Ménière’s disease and allergies. Is there a connection?
What is Ménière’s disease? This is a disorder of the inner ear resulting in severe dizziness (vertigo), ringing in the ears (tinnitus), hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness, plugging or congestion in the ear. It usually affects only one ear. In severe cases, it …
Holy Guacamole! I have avocado allergy!
The avocado (Persea americana) is native to Mexico and Central America. The avocado tree belongs to the family Lauraceae along with cinnamon, camphor and bay laurel. Sometimes avocados are called “alligator pears” based on their shape and rough texture of the skin. The edible avocado …
Asthma and Allergy: Not Do-it-Yourself Diseases!
Do it yourself! That was my idea when I decided to remove the wallpaper from my wife’s kitchen. It was a disaster! Or the time I decided to “re-build” a 1973 Jeep CJ-5. How hard could it be? I had a manual, the internet, …
Runny noses aren’t just for youngsters!
The elderly population (over 65 years old) is one of the fastest growing age groups in the U.S. With age comes, unique causes for rhinitis (stuffy, runny nose) compared to other age groups. Yes, there is overlap, but in the elderly, there are distinctive aspects …
Preventing food allergies in your baby!
In this month’s issue of Montana Parent magazine called the “Oh Baby!” issue, I address some common questions asked by new or expecting mothers. Question 1: Does eliminating certain foods from mother’s diet when she is pregnant or breastfeeding reduce or prevent food allergies in …
Allergy-Safe Weddings: How to tie the knot without getting in a bind.
Preparing for that perfect day can be challenging. Preparing for that perfect day when you or your guests have allergies can be perplexing and taxing! Here are a few hints to keep yourself or your loved ones safe during the nuptials. If you are …
Do you experience flushing? Is it dry or wet flushing?
Flushing is a sensation of warmth frequently accompanied by fleeting skin redness usually over the face, neck, ears, chest, and limbs (arms and legs). This is due to vasodilation (dilated blood vessels) with increased blood flow to the skin. Wet flushing: This is when there …
Do you have dark circles under your eyes? Think allergies.
Do you or others notice those dark circles under your eyes? They can be very prominent and compel people to seek remedies including “make up.” Before spending your money on “make up” to cover up those dark circles, think about finding the underlying cause. Dark …
Seasonal influenza is spreading
In Montana, the influenza virus is making its appearance. The CDC reports “local” outbreaks, while our neighbor to the south (Wyoming) has reported widespread influenza outbreaks. In fact, influenza has become widespread in 33 states this week compared to just 4 states last week. …
Birthday parties and food allergies: a stressful combination!
Birthdays can be stressful for families dealing with their child’s food allergies. Now there is a new resource available to alleviate that anxiety. Parents can celebrate their child’s next birthday with a “Food Allergy Friends TM Birthday Club Card and Fun Pack. Through the generosity …