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What Are Common Food Allergies and How Are They Treated?
Food allergies are very common. About 32 million people in the U.S. have food allergies, including 10.8% of all adults and 7.6% of children. Food Allergy Symptoms Symptoms of food allergies can vary from mild to severe. They usually develop quickly within minutes to two hours of consuming the allergen. Symptoms may include: Abdominal pain…
Is There a Link Between Allergies & Vertigo?
If you have allergies, you’re familiar with the common symptoms: itchy, watery eyes, congestion, runny nose, sneezing and scratchy throat. But did you know that your allergies can lead to dizziness and vertigo too? We review how allergies cause these symptoms and how you can find relief below. What Causes Allergies? Your immune system works…
These Plants May Be Affecting Your Allergies
If you have hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, you may experience symptoms such as itchy eyes, congestion, runny nose and sneezing when you’re outdoors. What you’re reacting to is most likely pollen from various plants. Below we review which plants found in South Carolina may be causing your allergy symptoms. Ragweed While there’s…
Dominique DeFrancesco AuD, CCC-A
Dr. DeFrancesco earned her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Adelphi University and her Doctorate of Audiology from the University of Massachusetts/Amherst. Dr. DeFrancesco has her certificate of clinical competency in audiology and is a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
What Are Common Causes of Summer Allergies?
If you feel that your allergies have worsened over time, you’re not imagining it. According to one study, “The pollen season might become longer thereby extending the period in which patients suffer from allergy symptoms. This extension of the pollen season could be due to a prolonged flowering period of certain species, e.g. grasses, or…
Gina Sanitato, MSPAS, PA-C
Gina earned her Bachelor of Science from Furman University and her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the Medical University of South Carolina, where she graduated with honors. She is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and is nationally certified. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outside, trying new…
How to Help Your Child Navigate Food Allergies at School
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) “Food allergies are a growing food safety and public health concern that affect an estimated 8% of children in the United States. That’s 1 in 13 children, or about 2 students per classroom.” If your child is one of them, you are likely nervous about…
Can Honey Really Help Seasonal Allergies?
You may have heard the old wives’ tale that raw honey can be used to treat allergies. The idea is that, if you eat honey made in your local area, it will contain the pollen you’re reactive to and help you build up a tolerance to it. But is this true? We review the facts…
Can Allergen Immunotherapy Prevent Pediatric Asthma?
Asthma is a disease that affects your lungs, causing episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and coughing. While asthma can be controlled by taking medications and avoiding triggers, a recent study has found that it may also be prevented by undergoing allergy immunotherapy. What Is Allergy Immunotherapy? Allergy immunotherapy is a long-term approach to treating…
Understanding Year-Round Allergies
Most people think of allergy season as occurring during just during spring and summer months. However, for many, allergy season is year-round. When and how long you experience allergy symptoms depends on what you’re allergic to and how often you’re exposed. Below we review everything you need to know about year-round allergies. What Is Allergic…
