All articles tagged with #allergy
Lone-star ticks carrying alpha-gal syndrome have surged on Martha’s Vineyard, turning red meat, dairy and some medicines into potential triggers for residents. The island is adapting with dietary changes, new local services like the Tick Center, debates over tick control methods, and ongoing research, as experts warn this tick-borne allergy could spread beyond the island and become more common mainland-wide.
Allergists say several OTC meds—particularly second-generation antihistamines like Zyrtec, Allegra, and Claritin, plus nasal steroids like Flonase—provide strong relief for runny noses, watery eyes, and sneezing, and can be as effective as prescription options. They caution that the best choice depends on symptoms and health conditions, including kids (Claritin Children’s Chewables). Start with a consult with a doctor or pharmacist to tailor your plan, and be aware that pollen counts are higher and springs are starting earlier due to climate change, so consider starting treatment earlier in the season.
Novartis will acquire Excellergy for up to USD 2 billion in upfront and milestone payments to bolster its immunology portfolio with Exl-111, a Phase 1, half-life–extended anti-IgE antibody designed to dissociate receptor-bound IgE and drive faster, deeper IgE signaling suppression. If approved, Exl-111 could improve symptom control and dosing convenience across IgE‑driven diseases such as food allergy, chronic urticaria, inducible urticaria and asthma; closing is targeted for H2 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.
Climate change is extending pollen seasons, making allergy symptoms worse for millions. Experts suggest tracking local pollen counts, staying indoors with windows closed, wearing long sleeves, and showering and changing clothes after outdoor activity to reduce exposure. Saline eye/nose rinses and masks can help, though masks won’t address eye symptoms. For relief, OTC options like nasal sprays and antihistamines are useful, and seeing an allergist is advised if sleep or concentration is affected. Debunked myths include using local honey for allergy relief. The season’s length and severity have grown, with notable allergy capitals this year including Boise, San Diego, Tulsa, Provo, and Rochester.
With climate change lengthening and intensifying pollen seasons, experts say the best strategy is to time allergy meds: take antihistamines at night to blunt the morning surge of congestion, sneezing and itchy eyes; newer antihistamines cause less daytime drowsiness, while nasal sprays like Flonase work best with consistent daily use. If your symptoms peak in the evening, adjust timing accordingly. Start medications early and pair them with home steps (close windows, wipe down pets, check pollen counts) to reduce exposure.
Outdoor pollen can sneak into homes on shoes, clothing, hair, pet fur, and via HVAC or open windows. Experts advise a proactive routine: damp-dust with microfiber, vacuum with a HEPA filter, wash bedding and curtains weekly, wipe window treatments and baseboards, and declutter. Also seal entry points, keep doors/windows closed on high pollen days, use doormats and have people change clothes and shoes at the door, groom pets outdoors, purify the air with HEPA filters, maintain HVAC filtration, and avoid synthetic fragrances that can irritate airways.
A Nature study shows that environmentally rich exposures generate cross-reactive adaptive immune memory in mice, dampening allergic sensitization and anaphylaxis to related antigens. Protection can arise from type I memory or tolerogenic imprinting, is strongly influenced by timing (notably a perinatal window), and extends across diverse antigen spaces, including complex legume exposures—offering a mechanistic link between environment and the rise of allergic disease.
Cedar fever, caused by mountain cedar pollen, can cause severe allergy symptoms similar to cold or flu. Prevention includes avoiding pollen exposure, especially in the afternoons, and using home remedies like nasal rinses and filters. For severe symptoms, early use of nasal steroids is recommended to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms effectively.
A young man in Jerusalem experienced a severe allergic reaction after eating a dairy-containing doughnut during Hanukkah. Passersby called emergency services, and United Hatzalah medics quickly administered adrenaline and other treatments, stabilizing his condition before hospital transfer. The incident highlights the dangers of hidden allergens and the importance of rapid response.
Research links thunderstorms to increased asthma attacks, with data showing a significant rise in ER visits during storm days, highlighting the need for asthma patients to take extra precautions during stormy weather.
A man discovered he was allergic to tomatillo and onion, common ingredients in salsa verde, after years of believing he was just sensitive to spicy foods, when in fact his lips swelled due to an allergic reaction during a family BBQ.
Scientists have discovered that using safe, less intense UV light can quickly inactivate airborne allergy proteins, offering a promising new method to reduce allergens in indoor environments and potentially save lives, especially for allergy sufferers and asthma patients.
On Martha's Vineyard, a surge in Lone Star ticks has led to a significant increase in alpha-gal syndrome, an allergy to mammal meat and dairy, with positive allergy tests rising from 32 in 2021 to over 500 in 2024, prompting changes in public health awareness and restaurant menus.
Most adults are allergic to poison ivy and its relatives, which produce urushiol that causes itchy rashes. The article explains the risks and provides guidance on what to do if you come into contact with the plant, emphasizing the importance of prompt treatment to minimize discomfort and prevent complications.
Most adults are allergic to poison ivy and its relatives, which produce urushiol that causes itchy rashes. The article discusses how to prevent or minimize the rash after contact, highlighting the prevalence of allergic reactions and the potential severity of the skin response.