Category: Allergy

10 Uncommon Allergies

We all know about seasonal allergies, nut allergies, pet allergies, and other prevalent allergy types. However, there are countless uncommon allergies that you may never have thought about, including:

1. Coconut

Though rare, coconut allergy is possible. While coconut falls under the FDA’s classification of a tree nut for labeling purposes, it’s not actually a tree nut. So, most people with tree nut allergies can eat coconut without experiencing allergy symptoms. However, people with a coconut allergy may experience itchiness in the mouth and, in very rare cases, anaphylaxis. A coconut allergy may also cause a skin reaction with the use of soaps, lotions, and personal care products that contain coconut.   Continue reading “10 Uncommon Allergies” →

Peanuts are among the most common food allergies today. In fact, approximately 3 million Americans have an allergy to peanuts and/or tree nuts. 

If you or your child has peanut allergies, there are some important facts that you need to know. Here, we’ll discuss the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment for peanut allergies to help keep you and your loved ones healthy. Continue reading “Everything You Need to Know About Peanut Allergies” →

Many people confuse food allergies for food intolerances, and vice versa. Although these conditions both involve a physical reaction to certain foods, each is distinct and has its own set of symptoms. Understanding the difference between a food allergy and an intolerance can help you find the care that you need for either condition. 

What is a Food Allergy?

A food allergy occurs when the body’s immune system wrongly identifies a food as an invasive threat. As a result, the immune system tries to fight the food, leading to allergy symptoms. Continue reading “Food Allergy vs. Food Intolerance: What’s the Difference?” →

While mild hay fever can often be treated with at-home methods or over-the-counter allergy medications, many people suffer from allergies that require professional medical care. If you’re struggling from allergy symptoms that won’t go away on their own or with at-home care, it may be time to contact an allergy specialist. 

What is an Allergy Specialist?

An allergy specialist is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of allergic conditions, including allergies and asthma. It takes many years of training to become a board-certified allergist like Dr. Jaime Kratz at Kratz Allergy & Asthma. Board-certified allergists are the most qualified physicians to treat patients suffering from allergic diseases and pinpoint allergy triggers.  Continue reading “When Is it Time to See an Allergy Specialist?” →

Health Conditions That Mimic Asthma Symptoms

Experiencing asthma symptoms doesn’t guarantee an asthma diagnosis. There are numerous health conditions that can mimic asthma by causing trouble breathing, coughing, and wheezing. 

Before assuming that you have asthma, visit a specialist like Dr. Jaime Kratz for an evaluation. Dr. Kratz can determine whether you’re suffering from asthma or a different health condition and ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment.  Continue reading “Health Conditions That Mimic Asthma Symptoms” →

Chronic rhinitis is the term used to describe persistent inflammation in the nose’s inner lining. Rhinitis may be considered chronic if it lasts longer than four consecutive weeks, although it may last for months or even years in some individuals. This condition can be very uncomfortable, but maybe successfully treated with a proper diagnosis. 

What Causes Chronic Rhinitis?

In most cases, it can be caused by allergies. There are several allergens that can trigger rhinitis, such as pollen, mold, dust mites, and pet dander. It can also occur when patients have many different allergy triggers, making them difficult to avoid. However, many treatments are available for allergic rhinitis, including allergy shots.  Continue reading “What is Chronic Rhinitis?” →

Mainly in children, studies have shown that allergy symptoms are linked to a higher risk of ADHD. Understanding this connection and ensuring that children receive the allergy treatment that they need can help preserve their long-term wellbeing. 

What is ADHD?

ADHD stands for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. This condition affects many adults, but is one of the most prevalent mental disorders among children. The main symptoms include hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Continue reading “The Link Between Allergies and ADHD” →

Common Allergens in Florida During the Winter

Many people associate allergies with springtime, but there are many common allergens that strike in Florida during the winter. To avoid getting blindsided by allergies during the coldest months of the year, keep reading to learn about the most common winter allergens in the Sunshine State. 

Dust

Since people generally spend more time inside during the winter, indoor allergens get their time to shine. Dust is one of the most prevalent indoor allergens. When your heater turns on for the season, it often kicks up dust that’s been sitting in your HVAC system all summer long. As a result, dust can circulate throughout your home and cause allergy symptoms. 

Continue reading “Common Allergens in Florida During the Winter” →

Food allergies are highly common among both adults and children. While virtually any food can trigger an allergic reaction, certain foods more commonly trigger allergies than others. In fact, according to Food Allergy Research and Education, or FARE, eight foods make up 90% of all food allergies. 

What is a Food Allergy?

A food allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies some of the proteins in food as a threat. In response, the immune system attacks the protein by releasing chemicals such as histamine. This causes inflammation in the body and can lead to various symptoms of an allergic reaction, including trouble breathing, low blood pressure, diarrhea, hives, vomiting, rash, and swelling of the face, tongue, or mouth. Severe food allergies may even cause anaphylaxis.   Continue reading “Common Food Allergies” →

Are you experiencing red, itchy, and watery eyes? If so, you may be suffering from allergic conjunctivitis. This common form of allergies occurs when the eyes are exposed to a certain substance, or allergen, that triggers an immune reaction. 

This generally isn’t serious, but it can be very uncomfortable. Let’s learn more about this condition, how it’s treated, and what can be done to prevent it. 

Defining Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis happens when the eyes come into contact with a substance that the immune system perceives as a threat. In response to the perceived threat, the immune system releases histamine and other substances through a type of white blood cells called mast cells. This process causes the blood vessels in the eyes to dilate, which aggravates nerve endings and triggers increased tear secretion, leading to various symptoms, including: Continue reading “What is Allergic Conjunctivitis?” →