cure to concerns about long-term safety and side effects, this episode tackles the most common myths head-on. Dr. Rutland breaks down what biologic therapy truly offers, helping you make informed decisions about your treatment options.

• Are biologics a cure? Dr. Rutland explains that biologics help manage symptoms, but they are not a complete cure.
• Biologics vs. traditional medications: We clarify how biologics differ from traditional medications in the way they target the immune system at a molecular level.
• Do biologics have severe side effects? We dispel myths about severe side effects.
• Long-term effectiveness of biologics: Dr. Rutland talks about how biologics maintain effectiveness over time for most patients.
• Do you have to stay on biologics for life? Learn how long patients typically stay on biologic treatments and whether they are lifelong therapies.
• When should biologics be considered? We address the myth that biologics are only for when all other treatments have failed and discuss when biologics should be introduced.
• Can you stop other medications while on biologics? Dr. Rutland explains that biologics are often used alongside other medications, not as a replacement.
• Who can use biologics? We debunk the myth that biologics are only for adults or that they can't be used if you have multiple health issues.
• Biologics and cancer risk: A common concern, but Dr. Rutland explains the actual risks and dispels the misconception that biologics cause cancer.
• Are biologics immunosuppressive? We discuss how biologics work on the immune system without broadly suppressing it like other treatments might.
• Biologics in medical practice: Dr. Rutland talks about the role of doctors and financial incentives, explaining why doctors prescribe biologics and how they make treatment decisions.
• Do biologics work immediately? Dr. Rutland sets the record straight on how long it typically takes for biologics to start working.
• Biologics are not experimental: Biologics have been widely studied and are not experimental treatments.

• Administration of biologics: We address the myth that biologics must be administered only in hospitals, explaining how patients can receive them at home or in clinics.
• Biologics are not interchangeable: Dr. Rutland explains the importance of sticking with the biologic prescribed specifically for a patient's condition.
• Prescribing biologics: While specialists typically prescribe biologics, we explore how general practitioners can also be involved in the process.
• Lifestyle changes and biologics: We discuss the misconception that biologics eliminate the need for lifestyle changes.
• Are biologics unnecessary for mild symptoms? Dr. Rutland explains that biologics are not only for severe symptoms but can also be considered for other cases.

More resources about biologic therapy and the conditions they treat: 

• https://biologicmeds.org/
• https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/
• https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/allergies/
• https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/food-allergies/
• https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-eczema/

We discuss biologic medications with Dr. Berger, a leading expert in biologic therapy for allergic diseases. Since the first biologic was introduced in 2003, these treatments have advanced significantly. By targeting the root causes of inflammation, biologics offer a more precise, personalized approach to treating conditions like asthma and eczema. Unlike traditional medications, biologics are a breakthrough, opening the door to tailored care that improves patients' long-term symptom control and quality of life.

Dr. Berger explains biologic medications, how they work at a molecular level, and how they impact the immune system. As Kortney recently started biologic therapy, we also get a firsthand account of patients' decision-making process and concerns when considering biologic treatments. These innovative therapies not only control symptoms but can transform the daily lives of people living with chronic allergic diseases, providing hope for better, long-term outcomes.

• What is a biologic medication? Dr. Berger explains how biologic medications differ from traditional treatments by focusing on precision-based medicine, offering a revolutionary way to target specific aspects of the immune system.
• How biologic therapies target molecular inflammation: Learn how biologic treatments act on specific inflammatory molecules, offering hope for better control and relief for patients with severe asthma, eczema, and more.
• Do biologics suppress the immune system? We address common questions about biologic therapy, its effects on the immune system, and potential side effects.
• The evolution of biologic treatments. A look at how biologic medicine has advanced since 2003 and its role in reshaping asthma therapy and other allergic disease treatments, providing exciting new options for patients.
• Improving quality of life for allergic disease patients with biologics. We discuss how, for many, biologics have been life-changing.
• Steps for patients considering biologic treatment. Dr. Berger offers practical advice for patients interested in discussing biologic therapy with their healthcare providers.

Dr. William E. Berger is a past Clinical Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of California-Irvine and served as Medical Director of Southern California Research in Mission Viejo. He is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with a distinguished career, including roles as President of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology and as Medical Staff Allergist for the U.S. Olympic Swim Team. Dr. Berger has published over 200 peer-reviewed articles and authored books like Asthma for Dummies, focusing on allergy and asthma treatments. He is widely recognized as an expert in his field, frequently appearing on major media outlets like CNN and Good Morning America.

More resources about biologic therapy: 

• https://biologicmeds.org/
• https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/
• https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/allergies/
• https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/food-allergies/
• https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-eczema/

This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi-Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode. While they support the show, all opinions are our own, and sponsorship doesn’t influence our content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.

In this episode, Dr. Matthew Zirwas joins us to discuss the latest advancements in treating CSU, offering invaluable insights into both current and emerging treatment options. With his extensive experience and patient-centred approach, Dr. Zirwas breaks down the complexities of CSU and highlights how these new therapies can make a real difference.

This podcast was made in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network. We thank Novartis for sponsoring this podcast.

• How Dr. Zirwas explains CSU to his patients: Discover the patient-friendly explanations that help demystify CSU and empower patients to learn more about their disease.
• When to start with a biologic: Learn about the decision-making process for initiating biologic therapies like Xolair (omalizumab) and when they are most appropriate.
• The new medications coming to market: Get an overview of the latest advancements, including:
  • Dupixent (dupilumab): A biologic administered via injection that targets key pathways in the inflammatory response.
  • Remibrutinib: A BTK (Bruton tyrosine kinase) inhibitor available as a pill that blocks a crucial enzyme in mast cell activation.
  • Barzolvolimab: A promising biologic that targets the C KIT receptor on mast cells to reduce their number.
• Shared decision-making with these medications: Explore strategies for choosing the most appropriate treatment in a rapidly evolving therapeutic landscape.
• Research into the underlying cause of CSU: What’s happening on the research front to uncover the root causes of CSU.

Dr. Matthew Zirwas, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and a nationally recognized expert in allergy patch testing, psoriasis, and eczema. He founded the Bexley Dermatology Research Clinic, offering patients access to the latest treatment options before they are widely available. Dr. Zirwas also serves as a dermatologic advisor for several companies, including ALL Laundry Detergent and Cerave, and contributes to Women’s Health Magazine. Learn more about Dr. Zirwas.

More resources about chronic spontaneous urticaria: 

• Chronic Urticaria Management, Resources & Glossary of Terms: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/management-and-resources/
• What is Chronic Urticaria: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/ 
• More information about Omalizumab (Xolair): https://www.xolair.com/chronic-spontaneous-urticaria.html

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Dr. G and Kortney delve into the challenges that asthmatics face during the fall season, also known as "peak week." Despite what the name suggests, asthma cases start to rise in the second week of September and continue into early October before returning to normal levels.

We begin by defining asthma and then explore why asthma attacks are more prevalent in September. We discuss the role of germs and viruses, indoor and outdoor allergens, and cold weather in exacerbating asthma symptoms. Dr. G also shares tips on how to lessen your exposure to these triggers. Additionally, we cover the importance of having an asthma action plan and the significance of well-controlled asthma.

Dr. G also discusses the financial aspects of asthma management and offers advice on how to discuss this with your doctor.

>>>> Listener survey: https://forms.gle/6Pb2PGq6nuVReasZ6

• Why September is Peak Asthma Season: Explore why asthma attacks increase in the fall and what you can do to prepare.
• The Role of Germs and Viruses in Asthma: Understand how illnesses can trigger asthma and learn tips for staying healthy.
• Indoor and Outdoor Allergens: Discover how common allergens like dust mites, pet dander, ragweed, and mold can affect asthma, and what you can do to limit exposure.
• Preparing for Peak Week: Essential steps to take before asthma season hits, including scheduling doctor visits and creating an action plan.
• Asthma Management Tips for Different Age Groups: Advice for school-aged children and elderly patients to ensure they receive the best care.

More resources about asthma peak week: 

• Asthma and Allergy Forecast: pollen and allergen count https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/weather/
• 10 Ways to Stay Healthy During the September Asthma Peak Week https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/news/10-ways-to-stay-healthy-during-september-asthma-peak/
• Seasonal allergies: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/news/seasonal-allergies/
• Asthma attack: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/asthma-attack/
• What if I Can’t Afford My Asthma Medication? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/what-if-i-cant-afford-my-asthma-medication/ 
• Asthma Management and Control (2:2:1 Rule) https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/asthma-management-and-control/
• AirQ https://www.airqscore.com/en/main-page.html 
• ACT Test https://www.asthmacontroltest.com/welcome/ 

We want to thank AstraZeneca for sponsoring this episode.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Kortney and Dr. Gupta tackle the myths and misconceptions around CSU. Unpacking its impacts on quality of life and the challenges those living with the condition face. They explore the realities of living with CSU, from the pervasive itch to the emotional toll it can take. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this episode offers valuable insights into the realities of managing CSU.

This podcast was made in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network. We thank Novartis for sponsoring this podcast.

• CSU is caused by allergies.
• CSU is contagious.
• CSU is a rare condition.
• CSU is not a serious condition.
• Stress is the main cause of CSU.
• CSU only affects the skin.
• CSU will go away quickly.
• There isn’t any treatment for chronic hives.
• Antihistamines are the only treatment for CSU.
• Changing your diet will help CSU.
• CSU can be cured.
• Once CSU goes away, it will never come back again.
• Men and women are equally affected by CSU.
• You can always pinpoint the exact cause of hives in patients with CSU.
• Autoimmune conditions are more common in people with CSU.
• Scratching hives is harmless.
• Once my hives are controlled, I need to be on the medication forever.
• All hives look the same.
• Only adults get CSU.
• CSU hives are always accompanied by other allergic symptoms like swelling or difficulty breathing.
• Having CSU doesn’t affect quality of life.
• The itch in CSU is not a big deal.
• Allergy testing will help me figure out why I have CSU.

More resources about chronic spontaneous urticaria: 

• Chronic Urticaria Management, Resources & Glossary of Terms: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/management-and-resources/
• What is Chronic Urticaria: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/ 
• More information about Omalizumab (Xolair): https://www.xolair.com/chronic-spontaneous-urticaria.html

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

We sit down with Heather, a patient living with chronic spontaneous urticaria, as she candidly shares her experiences from the initial diagnosis to navigating the complex landscape of treatments and mental health support. Her story sheds light on the day-to-day struggles and triumphs of managing CSU, offering hope and practical advice for those in similar situations.

Dr. G unpacks Heather's diagnosis and treatment journey, including antihistamines and Omalizumab. Dr. G also highlights the importance of managing mental health. Kortney shares her experience of itch and, with Heather, discusses the impact of chronic itching on quality of life and how to explain this to friends and family.

• Heather's Journey with CSU: Heather shares her initial diagnosis and the rollercoaster of emotions and challenges that followed.
• Anaphylaxis vs. CSU: Understanding the critical differences between these two conditions.
• Finding the Right Treatment Plan: The journey to discovering effective medications like antihistamines and the injectable - Omalizumab (Xolair).
• Mental Health Support: The importance of therapy and online resources in managing life with CSU.
• Management strategies: Heather shares what works for her in managing exacerbating situations. 
• Advice for New Patients: Heather offers valuable advice for those beginning their CSU journey.

More resources about chronic spontaneous urticaria: 

• Chronic Urticaria Management, Resources & Glossary of Terms: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/management-and-resources/
• What is Chronic Urticaria: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/ 
• More information about Omalizumab (Xolair): https://www.xolair.com/chronic-spontaneous-urticaria.html
• Episode Heather talks about where she learned to call her condition Lynda: https://www.itchpodcast.com/episodes/71-living-with-mastocytosis 

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Dr. Sheila Gogate joins us to discuss the chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) treatments currently available for patients. Dr. Shaila Gogate outlines the treatment journey for CSU with an emphasis on shared decision-making.  

This episode emphasizes the importance of following treatment guidelines and adjusting medications as needed. We discuss the available treatments for urticaria, including antihistamines, omalizumab (Xolair for hives), and Cyclosporine. The episode also explores the journey of managing CSU symptoms through both medical and non-medical approaches.

• Treatment Path and Guidelines: Overview of doctors' steps to treat CSU. The importance of shared decision-making in the treatment plan. 
• Antihistamines: Role of oral antihistamines and H2 blockers in managing hives, dosing options, side effects, when to change medications, and how to choose the right antihistamine.
• Advanced Treatments: If antihistamines fail, the following steps include omalizumab (Xolair) injections or Cyclosporine. An overview of both dosing options and side effects.
• Emerging Therapies: Treatments like Remibrutinib and Dupilumab.
• Quality of Life and Non-Medical Management: The Urticaria Activity Score (UAS7). Mental health screening for CSU patients and strategies like stress reduction and if special diets are effective.

Dr. Shaila Gogate, board-certified by the American Board of Allergy & Immunology, has been with Colorado Allergy & Asthma Centers since 2014. She completed her medical education at Chicago Medical School, her residency at Washington University, and her fellowship at National Jewish Health in Denver. Dr. Gogate has served as an Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado, has extensive clinical research experience, and emphasizes strong patient-provider communication to develop effective treatment plans.

More resources about chronic spontaneous urticaria: 

• Chronic Urticaria Management, Resources & Glossary of Terms: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/management-and-resources/
• What is Chronic Urticaria: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/ 
• How Mast Cells Work Video_ mast cell video - explanation of mast cell (07:20): https://youtu.be/OF7tBIvMK_0?si=osJaIpTrivUP1Owr
• Urticaria Activity Score (uas7): https://www.mdcalc.com/calc/10226/urticaria-activity-score-uas

More information about XOlair: https://www.xolair.com/chronic-spontaneous-urticaria.html

Dr. Carla Davis joins Dr. G and Kortney to discuss the impact of social determinants of health on food allergy outcomes within the Black community. Dr. Davis highlights historical factors like redlining and insurance disparities that exacerbate health disparities, resulting in higher prevalence rates of food allergies and multiple allergies among Black patients. These disparities often lead to increased emergency room visits and barriers to accessing allergen-free foods, compounded by socioeconomic challenges and food insecurity.

Dr. Davis also underscores how cultural differences significantly influence the management of food allergies within families, particularly during gatherings, and emphasizes the crucial role of media representation in raising awareness and promoting acceptance.

We discuss the critical need for increased Black representation in research trials, recognizing the challenges posed by longstanding mistrust in the medical community among Black patients.

Key Points Covered in This Episode:

• Health Disparities: Social factors significantly impact food allergy outcomes in the Black community.
• Limited Healthcare Access: Redlining and insurance disparities restrict healthcare access, worsening health outcomes.
• Food Insecurity: Challenges in accessing allergen-free foods are heightened by food insecurities and food deserts.
• Cultural Factors in Food Allergy Management: Cultural influences play a crucial role in managing food allergies within families.
• Resources for Food Allergies: Essential support from food banks and allergy organizations for managing allergies and food insecurity.
• Communication Tips for Patients: Practical advice for effective communication and advocacy with healthcare providers.
• Historical Mistrust of the Medical Community: Historical discrimination contributes to mistrust in healthcare, affecting access and outcomes.

Helpful Resources

• Health Disparities in Allergy, Asthma and Immunologic Diseases (New Webinar July 16, 2024): https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/webinars-updates/health-disparities-diseases/
• Black People Like Me Virtual Conference Series 2024: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/trusted-messengers-project/black-people-like-me-2024/
• Food Allergy Resources: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/allergies/ 
• School Plans for Students with Food Allergies: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/news/school-plans-students-food-allergies/

Food Equality Initiative - Food Allergy Friendly Food Bank Resource: https://www.foodequalityinitiative.org/

Join Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta in the second episode of this chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) series as they delve into the diagnostic journey of CSU. 

Have you wondered if the path to a chronic spontaneous urticaria diagnosis is long? CSU can feel like a very complex disease to diagnose due to the lack of identifiable triggers, but this episode breaks down the steps healthcare professionals take to diagnose CSU. 

Dr. G clarifies how allergists' and dermatologists' roles differ in diagnosing CSU. The episode emphasizes the importance of a detailed medical history and the tests involved in ruling out other conditions. It also describes the journey of determining CSU from other skin and allergic reactions through meticulous evaluation and specific testing methods.

• Introduction to CSU Diagnosis: CSU has no identifiable triggers, making diagnosis a process of elimination.
• Role of Specialists: Patients often start their diagnosis journey at urgent care, after which they consult allergists and dermatologists depending on the severity and symptoms of hives.
• Detailed Medical History: Essential questions cover medications, infections, travel history, and other health changes to rule out underlying causes.
• Physical Examination: Doctors check if hives are “blanchable” to differentiate from other conditions like vasculitis.
• Ruling out other Conditions: This involves evaluating other conditions in which hives are a symptom, such as mast cell disease or various autoimmune diseases. 
• Necessary Tests: Doctor’s apprehension about doing a food allergy test unless necessary. Other tests include looking at blood count (CBC with differential) and inflammation (ESR or CRP). 

More resources about chronic spontaneous urticaria: 

• Chronic Urticaria Management, Resources & Glossary of Terms: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/management-and-resources/
• What is Chronic Urticaria: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticari

This episode is produced in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network. We want to thank Novartis for sponsoring this episode.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Join Kortney and Dr. Gupta as they unpack chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) in a six-part series. You may also have heard of this condition called chronic idiopathic urticaria or spontaneous urticaria.

In this first episode, Kortney and Dr. Gupta dive into the nitty gritty of chronic spontaneous urticaria. They define the medical term "urticaria," commonly known as hives, and discuss how CSU differs from other forms of urticaria. They dive into the symptoms, including the itchy and transient nature of hives, and emphasize that CSU can vary in appearance depending on skin tone. 

What may seem complicated in chronic spontaneous urticaria is that there are no triggers. Instead, Dr. G walks us through the factors that may be culprits to CSU flares, such as stress and certain medications, and she highlights the impact of autoimmune conditions on CSU prevalence.

• Definition and symptoms of urticaria (hives)
• Differences between chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) and chronic inducible urticaria (CINDU)
• The definition of chronic spontaneous urticaria and its symptoms
• The role of histamine in hives
• The mechanisms of itch and why scratching feels so good
• Factors that can exacerbate chronic spontaneous urticaria
• Populations most affected by chronic spontaneous urticaria
• The average duration of CSU symptoms
• Is chronic spontaneous urticaria curable

More resources about chronic spontaneous urticaria:

• Chronic Urticaria Management, Resources & Glossary of Terms: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/management-and-resources/
• What is Chronic Urticaria: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/
• Episode 39: urticaria what causes hives? https://www.itchpodcast.com/episodes/39-urticaria

This episode is produced in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. We thank Novartis for sponsoring this episode and the series. 

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

Dr. Stephanie Lovinsky-Desir, an expert in respiratory health, joins Dr. G and Kortney to discuss how climate change exacerbates respiratory conditions like asthma, particularly affecting vulnerable populations. 

The episode explores why we should consider the connection between climate change and asthma. Understanding the mechanisms behind it is crucial. Dr. Lovinsky-Desir explains how increased temperatures lead to higher levels of air pollution and create “heat islands" in urban areas. Heat islands are urban areas that are significantly warmer than their surrounding rural areas due to human activities. These islands intensify health risks by trapping heat and pollutants, worsening air quality and increasing respiratory distress.

Dr. Lovinsky-Desir and Dr. G share practical measures that are easy to implement and can significantly help us navigate poor air quality. These include wearing masks during high pollution and monitoring air quality through initiatives like the State of the Air Report or your weather app. She also highlights the role of organizations like the American Lung Association in providing resources and support for improving indoor air quality.

We hope this episode helps you better understand climate change's impact on air quality, the overall environment, and lung health. Hopefully, you can take meaningful steps towards a healthier future for all. If you are in doubt about the impacts of climate change, this episode is for you!

• The relationship between air pollution, air quality and climate change
• The impact of climate change on season allergies
• The effect of air quality on lung health
• The populations most impacted by poor air quality
• Poor housing and its effects on lung health
• Programs and resources help make housing healthier 
• What you can do to keep your lungs safe
• How to explain to someone why they need to care about climate change and asthma

Helpful links

• More about our sponsor, Chiesi: https://www.chiesiusa.com/
• Pollen Report from Allergy Asthma Network: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/weather/ 
• State of the Air Report from The Lung Association: https://www.lung.org/research/sota
• Tips to Manage Asthma and Allergies Caused by Climate Change: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/news/climate-change-what-you-can/
• Lifestyle Changes to Manage Asthma: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/lifestyle-changes-to-manage-asthma/

Our guest, Dr. Marina Kremyanskaya, joins hosts Dr. G and Kortney to provide insight into the progression of systemic mastocytosis and the available treatment options to improve quality of life and extend lifespan.

Dr. Kremyanskaya distinguishes between indolent and aggressive systemic mastocytosis, shedding light on warning signs indicating disease progression. She offers a detailed exploration of treatment approaches for aggressive mastocytosis, highlighting the evolving treatment plan and differing prognosis from indolent cases. Additionally, Dr. Kremyanskayaa delves into the concept of myeloid malignancy, providing insight into the more challenging aspects of advanced systemic mastocytosis progression.

We also dive into stem cell transplants as a potential cure for advanced systemic mastocytosis. Dr.  Kremyanskaya explains why this option is not immediately pursued due to the complexity of the procedure and the risk of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD), a potential complication associated with stem cell transplants.

What we cover in this episode about advanced systemic mastocytosis:

• Understanding indolent systemic mastocytosis
• Signs indicating progression to advanced mastocytosis.
• Treatment strategies for aggressive mastocytosis and associated prognosis.
• Explanation of advanced systemic mastocytosis with or without hematologic malignancy.
• Definition of myeloid malignancy.
• Understanding the impact of advanced systemic mastocytosis on organs.
• The effectiveness of early treatment in slowing down the progression.
• The role of stem cell transplant in treating mastocytosis.
• Stem cell transplant and associated risks
  • Role of chemotherapy in stem cell transplant.
  • Overview of graft-versus-host disease.
  • Addressing whether stem cell transplant serves as a cure for mast cell disease.

• Mast Cell Disease Overview: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/
• What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/
• What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/
• The Mast Cell Disease Society: https://tmsforacure.org/

Dr. Douglas Tremblay, a leading hematologist, joins Dr. G and Kortney to discuss the role of a hematologist-oncologist in diagnosing and treating mastocytosis. We discuss bone marrow's vital role in diagnosing and treating systemic mastocytosis. 

Dr. Tremblay discusses the latest KIT inhibitors, a promising group of medications, and explains the difference between indolent and advanced systemic mastocytosis. He clarifies how KIT inhibitors work and emphasizes the importance of managing side effects. Finally, Dr. Tremblay provides insights into the future of KIT inhibitor approval and explores the possibility of participating in a clinical trial for Bezulastinib. 

What we cover in this episode about treating systemic mastocytosis:

• What is a hematologist looking at with mast cell disease patients?
• Mast cell diseases and the role of bone marrow
  • Bone marrow biopsy for systemic mastocytosis 
  • What is a bone marrow biopsy?
  • Information bone marrow biopsy provides for diagnosis
• KIT mutation 
• KIT mutation testing in bone marrow and blood (digital droplet PCR)
• Indolent Mastocytosis versus Advanced Mastocytosis
• Current research for treating mast cell disease
• How KIT inhibitors work
• Do KIT inhibitors weaken the immune system?
• KIT Inhibitors discussed in this episode:
  • Avapritinib
  • Bezulastinib
  • Elenestinib
• Are KIT inhibitors a cure for mast cell disease?
• Determining the tolerance for side effects of medications when researching and adding new medicines for diseases 
• The meaning of ‘NIB’ in the medication names
• The timeline for the new KIT inhibitors approval
• The type of patient that can participate in the clinical trials for Bezulastinib

• Dr. Tremblay: https://profiles.mountsinai.org/douglas-a-tremblay

  • Dr. Tremblay’s email: douglas.tremblay@mssm.edu 

• Mast Cell Disease Overview: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/

• What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/

• What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/

• The Mast Cell Disease Society: https://tmsforacure.org/

• Current studies enrolling patients: https://tmsforacure.org/clinical-trials/

As we continue to unpack mast cell disease, Dr. G and Kortney wanted to get the patient's perspective on living with such a complex disease. Tammie joins the podcast to discuss her journey battling mastocytosis, a rare condition affecting mast cells in the body.

If you ever feel alone on your chronic health journey, know you aren’t! Tammie's resilience and wisdom serve as a beacon of hope. We hope this inspires you to approach your health journey with determination and a sense of community.

What we cover in this episode:

• Tammie’s mastocytosis journey

• The challenges of not getting a proper diagnosis

• The pros and cons of being able to google medical conditions

• What do to when a doctor does not want to take you on as a patient 

• How Tammie separates the disease from her life 

• How do you navigate work with a chronic disease?

• Working with a mental health team

• How do you ask your family/friends for help

• Patient's relationship with their healthcare team

• Pros and cons of an online community for chronic disease and the importance of a real-life community

Connect with Tammie online:

• TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@rachelllargentphillips
• Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tammie_rachell/

Resources about mast cell disease:

• Mast Cell Disease Overview: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/

• What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/

• What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/

• The Mast Cell Disease Society: https://tmsforacure.org/

What we cover in this episode about low histamine diet and stress management

• Why go on a low histamine diet?
• What is histamine intolerance? 
• How well do low histamine diets work for mast cell disease?
• The impact of stress on mast cell disease
• Stresses impact on the gut
• Stress management is integral in mast cell disease treatment 

More resources about mast cell disease:

• Mast Cell Disease Overview: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/
• What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/
• What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/
• The Mast Cell Disease Society: https://tmsforacure.org/

Dr. Milner is back with us to discuss the difficulties in treating mast cell activation syndrome and mastocytosis. We will discuss the different approaches to treating mast cell disease and the medications used for mastocytosis treatment. Since no single treatment plan works for everyone, we will explore multiple strategies that can be helpful in managing this condition.

A note: when you hear MCAS mentioned, it stands for Mast Cell Activation Syndrome.

• What are the steps taken to treat mast cell diseases?

• Histamine blockers: antihistamines for mast cell disease and H2 blockers

• Mast cell stabilizers: Cromolyn and Ketotifen

• Xolair 

• Other medications that have been used but not recommended: aspirin, steroids, Singulair

• Epinephrine and anaphylaxis

• Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) for Mastocytosis: Avapritinib, Midostaurin

• Safety concerns and side effects of Tyrosine kinase inhibitors

•  Multidisciplinary approach to managing mast cell disease

Joshua Milner, MD, is a renowned leader in discovering and understanding genetic diseases leading to allergic symptoms, including Hereditary Alpha Tryptasemia Syndrome, PLAID, PGM3 deficiency, ERBIN mutation, and others. With a background in biology from MIT and an MD with distinction in immunology from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Dr. Milner has extensive experience in pediatrics and allergy and immunology, serving as chief of the Laboratory of Allergic Diseases at NIAID.

His vision is to leverage genetic variation to improve diagnosis and care for patients with allergic diseases through comprehensive genetic sequencing and functional studies, aiming for personalized medicine and interdisciplinary collaboration in pediatric allergy, immunology, and rheumatology.

More about Dr. Milner: 

• https://www.pediatrics.columbia.edu/profile/joshua-milner-md

• Mast Cell Disease Overview: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/

• What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/

• What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/

• The Mast Cell Disease Society: https://tmsforacure.org/

• FDA Approves AYVAKIT® (avapritinib) as the First and Only Treatment for Indolent Systemic Mastocytosis: https://ir.blueprintmedicines.com/news-releases/news-release-details/fda-approves-ayvakitr-avapritinib-first-and-only-treatment

• Eyegiene: why you need to clean your eyelashes

• How to clean your eyelid margin

• How often should you clean your eyelid margins

• How to know if it is eczema or blepharitis

• What to consider when using lash serums

• Are magnetic eyelash extensions a better alternative to traditional eyelash extensions?

Dr. G and Kortney are joined by Dr. Josh Milner, one of the top experts in the field of mast cell disease, as they dive into the complexities of diagnosing mast cell disorders, focusing on cases of unexplained anaphylaxis and using this as our guide to understanding all of the tests that doctors do to figure out what is happening with your mast cells. 

From histories to blood and urine tests to Darier's sign, bone marrow biopsies and more, we dig into the many tests needed for the detective work diagnosing mast cell disease. We learn that a nuanced approach is required to diagnose mast cell disorders and the importance of thorough evaluation to differentiate between potential causes.

This podcast was made in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network. We thank Blueprint Medicines for sponsoring this podcast.

• Unexplained anaphylaxis could be linked to mast cell disorders.

• Diagnostic tools:

  • Blood tryptase test (fast but time-sensitive)

  • Urine metabolite tests (easier, longer window)

  • Skin rash assessment (urticaria pigmentosa)

  • Bone marrow biopsy (serious cases)

• Symptoms: Sudden episodes, chronic issues like fatigue, depression.

Joshua Milner, MD, is a renowned leader in discovering and understanding genetic diseases leading to allergic symptoms, including Hereditary Alpha Tryptasemia Syndrome, PLAID, PGM3 deficiency, ERBIN mutation, and others. With a background in biology from MIT and an MD with distinction in immunology from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Dr. Milner has extensive experience in pediatrics and allergy and immunology, serving as chief of the Laboratory of Allergic Diseases at NIAID.

His vision is to leverage genetic variation to improve diagnosis and care for patients with allergic diseases through comprehensive genetic sequencing and functional studies, aiming for personalized medicine and interdisciplinary collaboration in pediatric allergy, immunology, and rheumatology.

More about Dr. Milner: 

• https://www.pediatrics.columbia.edu/profile/joshua-milner-md

• Mast Cell Disease Overview: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/

• What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/

• What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/

• The Mast Cell Disease Society: https://tmsforacure.org/

This podcast is made possible through Allergy & Asthma Network’s partnership with the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

Dr. G and Kortney had the special privilege of interviewing Dr. Gailen Marshall, the president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI). He explains what the ACAAI, also known as the College, does and why this matters to patients. We learn about the resources provided by the College, which offer patients invaluable support in managing their allergies. From accessing specialized care through the "Find an Allergist" tool to engaging with the ACAAI's educational materials and advocacy opportunities, patients are empowered to take control of their treatment journey.

We also dive into Dr. Gailen Marshall's work in psychoneuroimmunology, which sheds light on how both external and internal environments impact allergic reactions. We touch upon Dr. Marshall's Presidential Initiative, CAAPER, which bridges the gap between community and academic allergists, driving innovation in patient treatment. As allergy research continues to advance, Dr. Marshall's leadership underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and patient-centred care in navigating the complexities of allergic diseases.

What we cover in the episode

• Dr. Marshall’s field of study: Psychoneuroimmunology
• What does the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) do?
• How is the ACAAI relevant to patients?
• How can a patient take advantage of the resources the ACAAI has?
• How can patients be involved with the ACAAI?
• Why should you see an allergist?
• Dr. Marshall’s Presidential Initiative - Community and Academic Allergist Partnership in Education and Research (CAAPER)

Gailen D. Marshall, Jr. MD, PhD, FACP, is the president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and holds distinguished roles as Chair of Allergy and Immunology, Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, Vice Chair for Research, Director of the Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, and Chief of the Laboratory of Behavioral Immunology Research at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. 

With a background in both Immunology and Medicine from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston and extensive training at institutions like the University of Iowa and the University of Tennessee at Memphis, Dr. Marshall is renowned for his expertise in integrative approaches to managing inflammatory diseases. His research delves into the impact of psychological stress and environmental factors on immune responses, aiming to identify biomarkers for stress susceptibility.

With over 200 publications and active engagement as a speaker in regional, national, and international forums, Dr. Marshall also served as Editor-in-chief of the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, showcasing his leadership in the field. Additionally, he plays a vital role in professional societies like the Southern Society for Clinical Investigation, where he serves as Secretary-Treasurer and contributes to various committees, highlighting his commitment to advancing clinical research and education.

This podcast was made in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network. We thank Blueprint Medicines for sponsoring this podcast.

Dr. Anne Maitland joins us as we delve into the complex world of mast cell disease. From the confusing range of symptoms to the unpredictable nature of each person's experience, we unravel the mysteries that make mast cell disorders so uniquely difficult to tackle.

Dr. Maitland is an expert in allergy and immunology and sheds light on the diverse manifestations of mast cell dysfunction, from headaches and nasal congestion to gastrointestinal issues and skin reactions like hives.Dr. Maitland emphasizes the importance of recognizing mast cell dysfunction's impact across different organs for accurate diagnosis and management.

• Symptoms of mast cell disease

• How to connect the dots of mast cell disease symptoms

• What is a sign that your symptoms are related to mast cells

• The job of mast cells and their scientific history

• Is an anaphylactic reaction a mast cell disease?

• What triggers mast cell disease? 

• Mast cell targetted medications and how this can hide your symptoms

Dr. Maitland is a highly respected physician and a Fellow of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. She was named New York Times' Super Doctors in 2011 and one of America's Top 21 Women's Doctors by Lifescript.com in 2009. Dr. Maitland is actively involved in creating awareness of immune-mediated disorders and researches to enhance treatments for allergies, asthma, and recurrent infections. She specializes in allergic skin disorders, allergic rhinitis, drug allergies, food allergies/sensitivities, asthma, and recurrent infections. 

Dr. Maitland holds an MD and PhD from the University of Pennsylvania and completed her residency in Internal Medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston. She also pursued a Fellowship in Allergy and Immunology at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Mount Sinai Hospital in New York.

More about Dr. Maitland: 

• https://www.metrodora.co/anne-maitland

• https://www.drannemaitland.net/dr-anne-maitland

• Mast Cell Disease page: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/

• What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/

• What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/

• The Mast Cell Disease Society: https://tmsforacure.org/

Eyelash extensions have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a way to achieve fuller, longer lashes without the hassle of applying mascara every day. However, some potential risks are associated with eyelash extensions, including allergic reactions.

Dr. Janice Luk joins Dr. G and Kortney to discuss eyelash extensions and what happens when things go wrong. We dive into eyelash extension allergies and contact dermatitis, what the reactions look like, how to treat the reactions best and why you need to take care of your biofilm.

No one wants to play with their vision or have an allergic reaction around the eye; this episode will help you better understand what could happen and how to prepare your lash extensions properly.

• What are eyelash extensions?

• How eyelash extensions differ from what you can do at home

• What does the allergic reaction to eyelash extensions look like?

• Contact dermatitis versus an IgE-mediated allergic reaction

• What glues are being used, and what would cause the reaction?

• Symptoms and treatment for a lash extension allergy

• Why you don't want to use over-the-counter medication for your eyes

• The importance of keeping a clean biofilm

• Eyegiene

• Traction alopecia caused by lash extensions

• When should you seek medical attention for eyelash extension reactions

• What is the difference between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist

Have you ever wondered what releases histamine and how this happens? Then this episode is for you!

• What are mast cells, and what do they do?

• What are the different types of mast cell diseases?

  • Mastocytosis

  • Mast Cell Activation Syndrome

  • Hereditary Alpha-tryptasemia

• The 7 types of mastocytosis

• The cause of mast cell disease

  • KIT gene mutation in Mastocytosis

• Mast Cell Disease page: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/

• What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/

• What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/

We thank Blueprint Medicines for sponsoring this podcast.

Dr Golden joins us as we explore the delicate balance of doctors using fear to underscore the urgency of administering epinephrine during anaphylaxis. We discuss the crucial interplay between fear and anxiety, emphasizing the need for a sensitive approach to motivate patients to use their epinephrine without overwhelming those already grappling with anxiety. 

We discuss the mind-body connection and the similarities between anxiety attacks and allergic reactions when talking about anxiety caused by the fear of having an anaphylactic reaction. Dr. Golden also provides more information about the risk and co-factors associated with severe anaphylaxis.

What we cover in this episode about anxiety related to anaphylaxis:

• Balance of fear and anxiety to get patients to use Epinephrine 
• Mind-body connection around anxiety and anaphylaxis - anxiety attack’s similarity to a reaction 
• Environment allergies - why you do  not need to carry an Epinephrine device 
• Risk factors and co-factors of severe reaction 
• Epinephrine option for severe asthma

Helpful links:

• More about our guest Dr. David Golden
• What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/
• What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/
• What is a Food Allergy? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/food-allergies/
• What If I Can’t Afford my Epinephrine Medication? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-if-i-cant-afford-my-epinephrine/
• Episode sponsored by https://aquestive.com/anaphylm/.

Dr. Golden joins us again in this episode to explore the new products in development for administering epinephrine.

• The new types of ways to administer epinephrine:

  • Inhaler

  • Nose spray

  • Sublingual film 

• Why it has been challenging to find alternative ways to administer epinephrine other than an autoinjector.

• How do we know the new forms of delivery will work? 

• How are companies proving that the new delivery method will work like the auto-injectors do?

• How will studies be done to show the FDA that the new methods should be approved for patients to use?

• Why do we need new ways to administer epinephrine? 

• Will there be hesitation to use the new forms of epinephrine delivery?

• The importance of having doctors on board with these new forms of delivery.

• More about our guest Dr. David Golden

• More about Anaphylaxis: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/

• More about Epinephrine: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/

• What if I can’t afford my epinephrine? Learn more here: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-if-i-cant-afford-my-epinephrine/

We want to thank Aquestive for sponsoring this episode.

Listen to episode 59 for more information on Anaphylaxis and Epinephrine

After releasing the episode on biologics for asthma, Dr. G and Kortney decided to explore how to travel while on a biologic successfully. They unpack what considerations patients need to take when planning their trip. 

• Can you travel while on biologics, or can you only travel between doses?
• Can you travel with biologics that need to be administered by IV?
• Should patients get the green light from their doctor to travel?
• Is it possible to travel out of state or internationally?
• What should a patient consider when thinking about traveling

More about biologics, check out episode 56: https://www.itchpodcast.com/episodes/56-asthma-biologics 

What we cover in this episode:

• What is anaphylaxis
• When to use an Epinephrine device?
• How to determine if it is an allergic reaction or an anaphylactic reaction?
• How safe is it to use Epinephrine?
  • Why is epinephrine used to treat anaphylaxis?
  • Does epinephrine always work to treat anaphylaxis? Why would it not work?
  • What are the side effects of Epinephrine?
  • Do you have to go to the hospital after using Epinephrine?
• How does Epinephrine work?
• Why antihistamines do not work to treat anaphylaxis or a severe asthma attack
• Other treatments that are in the pipeline for anaphylaxis?
• Epinephrine dosing - how to know the right dose for kids and adults.
• When do you need a second dose of Epinephrine?
• Carrying two epinephrine devices
• Will the next anaphylactic reaction be worse?
• Why should we encourage having stock Epinephrine in schools, on planes, etc?

Helpful links:

• More about our guest Dr. David Golden
• More about Anaphylaxis: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/
• More about Epinephrine: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/
• What if I can’t afford my epinephrine? Learn more here: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-if-i-cant-afford-my-epinephrine/

This episode is especially important to our hosts as asthma has personally impacted them.

• A quick review of asthma

• Types and severity levels of asthma

• Asthma can manifest in various forms, including:

  • Allergic asthma (triggered by allergens).

  • Non-allergic asthma (triggered by factors other than allergens).

  • Occupational asthma (caused by workplace exposure).

  • Exercise-induced asthma.

  • Cough-variant asthma (primarily chronic cough).

  • Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD).

  • Late-onset asthma (developing in adulthood).

  • Eosinophilic asthma (inflammation-related).

  • Asthma can be categorized as mild, moderate, or severe based on symptoms and lung function tests. Severity impacts treatment strategies.

• Medications for asthma management

  • Rescue or emergency medication (for mild asthma).

  • Controller medication (for moderate to severe asthma). Controller medications include inhaled steroids, other medications, and biologics for severe cases.

• Assessing asthma control

• Asthma control is evaluated based on the "Rule of 2s". If you have two or more of the following, your asthma may not be controlled;

  • Symptoms more than two days a week.

  • Quick-relief medication usage more than two times a week.

  • Nighttime awakenings due to asthma more than two times a month.

  • Asthma exacerbations require oral steroids twice a year.

• What is good asthma control, and why is this important

• The long-term effects of uncontrolled asthma

• Asthma Peak Week.

• Creating an asthma action plan

• Working with healthcare providers and asthma coaches

Asthma Management and Control: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/asthma-management-and-control/ 

Asthma Action Plan: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/asthma-action-plan/  This page is great because it has multiple types of Asthma Action Plans.

Infographic about asthma peak in September: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/images/Asthma/September_Asthma_Peak_July2023v1.pdf

Asthma Coach: www. AsthmaCoach.org and https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/free-asthma-coach-program/.

Lifestyle Changes to Manage Asthma: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/lifestyle-changes-to-manage-asthma/

Biologic medications: www.BiologicMeds.org

Type 2 Inflammation: eosasthma.org https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/news/when-asthma-more-than-asthma-type-inflammation/

Dr. Luk joins Dr. G and Kortney to discuss ocular allergies, which are allergic reactions that affect the eyes. 

Ocular allergies are common and can cause significant discomfort and impaired vision. However, many people are unaware of the different types of ocular allergies, the treatments available, or the importance of prevention. If you always find yourself with itchy, red and watery eyes or around certain things, this episode is for you!

• The difference between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist

• Ocular allergy - what is this, and how is it different from systemic allergies? 

• The different types of ocular allergies: 

  • Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis

  • Perennial allergic conjunctivitis

  • Vernal keratoconjunctivitis

  • Atopic keratoconjunctivitis

• Treatment options for ocular allergies

• The dangers of rubbing your eyes and what to do instead

• All you need to know about eye drops

Dr. Janice Luk is a Toronto native who graduated with honors from the Doctor of Optometry and Bachelor of Science programs at the University of Waterloo. She is passionate about expanding her knowledge and bridging the gap between ocular aesthetics and dry eye disease. Janice communicates openly with her patients and volunteers with organizations like VOSH and Fighting Blindness Canada. She is an active member of multiple optometry associations.

Connect with her: https://www.instagram.com/ilukateyes/

In this episode, we explore a new form of asthma treatment, Biologics. These innovative treatments offer targeted relief by addressing the underlying causes of asthma, leading to improved symptom control and a better quality of life. Dr. G and Kortney discuss the current biologics on the market for asthma treatment. 

As this is a true deep dive, we have provided some more information about the Biologics discussed to help you build a better understanding. We have included images and graphs you can use when listening to the episode. 

What we cover in this episode:

• A background on how Biologic treatments work.
• The Biologics available for asthma - discuss who is a candidate, how they each work, how they are taken and some side effects. 
  • Omalizumab (Xolair)
  • Mepolizumab
  • Reslizumab
  • Benralizumab
  • Dupilumab
  • Tezepelumab

Images and graphs discussed in this episode: www.itchpodcast.com/episodes/56-asthma-biologics

A look at biologics in more depth: www.biologicmeds.org

More about type 2 inflammation: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/news/when-asthma-more-than-asthma-type-inflammation/

In this episode, we delve into the world of venom allergies, focusing on allergic reactions caused by flying insects and fire ants. Our hosts are joined by Dr. Farah Khan, who shares her valuable expertise, in explaining the underlying mechanisms of allergic reactions to venom allergies. 

• What types of insects can cause a venom allergy and lead to anaphylaxis; honey bees, bumble bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets and fire ants.
• Why mosquitos are not a concern for anaphylaxis.
• What a normal versus an allergic reaction to venom looks like.Local versus systemic reactions. What is the difference, and when do you need to worry that you will potentially have an anaphylaxic reaction.
• When should you see a doctor regarding your insect bite.
• Why testing is not straightforward for insect stings (venom allergy): insect sting allergies are rare, and we do not want to over-test. What happens after you have reacted a venom and how to work with your allergist.
• Only test people who have had an allergic reaction to a sting. Types of tests that would be used once you have reacted to venom. 
• How to determine whether you are a candidate for immunotherapy. 
• Why allergist test for systemic mastocytosis when talking about venom allergies.
• What to do when you get stung and the best medications to take.
• How to best prepare yourself to avoid getting stung.
• Advice to someone afraid of a stinging insect.

More information about this episode can be found here: www.itchpodcast.com/episodes/55-venom-allergy

Are you still confused about when to feed your baby allergens? Over the past few decades, there has been quite a shift in thinking about the early introduction of food allergens for babies, so your confusion is wholly justified. Dr. G dives into this exact topic and talks to two professionals, Meenal Lele and Dr. Katie Marks-Cogan, in the field of early introduction. She explores why the guidelines for introducing allergens have changed and how to introduce allergens safely and consistently. 

What inspired Meenal and Katie to develop products to help parents with early allergen introduction?

What is early food introduction? Why are we no longer avoiding food allergens in babies? 

What studies have shaped the protocol change around introducing allergens to babies? How does this impact 'high-risk' children?

The challenges for the studies and compliance hurdles parents faced.  

Why do babies develop food allergies? What hypotheses point to the increase in food allergies in children over the past three decades?

The guidelines for early introduction of allergens. How to feed allergens to infants safely?

Why do you want to consider the early introduction of allergens with your babies? 

The role of food allergies in a baby's eczema: if your baby has eczema, will they develop food allergies? When to see an allergist for your baby?

What is the best practice for diagnosing a baby's allergies, and why is testing not always appropriate? How to work with your medical team and rely on something other than online information. 

Fundamental studies about the early introduction of allergens: The LEAP study, EAT study, PETIT study

Meenal Lele is the founder of Lil Mixins, an allergy prevention company for babies. With experience as a food allergy parent and clinical knowledge, she created the company to provide options for parents introducing allergenic foods to their babies. Meenal holds an engineering and business degree from the University of Pennsylvania. She is the author of The Baby and the Biome, a book exploring the connection between a child's microbiome and their health.

Dr. Katie Marks-Cogan, MD, FAAAAI, FACAAI, specializes in allergies, asthma, and sinus disease. She is the head allergist at Ready.Set.Food and provides top-notch care to both kids and adults at Clear Allergy in Downtown Culver City, CA. As a mom of two, Dr. Marks-Cogan was inspired to work with Ready.Set.Food. Originally from Cleveland, OH, she graduated with honors from the University of Maryland School of Medicine after earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physiology and Neurobiology from the University of Maryland College Park.

Atopic dermatitis is not a diagnosis that you should go at alone. Your care team can consist of multiple health care professionals, from your GP to a nurse, a therapist, and even your pharmacist. Additionally, you should be an active member in creating your healthcare plan since you are the one who needs to follow through with it day in and day out. 

In this final episode of our Atopic Dermatitis in Skin of Color series, Dr. G and Kortney talk to Tonya Winders, the president of Allergy Asthma Network, to discuss the nurse's role in AD management and shared decision-making. Tonya also shares her experiences of having a daughter with atopic dermatitis and the psychological toll the disease can have on patients. 

What we cover in this episode:

- Who can all be a part of your healthcare team

- Telehealth for atopic dermatitis

- Why decision aids are essential to use

Interview with Tonya Winters: 

- Nurses in an outpatient setting - understanding their role in patients with atopic dermatitis.

- Nurse versus a nurse practitioner

- Developing an atopic dermatitis plan - asking what your goals are.

- Allergy and Asthma Network is working to help more nurses and physician assistants to become certified in managing atopic dermatitis.

- Shared decision making - what is it, and how can you be sure you are practicing this with your healthcare team

- How to talk to your doctor about your financial situation when making your treatment plan

- Using shared decision aids to help with shared decision making and as a guide to talking with your care team.

- The importance of addressing psychological health for people with atopic dermatitis

Helpful Links:

The role of the nurse in the care and management of patients with atopic dermatitis - Paper co-authored by Tonya: https://bmcnurs.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12912-020-00494-y

Shared Decision Making Aids: www.ithcpodcast.com

In the fourth part of the series on atopic dermatitis in skin of color, Dr. G and Kortney discuss all medications available to treat AD, from topicals (creams) to oral medication and injections. 

They also discuss how other strategies to treat AD that is more budget-conscious if your insurance does not cover certain medications. 

- Topical steroids: what are they, how to use them and their side effects

- Topical steroid withdrawal

- Other topicals that do not contain steroids

- Oral medication that may be prescribed for atopic dermatitis: oral steroids, antibiotics and antihistamines

- Biologics: what are they and their side effects

- Wet wrapping

- Phototherapy

From Shiv

- How to wet wrap and why she likes this form of treatment

Non-Steroidal Topicals

1. Calcineurin inhibitors - tacrolimus ointment (Protopic) and pimecrolimus cream (Elidel)
2. Phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor - crisaborole (Eucrisa)
3. JAK inhibitors. 

Bleach bath recipe from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI)

• Add ¼ - ½ cup of common 5% household bleach to a bathtub full of water (40 gallons). 
• Soak your torso or just the affected part of your skin for about 10 minutes
• Limit diluted bleach baths to no more than twice a week. 

More information about AD in skin of color: https://eczemainskinofcolor.org/eczema-diagnosis-skin-of-color/

In the third part of our 5 part series in collaboration with the Allergy & Asthma Network on atopic dermatitis in skin of color we are talking all about taking care of your skin and how to make your living environment more atopic dermatitis friendly.

Dr. G and Kortney the importance of skin hydration; the best ways to moisturize and shower. They also share ways to ensure your living environment is optimized for good skin conditions, from cleaning products to carpets. Finally, they go over the psychological side of atopic dermatitis and how to maintain balance in the body and the mind. 

What we cover in this atopic dermatitis in skin of color episode:

Understanding the importance of keeping atopic skin hydrated.

How to break the itch-scratch-rash cycle.

Skincare: bathing and moisturizing - the preferred types of cleansers and moisturizers to use.

How to make your living environment atopic dermatitis friendly.

Sleep hygiene for atopic dermatitis.

Managing stress to help control eczema - some things that can help you.

Strategies to stop scratching.

From Shiv

How moving helped her flares.

Seeking therapy was important to her mental health and skin healing.

Helpful atopic dermatitis in skin of color resources:

Resource for AD in skin of color:  https://eczemainskinofcolor.org/eczema-diagnosis-skin-of-color/

Dr G and Kortney discuss yoga for asthma - many of the tips can also apply to atopic dermatitis:https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/news/does-yoga-benefit-asthma/ 

More eczema episodes: https://www.itchpodcast.com/eczema

Yoga for asthma podcast: https://www.itchpodcast.com/episodes/48-yoga-asthma

Meet Shiv on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivaika/ 

In the second part of our 5 part series in collaboration with the Allergy & Asthma Network  on atopic dermatitis in skin of color we are talking about diagnosis!

Dr. G and Kortney discuss all of the tests involved in diagnosing atopic dermatitis (AD) in people with skin color. They also cover all of the skin conditions that are ruled out when a doctor is making a diagnosis and the importance of patient history in diagnosis. 

What we cover in this episode:

• A quick overview of what AD looks like in skin of color

• Skin conditions that may look like atopic dermatitis and common misdiagnosis

• The symptoms doctors look for when diagnosing atopic dermatitis

• Explanations of the  tests doctors use to diagnose atopic dermatitis- IgE blood test, component blood test, skin prick test, patch testing,and  skin biopsy

• How to diagnose eczema in babies and the link to food allergies

• The other factors that doctors take into account when diagnosing AD - the importance of patient history

From Shiv:

• Shiv shares her experiences with being diagnosed with atopic dermatitis and her experiences with different doctors.

Helpful Links:

• Link to images of AD in skin of color: https://eczemainskinofcolor.org/image-library/

• “What is eczema” from Allergy & Asthma Network: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-eczema/

• More about Shiv: https://www.instagram.com/shivaika/

In the first episode, we are going to talk about atopic dermatitis (AD) in people with skin of color. Atopic dermatitis affects everyone differently, which means it does not look the same on everyone or in every skin color. It is important to recognize this and to raise awareness on how AD impacts certain populations differently than others. 

Along with Kortney, Dr. G will be sharing her expertise as an allergist and will be overviewing the basics of AD. Special guest Shiv Sewlal shares her personal experiences with atopic dermatitis. 

What we cover in this episode

• Why are we doing a podcast series about atopic dermatitis (AD) in people with skin of color?

• What is atopic dermatitis?

• Is eczema the same thing as atopic dermatitis?

• What is the difference between child onset versus adult-onset atopic dermatitis? Can you develop AD as an adult?

• Why is atopic dermatitis more prominent in people with skin of color?

• How can housing impact your skin? 

• Why air conditioning can be helpful for people with atopic dermatitis.

• Why is atopic dermatitis underdiagnosed in patients with skin of color?

• What are the symptoms of AD in different skin colors?

• What are triggers? How do these make atopic dermatitis worse?

• How does mental health impact atopic dermatitis?

• What is the itch-scratch cycle?

• Who should you see if you think you have atopic dermatitis?

From Shiv

• Shiv shares what her atopic dermatitis looks like

• Shiv and her mom’s experience with therapy to help with her skincare

Helpful Resources

•  All our past atopic dermatitis episodes: https://www.itchpodcast.com/eczema

• More about Shiv: https://www.instagram.com/shivaika/

• "What is eczema" from Allergy & Asthma Network: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-eczema/

We are releasing the ‘Yoga breathing exercises for asthma’ panel discussion that Dr. G and Kortney had in the late fall of 2021. This was one of 3 Living Well with Asthma Virtual Events organized by Allergy & Asthma Network and sponsored by GSK.

- The benefits of yoga for your breath, asthma and overall health. 

- How yoga gives you more body awareness that helps with asthma management. 

- How to choose which form of yoga to do.

- When to use an albuterol inhaler before yoga.

- How to prepare for your first yoga class and what to look for. 

- The difference between doing yoga at home vs doing yoga in a studio.

Q&A section:

- Can yoga help with vocal chord dysfunction?

- How about going to a studio during the pandemic?

- Do you need to modify your yoga practice due to age?

- Are there any medical conditions that would stop you from doing yoga?

]]> Can yoga help with asthma management and control?

We are releasing the ‘Yoga breathing exercises for asthma’ panel discussion that Dr. G and Kortney had in the late fall of 2021. This was one of 3 Living Well with Asthma Virtual Events organized by Allergy & Asthma Network and sponsored by GSK.

- The benefits of yoga for your breath, asthma and overall health. 

- How yoga gives you more body awareness that helps with asthma management. 

- How to choose which form of yoga to do.

- When to use an albuterol inhaler before yoga.

- How to prepare for your first yoga class and what to look for. 

- The difference between doing yoga at home vs doing yoga in a studio.

Q&A section:

- Can yoga help with vocal chord dysfunction?

- How about going to a studio during the pandemic?

- Do you need to modify your yoga practice due to age?

- Are there any medical conditions that would stop you from doing yoga?

]]> The Itch: Allergies, Asthma & Immunology false No 1279 60 full #47 - The impacts of climate change on human health https://theitchpodcast.podbean.com/e/47-the-impacts-of-climate-change-on-human-health/ https://theitchpodcast.podbean.com/e/47-the-impacts-of-climate-change-on-human-health/#comments Tue, 11 Jan 2022 16:39:15 +0100 theitchpodcast.podbean.com/3a3a2501-6f44-31c8-b722-254c5fe33286 What are the impacts of climate change on human health?

Climate change is a large public health threat, it impacts all aspects of human health from physical to mental. Dr. Neelu Tummala joins us to discuss how we are seeing the direct effects of climate change on human health. She also shares ways that both patients and doctors can take action to help combat climate change. 

The face of climate change is no longer the polar bear, it is your son, your grandma, your neighbour, and even you!

• How is climate change impacting our health? 

• Why are doctors are concerned about the increased length of pollen allergy season? 

• What can doctors and patients do to make a difference with climate change?

  • Understanding what changes the government can do such as the Build Back Better Act

  • Supporting local organizations 

  • Energy efficiency home

• Building awareness: if you are living with a condition that is affected by climate change and your environment - talk about it!

• How climate change is impacting lower-income communities more than wealthy communities?

• Dr. Tummala explains why you want to talk about climate change with your doctor

• The importance of being aware of the air quality index

• How much impact does an individual have versus a government or big company?

• Plant-based diet - what if you love eating steak?

• Is recycling actually worth it?

More about Dr. Neelu Tammula

• Dr. Neelu Tummala is a board-certified physician, surgeon, writer and climate advocate who has a special interest in education and advocacy concerning the health effects of climate change and environmental injustice. 

• She is on the Steering Committee for Virginia Clinicians for Climate Action and is a trained Climate Reality Leader. She has worked with the American Lung Association, Union of Concerned Scientists, The Medical Society Consortium on Climate and Health, and Environment Virginia as a volunteer activist and educator.

• Follow Dr. Tummala on social media:

  • https://www.instagram.com/neelutummala/

  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/neelu-tummala-55600196/

  • https://twitter.com/neelutummala

If you have allergies or don’t have allergies, but you get your fair share of headaches and or migraines this episode is for you. 

We are joined by Dr. Huma Sheikh a board-certified Neurologist-Headache and Vascular Disorder Specialist. She gives us the 101 on all things headaches and migraines and lays out the connection between headaches and allergies. If you say you have sinus headaches then you will be sorely surprised to learn that is not a medical condition. 

What we cover in this importance of sleep episode 

What are headaches?

What is the trigeminal nerve, why is it important in headaches?

What is homeostasis?

Primary and secondary headaches - when headaches are a symptom and when is a headache the main disease such as a migraine. 

How are allergies and headaches linked?

The link between allergies and migraines?

What is a sinus headache?

Cross-over between allergies of the eyes and nose and headaches. 

What is trigeminal neuralgia? How to differentiate it from allergies. 

When should someone see a headache specialist?

Comorbidities and migraines.

How are migraines diagnosed?

Can certain foods and food intolerances cause headaches?

Can histamines cause headaches?

How are headaches and migraines treated?

NSAIDs - how do these medications work? What is an NSAID allergy?

How do you know that you need to see a doctor about your headaches?

ADDITIONAL INFO

Dr. Sheikh: @headachesnyc: https://www.instagram.com/headachesnyc/?hl=en

www.headachesnyc.com

NSAID list: 

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/transplant/programs/kidney/living_donors/NSAIDs%20List%20to%20Avoid.pdf

Dr. G and Kortney talk with Dr. Gharfeh is a double board-certified pediatric trained allergist/immunologist practicing in Oklahoma City. She has first-hand knowledge when it comes to OIT as she practices in clinic and has recently undergone OIT with her daughter. 

What we cover in this episode on Oral Immunotherapy

• The types of immunotherapy including OIT, SLIT, and epicutaneous.
• The current research and status of OIT for the different allergens.
• The status of peanut for OIT. 
• Unpack the advantages and disadvantages of Palforzia, the FDA-approved peanut pill.
• Outline the process of OIT at the allergist office.
• What happens is if you react during OIT.
• How allergists ensure the protein in the doses are used for OIT. 
• The pros and cons of doing oral immunotherapy as a patient and as a family such as the time commitment and risks of OIT.
• The reason why OIT is mostly targeted to under 18s. 
• The side effects of OIT.
• Risk of developing EOE during OIT. 
• Current unknown of OIT - will the desensitization last? How long will the patient need to take the maintenance dose?
• What should a patient think about when considering OIT
• How many foods you can do at a time with OIT
• Dr Gharfeh shares her personal experience doing OIT with her daughter

• Palforza: https://www.palforzia.com/
• Dr. Wasserman, the protocol Dr. Garfeh and her colleagues follow: https://www.allergypartners.com/northtexas/doctors/?providerid=796
• Dr. Maya N. Gharfeh's bio: https://oklahomaallergy.com/team/maya-gharfeh/
•  Dr. Garfeh on Instagram @allergistmama and Twitter @Maya Gharfeh MD

Dr. Wright, a board-certified allergist and Medical Director at Thermo Fisher Scientific, joins Dr. G and Kortney to bust common misconceptions that circulate around food allergies as well as answer your questions.

- The difference between food allergy and food intolerance.

- How an allergist diagnoses a food intolerance.

- What medication exists for people with intolerances and how they work.

- How likely is it for your second child to develop a food allergy if their sibling does.

- Should you get your child tested for an allergy before introducing an allergenic food?

- If your child has eczema will they develop a food allergy?

- If you are allergic to peanuts will you also be allergic to legumes?

- If taking a food out of your diet will lead you to become sensitized to it and potentially develop an allergy to it?

- Is it true that when your allergen appears on a may contain label, you have to 100% avoid eating it?

- When it is appropriate to use Benadryl for an allergic reaction. 

- The importance of epinephrine auto-injectors.

- Why you should not become complacent about having “little reactions”. 

- Can antihistamines mask anaphylaxis?

- Will throwing up the food with an allergen in it lessen your chances of having a reaction?

-  Could you have an allergic reaction if you did not swallow the food with your allergen in it?

This episode was sponsored by Allergy Insider.

Allergy Insider

- Allergy Insider: https://www.thermofisher.com/diagnostic-education/patient/us/en/allergy.html?cid=0so_3pc_01062021_L5HBXE

- Follow @allergyinsider on Instagram for more information on allergies: https://www.instagram.com/allergyinsider/

- Follow Allergy Insider on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AllergyInsiderUS/

- Follow Dr. Wright on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.wright_allergist/

More information about:

- Food Allergy vs. Food Intolerance: https://www.thermofisher.com/diagnostic-education/patient/us/en/blog/food-allergy-vs-food-intolerance-blog.html?redirect=false&cid=0so_3pc_01062021_L5HBXE

- How to read a label: https://www.thermofisher.com/diagnostic-education/patient/us/en/blog/how-to-read-a-food-label.html?redirect=false&cid=0so_3pc_01062021_L5HBXE

- How to Prepare for a Food Allergy Emergency: https://www.thermofisher.com/diagnostic-education/patient/us/en/blog/how-to-prepare-for-a-food-allergy-emergency.html?redirect=false&cid=0so_3pc_01062021_L5HBXE

Relevant The Itch Episodes:

- Ep. 22: Food Allergy Myth Busting - https://www.itchpodcast.com/post/episode-22

- Ep. 42: What are cross-reactive allergens? - https://www.itchpodcast.com/post/cross-reactive-allergens

- Ep. 2: The science behind an allergic reaction - https://www.itchpodcast.com/post/episode-2

In this episode, Dr. G and Kortney are joined by Dr. Wright, a board-certified allergist and Medical Director at Thermo Fisher Scientific, as they demystify cross-reactivity in food allergies. 

- What is cross-reactivity? Cross-reactivity with pollen versus cross-reactivity between IgE mediated allergens.

- What is oral allergy syndrome (OAS), and why do allergists prefer pollen food allergy syndrome?

- The difference between OAS and true food allergies causing anaphylaxis.

- How do you know it is an allergy due to pollen cross-reactivity (OAS)? 

- What are the symptoms of OAS?

- How is oral allergy syndrome diagnosed?

- Can you have anaphylaxis to foods that OAS causes?

- Are there some fruits and vegetable varieties that are better for people to eat who have OAS?

- When do people start to develop OAS?

- Who would typically develop OAS?

- The cross-reactive pollens and their cross-reactive foods.

- The types of tests available for testing cross-reactive allergens: skin prick, blood test and component testing. 

- How to determine if a food is an allergen due to pollen cross-reactivity or IgE mediated.

- Why would you consider getting component testing?  

- How component testing can help determine if you can tolerate baked eggs and baked milk.

- How to determine if you are a candidate for an oral challenge.

This episode is sponsored by Allergy Insider.

Allergy Insider

- Follow @allergyinsider on Instagram for more information on allergies: https://www.instagram.com/allergyinsider/

- Follow Allergy Insider on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AllergyInsiderUS/

- Allergy Insider’s #ThatKid Campaign: https://www.thermofisher.com/diagnostic-education/patient/us/en/that-kid.html

- Follow Dr. Kia Wright on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.wright_allergist/

More information about:

- Understanding allergy cross-reactivity: https://www.thermofisher.com/diagnostic-education/patient/us/en/understanding-allergies/cross-reactivity.html 

- OAS (oral allergy syndrome): https://www.thermofisher.com/diagnostic-education/patient/us/en/allergy-symptoms/head-eyes-ears-nose-throat-heent-allergy-symptoms/oral-allergy-syndrome-oas.html

- Component testing: In the US, component testing available: Milk, egg, peanuts, some tree nuts (hazelnuts, walnuts, Brazil nuts, cashew)

- More information about allergy testing: https://www.thermofisher.com/diagnostic-education/patient/us/en/testing-for-allergy-triggers.html

Relevant The Itch Episodes:

- Ep. 34: What are allergies of the eyes and nose (environmental allergies): https://www.itchpodcast.com/post/episode-34

- Ep. 35: How to treat environmental allergies (allergies of the eyes and nose): https://www.itchpodcast.com/post/episode-35

- Ep. 5: The types of food allergy testing & why they can be so hard to interpret: https://www.itchpodcast.com/post/episode-5

• Impact of climate change and air pollution for seasonal allergies and asthma.
• What are seasonal allergies?
• Air quality:
  • Why people with environmental allergies and asthma should pay attention to it
  • Air quality index
  • Indoor air quality should not be ignored.
• Climate change:
  • Warmer temperature’s impact pollen
  • Earlier pollen season, frost comes later
• Covid-19 and asthma:
  • The outcomes are not worse
  • How to differentiate if it is Covid-19 or seasonal allergies (Hay Fever does not mean fever is a symptom)
• Why talking to your doctor and getting your asthma under control is so important for your health
• What mask-wearing can signal about your asthma
• Signs of uncontrolled asthma
• Allergy Capitals Report and Asthma Capitals Report made by AAFA
  • What are they measuring and why is this important?
  • Cities/urban environments are a good place to look at what the impacts of climate change will look like in the future for individuals with asthma and allergies
• How to minimize your allergy symptoms

• AAFA Online community: aafa.org/join
• AAFA’s 2021 Allergy Capitals™ report: allergycapitals.com
• Healthy Home
• Indoor Air Quality
• Control Indoor Allergens
• SYMPTOMS CHART: IS IT COVID-19, THE FLU, A COLD, ALLERGIES OR ASTHMA?

• Facebook: @AAFANational
• Instagram: @aafanational
• Twitter: @AAFANational

Dr. Manisha Relan is a pediatric allergist and clinical immunologist at a private practice in central New York, where she sees both children and adults for all things allergy. She loves learning and teaching. During fellowship, she was in charge of anaphylaxis training via a simulation lab experience; in her practice she is passionate about women’s health, food allergies, rhinitis, and immunotherapy. She maintains a personal professional Instagram account @pedsallergymd where you can follow her for more.   

The 3 definitions of anaphylaxis.

How movies and TV shows help patients describe their allergic reactions.

How allergists use movies and TV shows to help understand what their patients have experienced.

Why media should ensure they are properly portraying food allergies.

The negative impacts of media using food allergies as a joke.  How does this directly impact the food allergy community?

The misinformation being portrayed by the media when showing an allergic reaction. 

Beyond humour, the other focus in media is harming people who have food allergies. How does this bullying impact people managing allergies?

Should kids sit at an allergy table?

What shows are doing it right? 

Friends: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ub3sE1ww6ac

1. Allergy: kiwi.
2. Ross is allergic to lobster, peanuts, kiwi. He eats a kiwi-lime pie thinking it was key-lime. 
3. Symptoms: throat/tongue swelling
4. Treatment: goes to hospital

Hitch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdDPoFcBZEY

1. Allergy: seafood. 
2. Symptoms: throat feels itchy (trying to scratch the throat), swelling. 
3. Treatment: Running to a pharmacy, buying Benadryl is not an accurate way to treat it.

Monster-in-Law: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MHpyl6uVPrw, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l8XC_Zee8XA

1. Allergy: almonds. 
2. Symptoms: tongue swelling and lips. 
3. Treatment: not shown

Peter Rabbit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9VwWPnHZMrs

1. Allergy: blackberry
2. Symptoms: not really shown
3. Treatment: Has epipen on him, no hesitation to use it. 

Daniel Tiger: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysEk_aLvGYg

1. Allergy: peach
2. Symptoms: itchy, hives - red bumps, tummy ache 
3. Treatment: liquid medication

Arthur: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZ5JB7z7nOk

1. Allergy: peanut
2. Symptoms: itchy
3. Treatment: adrenaline pen