5 Signs that you are suffering from allergies

Even for the chronic sufferer, an allergic reaction - to pollen, particular allergy causing foods or other irritants - is not always immediately evident. The symptoms can be confused with everything from a bug bite to a common head cold or sinusitis. Still, a preponderance of symptoms should give one a clear idea of what is happening. Here is a quick rundown on what to look for to determine if you are suffering from allergies:

Odd taste in mouth – The human body is highly attuned to its wants and needs. As much as it likes to tell you what and when to eat, it will also quickly inform you if an unwanted substance is introduced. If you encounter an unwanted taste in your mouth, consider the source.

Scratchy throat – This symptom is most pronounced if a food allergen is ingested – with results often within just a few seconds! – but dermal contact with a plant or the inhalation of another allergen can also produce this effect.

Nasal congestion / Watery eyes – Once the allergen is introduced to the body in whatever way, the body's natural defenses try to rid itself of them. Mucus and tears are the first symptoms but nausea and diarrhea can follow within a couple of hours.

Skin rash – More commonly known as “hives,” this skin rash will develop within an hour or two of being exposed to the allergen. Many people think that this condition is only provoked by touching poison ivy or some other irritant. To the contrary, any allergen – whether touched or not – can cause hives.

Obstructed breathing – This symptom manifests itself in a number of ways – most notably with the swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat. Usually the most troubling of allergic reactions, this symptom can even be life threatening.

For further information on recognizing and dealing with an allergic reaction, please contact us at Adult & Pediatric Allergy Associates. We can be found online at AllergyArizona.net or reached directly at 602-242-4592.

Top Five Food Allergies

While everyone needs food to live, not everyone can eat every food. This fact is never more evident than when a person inadvertently eats a food that provokes an allergic reaction. Nausea, hives, itchy eyes and shortness of breath can ensue if the allergic reaction is not treated in the proper manner by an specialty allergy doctor.

Known in medical circles as “anaphylactic shock,” allergic reactions to food are not just irritating but can even lead to death in certain circumstances. Here is a quick rundown on the five foods most commonly associated with this disability:

Peanut Allergy – Probably the most commonly known food allergy because of the attention it has drawn from schools and airlines, peanuts are a significant threat to the unaware. Peanuts are included in all sorts of foods as a filler and care should be taken to read food labels.

Shrimp – This allergy is usually ascribed to the iodine that builds up in various shellfish. Whatever the root reason, a shrimp allergy provokes an almost immediate and violent reaction from someone who inadvertently exposes themselves.

Milk – “Got milk?” Is a popular marketing slogan but it is more than an annoyance to those who are better off ignoring this oft praised but sometimes deadly liquid. Humans usually react most violently to cow's milk but others – goat, sheep and buffalo – can have equally dire effects.

Wheat – The gluten in wheat can cause bouts of sneezing, headaches and skin rashes. This allergy is more of a nuisance than a real danger. Still, it should be dealt with as soon as possible.

Eggs – Most common in infants, an egg allergy usually manifests itself with vomiting. By adolescence, this allergy will usually be dissipated.

For more information on the best way to deal with an allergic reaction to food or any other irritant, or prevent food allergies in children, please contact us at allergyarizona.net, or call us directly at 602-242-4592. 

Allergy Testing & Holistic and Medicinal Treatment

●       Pediatric allergies and pediatric asthma

●       Immunodeficiency

●       Food Allergies

●       Skin Allergies also known as allergic contact dermatitis (contact eczema)

●       Nasal Allergies also known as Allergic rhinitis (seasonal and perennial)

●       Asthmatic bronchitis

●       Occupational Asthma

●       Insect hypersensitivity

Those who suffer from allergies  know the discomfort and anxiety that such a condition brings. While most allergic attacks can be prevented and easily managed, thousands of Arizona still suffer from allergies on a regular basis. The presence of allergens in our desert environment and foods, plus the lack of sufficient awareness about allergies play a major role in the increasing number of allergic attacks.

Don’t let allergies take over your life or your children's!

Typical Allergy Symptoms Seen in Phoenix:

●       Adverse reactions to insect stings, drugs, and food

●       Eye tearing, itching or red eyes

●       Coughing, wheezing and difficulties with breathing

●       Problems in the immune system that lead to frequent infections

●       Sinus infections

●       Itchy skin or red bumps on the skin, hives

●       Anaphylactic shock

●       Angioedema

With over 20 years of experience, you are sure to receive special medical attention from our top rated Phoenix allergists and asthma specialists who have deep understandings of allergies and asthma, and their underlying causes.

We have 5 clinics valleywide which offer treatment plans for children and adults of all ages that are being affected by symptoms of allergy or asthma.  Please contact us today at 602-242-4592 so that we can help you STOP the persistent allergic reactions and other immunologic problems!

What is Allergy Immunology

Immunology is a very broad branch of biological science. It is commonly defined as the study of the immune system. In medicine, an immunologist is a specialist who uses his knowledge to evaluate, diagnose and manage patients with immunological disorders like asthma, food allergies, sinusitis, and more. In Phoenix, immunologists is commonly referred to as  allergists.

Specially Licensure:

An allergy immunologist such as Dr. Habib-Khazen and Dr Alasaly had to go through years of education and training in order to learn how to treat and manage allergies and asthma.

Our doctors must complete a medical degree, and then, train as a physician in either pediatrics or internal medicine. Once training has been completed, the physician must pass either the American Board of Internal Medicine or the American Board of Pediatrics.

To become an immunologist, a physician must undergo an additional two years of study (fellowship) focusing on immunology, and  pass the American Board of Allergy and Immunology’s certifying exam.

An allergist/immunologist's education and training doesn't stop there. Because immunology is applied to several other scientific disciplines, new discoveries in the field are continually being made. To remain a certified immunologist in Phoenix, continued medical education is  necessary in order to keep up with the latest news and remain competent in the field.

The Role of the Allergy/Immunologist:

Unlike other types of diseases, allergic disease isn’t a condition that can “go away” easily. Some people dismiss allergies and regard them as a mere nuisance. Patients who suffer from allergies know that this condition can  be debilitating and  keep them from their daily routines.

An effective Phoenix immunologist diagnoses the condition and provides a management plan to help the patient manage his allergy or asthma better, reducing the number of times the patient misses school or work because he/she has to stay at home to rest. The immunologist uses different allergy tests to determine what a patient is allergic to and what triggers allergic reactions. These tests include allergy skin testing, pulmonary function testing, penicillin testing, food testing, chemical and food patch testing, and venom and stinging insect testing.

Consult our Allergy Asthma Clinics which are renowned for the quality of care:

When in need of comprehensive treatment options, you can rely on our dedicated team of doctors, nurses, and staff to work with you in helping you better manage your asthmatic allergy or respiratory/sinus concerns. By working with our  certified and experienced team at our Phoenix clinic or another location, you will find out exactly the cause of your condition, what triggers your asthma or allergic reaction, and how you can effectively manage it.

Find out why 1000s of patients have chosen us to be their Phoenix immunologists!  Please call NOW to schedule appointment at 602-242-4592! 

Children's Food Allergies Are On the Rise - Is Your Child Protected?

On the rise at your local allergy and asthma clinic: food allergies in children, to the tune of an increase around 50 percent between 1997 and 2011. That’s one in every 13 children, over 38 percent of which have a history of severe allergic reactions. Is your child effected by this potentially deadly issue?  

Food allergy suspects: Repeat offenders
The most common food allergens seen in an allergy and asthma clinic are allergies to milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish and shellfish. These eight foods account for 90 percent of all reactions. Even trace amounts can cause an allergic response. With over 30 percent of children with food allergies having sensitivities to multiple items, that’s a huge possibility of allergic reaction.

Keep kids safe - learn the signs of food allergies!
Within minutes to up to two hours after eating, food allergy reactions may be mild to severe, including…

• Hives or itchy skin rashes.
• Swelling of the lips and face.
• Swollen, itchy, watery eyes.
• Swelling of the mouth or throat.
• Runny nose.
• Repetitive cough.
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing.
• Stomach cramps, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Handling a severe food allergy reaction in your child
Every 3 minutes, someone is seen in an emergency room for a food allergy. To keep your child from becoming a statistic, it pays to be proactive.

• Identify food allergies with the help of your local allergy and asthma clinic.
• Consider medical identification jewelry.
• Don’t take chances with problem foods. Reactions can worsen, and allergy medications are not foolproof.
• When eating away from home, always read labels and ask questions to ensure food safety.
• If you are at risk of severe food allergy reactions or anaphylaxis, keep doses of epinephrine (adrenaline) on you at all times for administration via auto-injector.
• Make sure prescriptions are up-to-date.
• Ensure your child, family members, and those who see your child on a regular basis (teachers, coaches, etc.) are aware of your child’s food allergy, as well as how and when to administer emergency medication.
• If your child experiences a severe allergic response, don’t wait, treat symptoms immediately!
• ALWAYS call 9-1-1 immediately following an anaphylactic reaction, even if medication appears to have resolved symptoms.

Food allergies don’t have to take over your life. Avoid anaphylaxis and effectively manage food allergies with the help of your local allergy and asthma clinic today!


“Facts and Statistics.” Retrieved July 21, 2015, from http://www.foodallergy.org/facts-and-stats.
“Allergy Statistics.” Retrieved July 21, 2015, from http://www.aaaai.org/about-the-aaaai/newsroom/allergy-statistics.aspx
“Food Allergy Training Guide for Hospital and Food Service Staff.” Retrieved July 21, 2015, from http://www.foodallergy.org/document.doc?id=149
“About Anaphylaxis.” Retrieved July 21, 2015, from http://www.foodallergy.org/anaphylaxis
“FAACT Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Connection Team Brochure.” Retrieved July 21, 2015, from http://www.foodallergyawareness.org/media/faactbrochure/FAACT%20Brochure.pdf

Food Allergies in Children

On the rise at your local Arizona allergy and asthma clinics food allergies in children, to the tune of an increase around 50 percent between 1997 and 2011. That’s one in every 13 children, over 38 percent of which have a history of severe allergic reactions. Is your child effected by this potentially deadly issue?  

Food allergy suspects: Repeat offenders
The most common food allergens seen in an allergy and asthma clinic are allergies to milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish and shellfish. These eight foods account for 90 percent of all reactions. Even trace amounts can cause an allergic response. With over 30 percent of children with food allergies having sensitivities to multiple items, that’s a huge possibility of allergic reaction.

Keep kids safe - learn the signs of food allergies!
Within minutes to up to two hours after eating, food allergy reactions may be mild to severe, including…

• Hives or itchy skin rashes.
• Swelling of the lips and face.
• Swollen, itchy, watery eyes.
• Swelling of the mouth or throat.
• Runny nose.
• Repetitive cough.
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing.
• Stomach cramps, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Handling a severe food allergy reaction in your child
Every 3 minutes, someone is seen in an emergency room for a food allergy. To keep your child from becoming a statistic, it pays to be proactive.

• Identify food allergies with the help of your local allergy and asthma clinic.
• Consider medical identification jewelry.
• Don’t take chances with problem foods. Reactions can worsen, and allergy medications are not foolproof.
• When eating away from home, always read labels and ask questions to ensure food safety.
• If you are at risk of severe food allergy reactions or anaphylaxis, keep doses of epinephrine (adrenaline) on you at all times for administration via auto-injector.
• Make sure prescriptions are up-to-date.
• Ensure your child, family members, and those who see your child on a regular basis (teachers, coaches, etc.) are aware of your child’s food allergy, as well as how and when to administer emergency medication.
• If your child experiences a severe allergic response, don’t wait, treat symptoms immediately!
• ALWAYS call 9-1-1 immediately following an anaphylactic reaction, even if medication appears to have resolved symptoms.

Food allergies don’t have to take over your life. Avoid anaphylaxis and effectively manage food allergies with the help of your local allergy and asthma clinic today!

“Facts and Statistics.” Retrieved July 21, 2015, from http://www.foodallergy.org/facts-and-stats.
“Allergy Statistics.” Retrieved July 21, 2015, from http://www.aaaai.org/about-the-aaaai/newsroom/allergy-statistics.aspx
“Food Allergy Training Guide for Hospital and Food Service Staff.” Retrieved July 21, 2015, from http://www.foodallergy.org/document.doc?id=149
“About Anaphylaxis.” Retrieved July 21, 2015, from http://www.foodallergy.org/anaphylaxis
“FAACT Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Connection Team Brochure.” Retrieved July 21, 2015, from http://www.foodallergyawareness.org/media/faactbrochure/FAACT%20Brochure.pdf

Phoenix Families Advice - Does my child have a peanut allergy?

Peanuts are one of the most common allergy-causing foods, found in a diverse range of products including some baked goods, candy, chili and many others foods that by outside appearances seem peanut-free. Because peanuts are so common and can cause such severe reactions many parents in the Phoenix area worry about whether their child might have an allergy.

If you are a parent and seriously concerned your child may have a peanut allergy your first port of call should be professional allergists, rather than relying on an internet or self-diagnosis. A professional will take a detailed history and conduct a safe and accurate test to determine if your child has an allergic reaction when exposed to peanuts.

It is important to get a diagnosis for two reasons – firstly should you receive a diagnosis they will provide all the support and advice you need to help your child eat safely at home and outside the home. Just as importantly if your child is tested by professional allergists and they discover he or she does not have an allergy they can then safely eat peanuts. This is important because avoiding potential allergens can actually make children more sensitive – if a child is unnecessarily stopped from eating peanuts this may actually contribute to their developing an allergy!

If you are concerned then the following list of signs should help you decide whether you need to visit the allergists:

• Near Immediate Reaction - If your child is allergic to peanuts they should experience a near-immediate reaction when exposed. This could be a combination of a number of symptoms including swelling of the face or throat, quick-spreading rashes, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting or feeling weak.
• Often Runs in Families - Family members with allergies make it more likely your child will have allergies themselves.
• Happens Every Time - An allergic reaction is reliable and repeatable – the symptoms should appear any time a peanut is eaten – they will not happen just some of the time.

If you are concerned contact an allergyspecialist in Phoenix and get your child checked at the earliest possible opportunity. Not only will you receive expert advice but you’ll also have the peace of mind of knowing for certain, regardless of the outcome.