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 …
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 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 …
Handling the Holidays with Allergies and Asthma
The holidays are here! This means people with allergies and asthma are going to be potentially exposed to multiple allergens and irritants at home and while travelling. In this month’s issue of Montana Parent magazine, I review some precautions to take to ensure a safe …
Sneezing can be hazardous to your health!
A sneeze is a protective reflex that propels air (and frequently mucus) at about 650 mph and may increase pressure to 176 mmHg. It can be like a time-bomb in your nose. Many people believe that a sneeze is just a nuisance. I beg to …
Hunters beware: allergy to deer, elk, bear, antelope and buffalo
It is that time of year again and the gun hunters are wearing blaze orange and bow hunters invisible in their camouflage. In search of the great horned beast, hunters will be exposed to triggers of asthma such as cold air, campfire smoke, other hunters …
Dance, choir, and band… meet asthma!
In this month’s issue of Montana Parent magazine, I write a column for parents whose children desire to participate in extracurricular activities. Participating in extracurricular activities in one of the best parts of school, yet, some thought needs to go into choosing the best activity …
Is there really a snot test?
I can confirm now that there is indeed a SNOT test. In fact, it is called the SNOT-22 test. This 22 item questionnaire, Sino-Nasal Outcome Test, is a validated, patient-reported measure of outcome. It is a predictor of improvement after FESS (functional endoscopic sinus surgery) …
Climate Change and Allergies
It is well known that periodic climate changes (called phenology) especially precipitation and temperature are important predictors of tree and grass pollen production. While there is much “science” and plenty of controversy over the issue of “global warming,” with climate changes come potential impacts relevant …