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You Can't See the Forest for the Trees
Posted - 4/7/2010 at 5:19PM by David Friedman
I might as well say you can't see the plains for the grass, or you can't see the fields and roadsides for the weeds!! As well as, you can't see the kennel for the puppies and kitties. That's because looking at the big picture is important for understanding allergies. When somebody's allergies fla...
To Boost or Not to Boost? That is the Immune System Question
Posted - 1/3/2010 at 8:46AM by David Friedman
At this time of year with health consciousness at the forefront, I find voluminous products promising to boost or give your immune system a shot. However, as an allergist/immunologist, I have to caution one against trying to do this. It would seem logical to "strengthen your immune system" from a c...
Mr Sandman, Bring me Relief! Bung Bung Bung
Posted - 2/5/2010 at 10:23AM by David Friedman
Patients ask me all the time why their allergies and asthma get worse during the evening and sleeping hours. Many times, we believe that it is something right there in the bedroom that causes the allergies to go nightmarish!! One's nose will start to congest and eyes will subsequently itch and tear...
Sometimes you feel like a NUT (peanut), Sometimes you don't!!
Posted - 2/14/2010 at 7:45PM by David Friedman
The diagnosis of peanut and tree nut allergy is enough to drive some parents and patients nutty with worry. It seems everywhere you turn, someone has a peanut or tree nut allergy. I wouldn't be surprised, if you stop seeing Reese's and Snickers at the movie theatres. Some public places have started to...
Snot Wars by George Mucus
Posted - 3/7/2010 at 10:58PM by David Friedman
Thank you, Sherilyn Forrester, for the entertaining title!! When it rains in the desert, it seems to pour!! It is the same with the nose when allergies Strike Back!! Except it is a little more robust than the Empire. Why does the nose seem to constantly drain or run when allergies attack? It is what...
You better not itch, better not scratch, better not rash I'm telling you why!!
Posted - 12/20/2009 at 9:32PM by David Friedman
Atopic Dermatitis (commonly known as eczema) is a very common childhood rash that follows typical patterns. It is extremely pruritic or "itchy" and initially occurs in extensor (elbows, knees, dorsum of feet) and the face. It can begin at any age but around 6 months old is very common. It typica...
Look What the Cat Dragged In?
Posted - 12/6/2009 at 5:52PM by David Friedman
Allergens. Allergens. Allergens. That is the answer an allergist will give you. Although an infectious disease doc would talk about toxoplasmosis and cat scratch fever!! Our furred pets are loved family members who can be a considerable source of allergen exposure, symptoms, and misery. Ther...
Honey, I shrunk my allergies!!
Posted - 11/30/2009 at 8:25PM by David Friedman
With many chronic symptoms and diseases, there are several anecdotal remedies that simply aren't evidenced-based, proven, or vaild. Since allergic disease is one of the most prevelent chronic diseases in the United States, there are many myths on how to alleviate symptoms. One that patients hear ...
Asthma and the Holiday season
Posted - 11/30/2009 at 2:05PM by David Friedman
It is very clear that asthma exacerbations increase during the fall and winter seasons. The primary culprits are weather changes, viruses, mold spores, and weed pollen. How does one stay well for these cooler months? The answer depends upon the severity of the underlying illness and the responsi...