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• FLU, ASTHMA AND ALLERGIES

  20Oct
  Categories: Uncategorized Comments: 0

  The novel H1N1 flu virus (sometimes called “swine flu”) is creating headlines around the world. With each passing day, medical experts and the public are learning more about this virus – how it behaves and how to treat it.

  As with the regular, seasonal flu, people with allergies and asthma should take prevention measures to avoid getting sick.

  ASTHMA’S AFFECT

  A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that the majority of pediatric deaths from H1N1 occurred in children with an underlying medical condition–in some cases asthma.

  Children and adults with respiratory conditions such as asthma are more likely to experience serious health problems if they contract the flu. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) urges all patients with asthma to get the H1N1 vaccine in addition to the regular seasonal flu vaccine.

  IS IT AN ALLERGY OR IS IT THE FLU?

  Novel H1N1 and the seasonal flu are not the same, but have similar symptoms. Some allergy symptoms may also be confused for flu symptoms. For parents of children with asthma or allergies, telling the difference between allergic disease symptoms and the seasonal flu or H1N1 may be a bit difficult.

  Itchy eyes, a scratchy nose or sneezing are symptoms of allergies, but if your child suffers from asthma and develops a fever or nausea and vomiting, consult your physician.”

  Here’s how to tell if you are suffering from allergies or something more severe

   

  Allergy Symptoms

  Runny Nose

  Sneezing

  Stuffiness

  Itchy, watery eyes

  Itchiness in the nose, mouth or throat

   

  Flu Symptoms

  Runny Nose

  Coughing

  Sore throat

  Tiredness

  Fever

  Nausea or vomiting

  Diarrhea

  Lack of appetite

   

  FOOD ALLERGIES AND VACCINES

  Vaccinations for both the seasonal flu and H1N1 are among the best prevention tools available to prevent complications from the flu. But what if you are allergic to a substance in the vaccines?

  “Individuals with egg allergy may be at risk for an allergic reaction to H1N1 and seasonal influenza vaccines due to the egg content in the vaccine preparations,” reports Dr. Casale. “Before getting vaccinated, review the information posted on www.aaaai.org and consult with your health care provider. In most cases, vaccination can be tolerated if done according to these recommendations.”

  IF YOU DO GET SICK

  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people with flu-like symptoms stay home for at least 24 hours after they are free of fever.

  If you experience severe symptoms, including difficulty breathing, chest pain/pressure, dizziness or persistent vomiting, seek emergency medical care.

  KEEP INFORMED

  The AAAAI offers a comprehensive library of resources on the novel H1N1 virus – especially as related to allergic diseases – including treatment recommendations, vaccine news, case studies and information for patients. Subscribe to the RSS feed to be notified of the latest updates as they happen.

  AVOID CONTRACTING OR SPREADING THE FLU

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water

  • Hand sanitizers may also be effective

  • Use a tissue to cover your coughs and sneezes

  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth

  • Stay home if you feel ill

  • When possible, avoid close contact with sick people

  • Obey school/business closures and other public health advisories

• Off to college with allergies and asthma

  01Oct
  Categories: Uncategorized Comments: 0

  For many students, starting college marks the beginning of adulthood and it may be the first time they’ll be living independently. This exciting (and sometimes scary) transition poses special challenges for those with allergies and asthma, and it often raises concerns for parents.

  A new environment exposes students to different allergy and asthma triggers. The challenges of college life may add additional stress that can aggravate asthma. And, for those with food allergies, dining on campus can seem like a minefield.

  These may seem like daunting hurdles to overcome. But with a little planning, teens can successfully transition from high school to college, and at the same time take a more active role in managing their health.

  Steps to take
  If they aren’t already doing so, now is the time for teens begin to take responsibility for managing their conditions. Here are some timely tips for the college-bound:

  • When you arrive on campus, meet with staff (especially food service personnel and residence hall advisors) to develop a plan to control your allergies and asthma.
  • Don’t take chances. Know what triggers your allergic disease and stay away from these allergens. Be aware of signs that you need to seek medical attention.
  • Keep prescriptions filled and up-to-date. Always have your medications on hand, including your autoinjectable epinephrine and quick-relief inhaler.
  • Consider talking to your friends and roommates about your allergies and asthma. Letting those close to you know about your health, and the signs of a medical emergency, can help you stay safe.
  • If you are going away to college, it is important to find an allergist in the area you can contact if you need medical attention while at school. To locate an allergist near your campus, visit http://www.aaaai.org/physref/.

  Taking control of your health and being prepared for emergencies will help you manage your asthma and allergies and give your parents some peace-of-mind.

  DID YOU KNOW?

  • There are approximately 17.5 million full- and part-time college students in the United States.
  • About 9% of college students report having been diagnosed with asthma, according to the American College Health Association (ACHA).
  • Twenty-two percent of college students have allergies, according to the ACHA.
  • A recent study of college students with food allergies found that only 3.5% had informed campus dining services of their allergies.

  To the Point

  Studies have shown that young people are more likely than others to take risks with their health. For example, one study found that many young people with food allergies have eaten a food even though they know that it contains an allergen. For more information on allergies and asthma, please visit the Patients & Consumers Center of the AAAAI Web site, www.aaaai.org.