America's Allergist Blog

Secondhand smoke is a problem world-wide. In Colorado, we are fortunate to have so many smoking bans when it comes to smoking in public. However, the Southern states are lacking in public smoking bans. “According to a federal government report, there are no U.S. Southeast states with comprehensive smoke-free laws” (WebMD). From 2000 to 2010, 26 states including the District of Columbia added comprehensive smoke-free laws. Since 2010, only two more states have added these laws. “Almost 60% of the U.S. is covered by comprehensive smoke-free laws. Of the 23 states without comprehensive smoke-free laws, 14 of them protect some...

We’ve all been there – stuffy nose, runny nose, sinus pressure and pain, and watery, red, swollen eyes – the dreaded cold. People also experience these same symptoms with allergies. You may think the only way to look while sick is miserable, but there are a few ways to looking better while sick. For swollen, dark or red puffy eyes you can try cool compresses, ice packs, or ice cubes wrapped in towels or in bags to relieve swelling. Eye drops will help with redness (some prescription allergy eye drops may be available through your physician). You can also try...

Summer is here and so is vacation season! Allergies are very common during spring through fall across the country. This means that no matter where you travel to, you may run into problems with allergies and asthma. However, you don’t have to if you prepare yourself! Different altitudes, climates and air quality can affect your breathing if you have asthma. Some suffer more symptoms in dry climates and high altitudes due to the thin air. Others have a harder time breathing in thicker, more humid air. Allergies can also affect breathing in different geographical areas. You may be somewhere with...

Even though we are still experiencing spring snowstorms, allergies are in full bloom. The weather has spiked within the last few weeks, allowing trees to bloom. The most important thing to do if you think you have allergies is to get an allergy test. Once you know your allergens, you can create a symptom-free environment, and have proper medication and an action plan. For decreased allergens in your home be sure to do the following: Try to avoid using fans as they tend to move dust throughout the house Keep doors and windows closed if possible when the pollen count...

Asthma is a choric lung disease that causes inflammation in the airways. It can cause many symptoms, including coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness and more. Here are the facts about asthma: Emotions can trigger asthma. When someone gets anxious or angry, they breathe faster, which can set off an asthma attack. Inflammatory chemicals are produced with these. Crying, laughing, fear and stress can also be triggers for an attack. Children with asthma may change asthma stats, but it never goes away. According to studies, most children improve asthma by the time they start school. For some, it may...