What is a Pollen Allergy

Call it what you will – pollinosis, a nasal allergy, or just plain “hay fever” – millions of people suffer from the effects of pollen every day. The affliction ranges in form from a small and short sniffling in the morning hours to full-blown sneezing fits throughout the day. The condition is irritating and aggravating but, rest assured, it is not life threatening.

What exactly is pollen?

Pollen grains are part of the male portion of seed plants. It is an integral part of the plant ecosystem around us and by its very nature is commonplace. In fact, without pollen, life on the planet Earth would not even be possible – so get used to the fact that it will be around for some time to come. This last fact does not mean, however, that human healthcare specialists are unable to deal with a pollen allergy in any meaningful way.

What can be done to alleviate an allergy to pollen?

Healthcare professionals have developed a number of effective remedies but it really takes a specialist to recommend the most effective one. In particular, you may be prescribed antihistamines or decongestants to start, nasal corticosteroids if these first two do not prove effective or an ipratropium or a leukotriene modifier. If these medicines do not solve the problem, an allergy specialist may finally resort to immunotherapy administered by injection.

This information is of more than passing concern to any resident of the Phoenix area who is even mildly allergic to pollen. In fact, it is integral to their well-being. Keep it in mind whenever you have an allergic reaction to pollen and if you do need more information on the basics of pollen, why it provokes an allergic reaction and how best to treat it, please contact us at Adult & Pediatric Allergy Associates. We can be booked online, or reached directly at 602-242-4592.

Why Choose an Allergy Doctor over your regular Doctor or Naturopath?

Your relationship with your Phoenix allergy doctors should be a relationship you can trust. You want to know for certain that you or your child will receive the best care available for asthma and allergy symptoms in Arizona. In the realm of allergy and asthma, where difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis are always a possibility, you're putting your life in your doctor's hands.

An Allergy Doctor Versus A General Practitioner

The benefit of seeing an allergy doctor is that a specialist's focus is on allergy symptoms, triggers, and treatments. A general practitioner has a broad overview of many health conditions, but an allergy doctor has unique exposure to and experience with allergies. By having a narrower focus, a specialist is able to give you better insight into the causes and remedies for your condition.

A Variety of Techniques

Your allergy doctor should be familiar with a variety of testing and treatment techniques to meet your unique needs. Our Phoenix area locations all perform allergy scratch testing, food allergy testing, asthma management, and allergy/immunotherapy to help you navigate life with these sometimes-chronic conditions.

Multiple Arizona Locations

Adult & Pediatric Allergy Associates, P.C. is an allergy treatment practice committed to providing the latest and most comprehensive treatments for both adult and pediatric patients. Our team of Arizona of allergy doctors is eager to work closely with each of our patients to provide the most effective diagnostic methods and treatment.

Choose A Board-Certified Allergy Doctor

Quality care begins with professionally trained doctors who specialize in treating allergy, asthma, and immunology. We are fortunate enough to have two allergy doctors in Phoenix who meet those qualifications. Both Dr. Fadia Habib-Khazen and Dr. Housam Alasaly are medical doctors, certified in allergy and immunology, that specialize in children, families and adults.

If you're looking for an allergy doctor in Phoenix, Glendale, Avondale, Anthem, or Scottsdale, give our offices a call. Our trained professionals are here to help you feel better. Schedule an appointment to consult with  allergists and Immunologists, Dr. Habib-Khazen and Dr. Alasaly  Aside from our main clinic in Phoenix, we have satellite offices in Glendale, Avondale, Anthem, and Scottsdale   Be Free from Allergies! Please call today 

Could your Asthmatic Attack be because of your Dad?

Across the U.S., more than 15 million people over the age of 18 and another 5 million under 17 have been diagnosed with the chronic disease called asthma. A diagnosis of asthma should be taken seriously, as it can lead to a life-threatening situation without any warning. 

If you are one of the millions who are living with asthma, it's important that you know the factors that increase your risk of an asthmatic attack. Knowing those risks can be the difference that saves your life.

Genetics

A pattern of allergies and asthma amongst family members could be an indication that you will be susceptible to developing this disease as well. Know your family history to determine if this is a risk factor for you. Yes, the fact that that your mom or dad has asthma - could be a predictor if you are going to have it.

Prenatal Lung Damage

When an expectant mother smokes, the fetus is subjected to the pollutants in the same manner as the woman, during the critical developmental process. Was your biological mother a smoker? This could increase your risk of allergies and/or asthma.

Also true is the fact that a premature birth can interrupt the development of a person's airways. Anyone who is born earlier than projected could have a higher susceptibility to asthma.

Chemical Pollutants

Breathing in chemicals and harsh pollutants can cause damage to the sensitive air passages that our bodies need to survive. When you are working with these substances, wearing appropriate safety gear is always recommended. Otherwise, you may find yourself in further danger of experiencing asthma for the rest of your life.

For more information on avoiding the worst of the asthma and asthmatic allergies, please contact us at Adult & Pediatric Allergy Associates, P.C.. 

Asthma can be fatal: take steps to protect yourself!

Asthma seems to be a growing problem in Arizona. Our state sees more cases every year according to a study done by University of Arizona. Even though scientists have not yet found a cure for asthma, there are steps you can take to reduce or eliminate its risks.

Here are some points to keep in mind for guarding against this sometimes fatal disease that relates to how inflammation in the lungs causes breathing difficulties.

Is Phoenix to blame?

Specialists know that there is not one specific cause of asthma, but there is plenty of evidence that it can be managed if you pinpoint what triggers your attacks. Keep in mind the Phoenix desert is prone to many allergens. Here are some of the known causes:

1. Heredity (yes, family genetics comes into play again!)
2. Exposure to allergens at a young age
3. Environmental conditions (pollen, pollution)
4. Mold and mildew
5. Chemical products such as cleansers and perfume
6. Animal dander from pets
7. Other: Non allergic asthma can be caused by reflux disease, inappropriate exercise, weather or various illnesses. 

Protect Your Lungs:

The main focus for preventing asthma is to protect the bronchial in your lungs. Inflammation can lead to coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and weakened response to allergens. Obviously, all asthma patients should avoid smoking or breathing in any substances that make symptoms worse. 

Learn Your Triggers:

There are many possible triggers to asthma attacks, but they can also be categorized into groups, as listed above. You can learn what elements or conditions affect your illness by eliminating items such as certain foods, chemicals or indoor plants one at a time. Lifestyle plays a huge role in managing your disease, so pay attention to nutrition, exercise and a sense of well being. 

What Allergy Sufferers Should Know Before Moving to the Desert

If you suffer from allergies –particularly if they are severe-, you might think moving out to the desert will help relieve your symptoms. However, what seems like the perfect solution might actually wind up making your allergies worse, or causing you to develop new ones. While you might not have the tree pollen you’re allergic to, deserts often have winds that whip up dust and sand. In addition, many desert communities have added golf courses to attract vacationers and retirees, which means extra grass pollen, dust, and spores are kicked into the air every time the greens are mowed or otherwise manicured. Lastly, while you may have left behind what you were allergic to back home, your immune system may inevitably develop sensitivities to the trees and vegetation in your new desert home, leaving you miserable all over again. 

Why does this happen? Blame the fundamental cause of allergies: your immune system. An allergy develops when your body’s immune system mistakes something harmless –such as ragweed, grass, tree pollen, or dust- for a harmful pathogen and mounts a defense against it. It’s that immune response that causes the classic allergy symptoms that make you so miserable. When you move to a different climate, you might be able to escape your allergies for a few years. But as you grow accustomed to the new climate and environment, your immune system may find new potential allergens to latch onto, which starts the allergy cycle all over again. 

So how can you make your transition to a new location as smooth and symptom free as possible? Check in with your doctor or an allergist at an allergy and asthma clinic. They can discuss your symptoms with you, educate you on potential allergy risks in the area you will be moving to, and recommend a course of treatment that may help mitigate your symptoms.

A Scottsdale Asthma Doctor Explains Asthma Symptoms in Toddlers

Diagnosing asthma in young children is difficult, but early diagnosis is essential to reducing asthma related flare ups and complications. Doctors have an especially difficult time diagnosing asthma in young kids because many viral illnesses mimic asthma symptoms. A Scottsdale asthma doctor explains the signs parents should watch for in their children.

The most common asthma symptoms in children include coughing, wheezing, troubling breathing, and recurring bronchitis. Children with asthma may experience a tight or uncomfortable feeling in their chest. However this can be much more difficult to spot because younger children have trouble communicating their symptoms. Parents should be particularly mindful if they notice decreased activity in their toddler due to breathlessness. If your child avoids running and playing or becomes tired quickly and begins coughing during physical activity, be sure to mention these symptoms to their physician.  

Further complicating diagnosis is the fact that some children experience few symptoms on a daily basis, but experience severe asthma attacks on other occasions. Other children will experience mild symptoms almost constantly and show an increase in symptoms during physical activities or when exposed to allergens. Smoke and seasonal allergies are well known for triggering asthma activity.

One of the premier asthma doctors in Arizona encourages parents who believe their child is suffering from asthma or asthma related symptoms to consult with their doctor. Parents have the most contact with their children and are in the best position to recognize symptoms of this complicated condition. Early diagnosis is crucial to help children live full and healthy lives.

Scottsdale Allergist: Signs and Symptoms of Food Allergies

Diagnosing asthma in young children is difficult, but early diagnosis is essential to reducing asthma related flare ups and complications. Doctors have an especially difficult time diagnosing asthma in young kids because many viral illnesses mimic asthma symptoms. A Scottsdale asthma doctor explains the signs parents should watch for in their children.

The most common asthma symptoms in children include coughing, wheezing, troubling breathing, and recurring bronchitis. Children with asthma may experience a tight or uncomfortable feeling in their chest. However this can be much more difficult to spot because younger children have trouble communicating their symptoms. Parents should be particularly mindful if they notice decreased activity in their toddler due to breathlessness. If your child avoids running and playing or becomes tired quickly and begins coughing during physical activity, be sure to mention these symptoms to their physician.  

Further complicating diagnosis is the fact that some children experience few symptoms on a daily basis, but experience severe asthma attacks on other occasions. Other children will experience mild symptoms almost constantly and show an increase in symptoms during physical activities or when exposed to allergens. Smoke and seasonal allergies are well known for triggering asthma activity.

One of the premier asthma doctors in Arizona encourages parents who believe their child is suffering from asthma or asthma related symptoms to consult with their doctor. Parents have the most contact with their children and are in the best position to recognize symptoms of this complicated condition. Early diagnosis is crucial to help children live full and healthy lives.

Diagnosing asthma in young children is difficult, but early diagnosis is essential to reducing asthma related flare ups and complications. Doctors have an especially difficult time diagnosing asthma in young kids because many viral illnesses mimic asthma symptoms. A Scottsdale asthma doctor explains the signs parents should watch for in their children.

The most common asthma symptoms in children include coughing, wheezing, troubling breathing, and recurring bronchitis. Children with asthma may experience a tight or uncomfortable feeling in their chest. However this can be much more difficult to spot because younger children have trouble communicating their symptoms. Parents should be particularly mindful if they notice decreased activity in their toddler due to breathlessness. If your child avoids running and playing or becomes tired quickly and begins coughing during physical activity, be sure to mention these symptoms to their physician.  

Further complicating diagnosis is the fact that some children experience few symptoms on a daily basis, but experience severe asthma attacks on other occasions. Other children will experience mild symptoms almost constantly and show an increase in symptoms during physical activities or when exposed to allergens. Smoke and seasonal allergies are well known for triggering asthma activity.

One of the premier asthma doctors in Arizona encourages parents who believe their child is suffering from asthma or asthma related symptoms to consult with their doctor. Parents have the most contact with their children and are in the best position to recognize symptoms of this complicated condition. Early diagnosis is crucial to help children live full and healthy lives.

Have asthma? Why seeing a specialist is so important!

Family physicians and general practitioners are great for handling day-to-day health issues. But oxygen deficiency resulting from asthma symptoms can be serious business. That’s where a great Phoenix asthma specialist can help. What makes them “special”? An asthma doctor in Phoenix is trained specially for taking care of kids, adults or the elderly who are dealing with asthma and allergy induced asthma.

How much training does an asthma specialist have? 

Your local allergy & asthma clinic asthma specialist has received a minimum of 9 years of training, as well as an additional two year fellowship focused on either allergic or lung diseases. Types of doctors that treat asthma include:

·         Allergists/Immunologists
Treat allergic diseases, including asthma.

·         Pulmonologists
Specialize in diseases affecting the lungs.

Why so much training?

Because asthma is serious business. It cannot be managed with a simple prescription such as with colds, flus, aches and pains. Asthma is a chronic disease, requiring constant monitoring and attention for effective management and prevention of dangerous asthma attacks.

What are the benefits of seeing an asthma specialist?

·         Better management of symptoms.

·         Reduced absences from work/school due to asthma symptoms.

·         Less emergency room visits.

·         Improved quality of life.

Do I need an asthma specialist?

If you’ve been trying to manage asthma for months without relief of symptoms, an asthma specialist may be better able to help you keep the condition under control. An asthma specialist is an especially good idea if you:

·         Have been hospitalized for asthma symptoms due to the inability to control them.

·         Have experienced life-threatening asthma attacks.

·         Are suffering unusual asthma symptoms.

·         Experience allergy-induced asthma symptoms.

·         Have other health conditions.

Ready to start breathing easier? Find an Arizona based asthma specialist  near you today.

Things Your Immunologist Wishes You Knew About Allergies

It goes without saying enduring allergy symptoms is a miserable experience. Add to that allergy ignorance, and you’re looking at long-term suffering. Fortunately, that suffering can be alleviated. Unfortunately, your Glendale Asthma & Allergy Clinic may assume you have the necessary information to address the situation when, in fact, you’re seriously in the dark.

Shed some light on stubborn allergy symptoms with these potentially missing links:

If the immunologist at your local allergy and asthma clinic could get in your head, you might discover…

• You may be taking the wrong medication
  Avoiding the doctor with over-the-counter (OTC) oral antihistamines isn’t helping. Prescription steroid nasal sprays and prescribed antihistamines work significantly better.

• You waited too long
  Starting medication prescribed by your allergy or asthma doctor after allergies set-in makes treatment difficult.

• You need some personal space from your pet
  Keeping them out of your bedroom will make a huge difference – as will a HEPA air purifier.

• Your pet’s NOT hypoallergenic
  He might shed less hair, but you could be allergic to dander or saliva.

• You DO need those expensive bedding covers
  Pillow and mattress encasings between 2-4 microns prevent dust mite migration for those with dust mite related allergies.

• Neti pots work
  Even allergists use them.

• You can’t outrun allergies
  No matter how far away you move, you could develop allergies anywhere at any time. And if you’re allergic to one kind of pollen, it increases your likelihood of developing allergies to other (new) pollens.

• You don’t have to suffer
  Though you might feel like it, you won’t die from allergic rhinitis. But suffering through them without visiting the immunologist won’t win you a medal. Untreated symptoms could end up costing you more in sinus and ear infections – and lost sleep. Stop waiting for spontaneous remission and get help. 

Tired of sneezing your way through the day? Find an allergy and asthma clinic near you today!

It’s a NEW YEAR!!! Time to quit suffering from allergies

The army of allergy sufferers in this world know how difficult it is to live with their symptoms throughout the year. Although there are spikes in various allergens within your local environment at different times of the year, leaving allergies untreated means you are often miserable. That's why it is important to trust your health to your Scottsdale Allergist at a local allergy or asthma clinic

Living with Allergies

This is a tall order for anyone who didn't grow up with allergies. At any time, your body can react to allergens. Sometimes, the symptoms get so severe that you don't want to get out of bed. Here are a few: headaches, shortness of breath, a feeling that your chest is swollen, clogged ears, a constant drip in the back of your throat, a scratchy feeling, swollen glands, blurry, itchy, and watery eyes, and constant fatigue.

Allergies have the power to affect your whole body. Oftentimes, it takes mind over body just to get through the day. And, if you have had allergies for any period of time, a daily antihistamine is not worth much more than a sugar pill. It only works on a good day when you believe in it. That's the placebo effect. The rest of the time, the antihistamine is worthless.

Long-term solutions to allergies, whether seasonal or year-round, come with time. Trust your care to a talented allergy and asthma specialist. Our doctors are caring people who want to review all of your medical history and treat you as a whole patient. There will be things that you need to do to adjust your diet and remove allergens from your home. The total effect of medical treatments and small lifestyle changes will be worth it. Without the effects of allergies, you will have more energy and start to enjoy life again.

Ask us how allergy relief begins. Our allergy doctors can help.

Worsening Children's Allergies: Is Your Dishwasher to Blame?

Hate handwashing your dishes, relying on your dishwasher to make your daily chore list a little lighter? You could be contributing to your child’s allergy and asthma symptoms, according to a recent study *published in the journal Pediatrics conducted by pediatric allergy doctors.

A dirty discovery:
In the questionnaire-based study, pediatric allergy doctors focused on 1,029 children ages 7-8. The findings: Families who utilized hand dishwashing over automatic dishwashers experienced a reduced risk of allergic symptoms such as asthma, eczema, nasal congestion, runny nose, post-nasal drip, sneezing, red eyes, and itching of the nose and eyes. Children who at more fermented or farm-fresh foods were also noted as exhibiting lower rates of allergies, with the lowest risk associate with those children whose dishes were hand washed and food was procured directly from farms.

Too much of a good thing:
According to the hygiene hypothesis, children in developing countries grow up in an overly sanitized world, their lack of exposure to even common microorganisms leading to immune system misfires. The result? Over reaction - allergies and asthma rather than a normally developed, properly functioning immune system.

Don’t scramble to the scrap yard…
Though results were deemed “interesting,” physicians at the University of California-San Francisco explained more research into lifestyle choices is necessary. Until a causal relationship is identified, pediatric allergy doctors urge patients and their families not to ditch the dishwasher yet.


* Published at www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/289832.php 'Fewer allergies among children in dishwasher-free homes"

Are You Currently Battling with Skin Allergies?

Is your allergist in Scottsdale constantly helping you battle skin allergies? It may be because you are constantly exposing yourself to common skin allergens or irritants triggers.

No touching!
Contact dermatitis, skin allergies characterized by rashes or skin irritation resulting from allergens coming in contact with your skin, affect up to 3 percent of adults. Its triggers are often common – and sometimes surprising.

When it comes to skin allergies, are you your own worst enemy?

1. Perfumes.
   Not just Chanel No. 5, we’re talking shampoo, soap, detergents, dryer sheets, air fresheners, and more. Only products labeled “fragrance-free,”     not unscented, are immune.
2. Nickel.
   Found in items from jewelry, watchbands, and glasses, to the zippers and     buttons on your clothes, this common allergen can be worsened by sweat. To     avoid sensitivity, items must be coated.
3. Latex.
   Gloves, rubber bands, waistbands on pants, and more can contain latex,     resulting in reactions from itchy eyes and rashes to difficulty breathing and vomiting.
4. Dyes.
   To avoid contact dermatitis, a patch test is required prior to the     application of hair dye or henna tattoos containing para-phenylenediamine (PPD).
5. Clothing.
   Formaldehyde resins, used in clothing elastics and fabrics for     waterproofing, shrinkage, and wrinkle resistance, can cause burning eyes, skin rashes, and chest tightness. Cotton, polyester, nylon, and acrylic are typically more lightly treated.
6. Cosmetics.
   Preservatives such as formaldehyde, parabens, and thimerosal used in     cosmetics can cause skin irritation at the site of contact.
7. Creams and ointments.
   Neomycin, used in antibiotic and anesthetic (pain relief) creams, ear  drops, and eye drops, can irritate the skin. Not sure if that’s you? Try a patch test.
8. Sunscreen.Common sunscreen ingredients can cause allergic reactions, including PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid), oxybenzone, salicylates, benzophenones, and cyclohexanol. Reactions may be on contact for some, or     for others only following sun exposure.
9. Household products.
   Skin irritation is common after exposure to adhesives (superglue) and     organic solvents (charcoal lighter fluid, paint thinner, furniture stripper, and nail polish remover).
10. Poison ivy, oak, and sumac.
    Urushiol, a sticky substance found in poison ivy,     poison oak, and poison sumac, can cause redness, itchiness, hives, and     blisters – but only in susceptible individuals.

Give your allergist in Scottsdale a hand. Put these items on your list of usual suspects. Take them out of commission and reduce your skin allergy risk today!

Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD. Top 10 Skin Allergy Triggers.  Retrieved fromhttp://www.everydayhealth.com/allergy-photos/top-10-skin-allergy-triggers.aspx#01