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How to Manage Fall and Winter Allergies

As we enter the Winter season, while many people see an improvement in their allergy symptoms because of the lack of pollen in the air, many other individuals experience a worsening of their allergy symptoms due to the increase in the amount of perennial allergens that are present during this time of the year.  Specifically, people with sensitivities to dust mites, molds, pets, and cockroaches tend to do worse in the Fall and Winter months.  Despite the fact that all of these allergens are omnipresent in the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland metropolitan area, and are present year-long, during the colder months, individuals tend to “close up” their homes and workplaces more than in the Spring and Summer months.  During the Fall and Winter, people generally keep the windows shut, turn on the heat, and go outdoors less often.  These factors all play a role in increasing the exposure to more quantities of dust mite, mold, pet dander, and cockroach allergens. Hence, individuals may be bothered more in the Fall and Winter.

It is noteworthy to mention that all of the above allergens are found only indoors, except molds and occasionally pets.  When the leaves fall from the trees in the Fall and get wet, molds will grow on the decaying leaves.  In the Washington, DC metro area, the leaf mold is a major allergen that causes a great deal of suffering for many allergy patients.  When the leaves are disturbed by either raking them, rainfall, or via the wind, the mold spores are more likely to become airborne, thus increasing the likelihood of them causing allergy symptoms in individuals with mold sensitivities.  It is therefore recommended that a person with mold allergies should avoid exposure to leaves, particularly if they are or have been wet.  They should also keep the humidity of their homes below 35%, if possible as there is direct correlation with increased humidity and the amount of mold growth.  In the home, mold growth tends to be more abundant in basements, bathrooms, and kitchens due to the increased moisture found in these places.

The main culprits of dust allergy are the dust mites prevalent in the Washington, DC metropolitan area.  There are 2 very common species of dust mites in the Washington, DC, Northern Virgina, and Maryland metro area.  They are known as Dermatophagoides fariniae (i.e., American dust mite) and Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (i.e., European dust mite).  Both species are highly allergenic and tend to live indoors in places like carpeting, upholstered furniture, pillows, mattresses, box springs, and bedding.  It is technically the fecal particles and exoskeleton that are the allergenic components of the dust mites.  The dust mites are microscopic and look similar to a cockroach, however, they cannot be seen with the naked eye.  They are about 0.25 mm. in length.  They survive by eating dead skin that regularly sloughs off of humans each night.  The dust mites thrive in warm moist climates and when the humidity is high.  They do not survive if the temperature is over 130° F or when the altitude is greater than 1 mile (5,280 feet).  Dust mites are known to be a cause of allergic rhinitis and asthma in many individuals.  There are products that can be put on carpeting that act to kill dust mites, but these products have been shown not to very effective.  Encasing one’s pillows, mattresses, and box springs in allergy-proof encasings are a fairly effective way to minimize exposure to dust mites.

When the home is “closed up,” pet allergens from the dander and saliva tend to be worse.  Usually, however, pet allergy tends to be very similar for most individuals despite the time off the year.  Likewise cockroach allergy is common particularly in major cities such as Washington, DC.  Many homes, apartments, condos, restaurants, and public buildings in urban settings are infested with cockroaches, even though they may not be visible during the day to most people.  It is important to make sure that traces of food are not left on counters, floors, etc., as this attracts cockroaches.  There is a common strong association between cockroach allergy and childhood asthma in inner city populations.  Cockroaches are potent allergens allergy sufferers of all ages and cause both allergic rhinitis and asthma symptoms.

Other than avoidance, which is always preferable, there are numerous medications that can be used by allergists to treat dust mite, mold, pet, and cockroach allergies.  Allergy shots (i.e., allergy injections, allergy immunotherapy, allergy desensitization) are a very effective tool that board certified allergists use to treat individuals with these allergies, as well as pollen allergies.  They work in 80-85% of people and allergy injections have been used in the U.S. for over 100 years.  The average length of treatment is 3-5 years.

The board certified allergists at Black & Kletz Allergy have been diagnosing and treating allergies and asthma for more than 50 years in the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland metropolitan area.  We have convenient locations in Washington, DC, McLean, VA (Tysons Corner, VA), and Manassas, VA.  Each office has on-site parking.  The Washington, DC and McLean, VA offices are Metro accessible and there is a free shuttle that runs between our McLean, VA office and the Spring Hill metro station on the silver line.  Please call for an appointment if you would like a consultation with one of our allergists, or alternatively, you can click Request an Appointment and we will respond within 24 hours by the next business day.  Black & Kletz Allergy prides itself in providing quality allergy and asthma care to the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland metropolitan area community.

Aspirin Allergy and Its Relationship to Allergies and Asthma

Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease (AERD) is an acquired condition in which the sensitivity to aspirin and/or related drugs (e.g., nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAID’s) is associated with long term inflammation of the upper and lower airways.

How common is AERD?
Approximately 8% of the adults in the U.S. are asthmatics and 9% of those individuals have AERD. About 13% of U.S. adults have chronic nasal and/or sinus disease and 15% of those have AERD.

AERD is a clinical syndrome consisting of:
1. Growth of polyps inside the nose
2. Chronic sinus inflammation and/or recurrent sinus infections
3. Persistent asthma, which is often difficult to control
4. Allergic sensitization to aspirin and/or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID’s)

What causes AERD?
Although the exact cause remains unknown, a disorder in the metabolism or breakdown of a chemical called arachidonic acid is at the root of the condition. Aspirin is not the cause of the disorder, but in sensitive individuals, ingestion of aspirin will aggravate the underlying respiratory symptoms, probably by increasing the levels of inflammatory chemical mediators called leukotrienes. This process also leads to the accumulation of excessive numbers of eosinophils (i.e., “the allergy white blood cell”) in the respiratory tract.

Clinical Features:
1. Severe nasal congestion
2. Overgrowth of polyps in the nose, which typically recur after surgical removal
3. Decreased sense of taste and/or smell
4. Facial pressure and pain
5. Frequent headaches
6. Moderate to severe asthma causing wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and/or shortness of breath
7. Fatigue caused by sleep deprivation
8. Significant opacification of the sinuses seen in X-rays and CT scans of the sinuses

Diagnosis:
The diagnosis is suspected when there is a history of an exacerbation of one’s asthma following ingestion of aspirin and/or NSAID’s. The diagnosis is confirmed if the symptoms are induced or aggravated during an oral aspirin challenge, where incremental doses of aspirin are administered by mouth under the close monitoring by a board certified allergist.

Treatment Options:
Complete avoidance of aspirin and other salicylates (e.g.,diflunisal (Dolobid); salsalate (Disalcid), as well as other related NSAID medications called COX-1 inhibitors (e.g., all NSAID’s except celecoxib) will help some patients attain better control of their symptoms. For some individuals, however, these medications can be substituted for other similar NSAID pain relievers called COX-2 inhibitors [e.g., celecoxib (Celebrex)] without adverse effects. Note that Celebrex (celecoxib) is currently the only approved COX-2 inhibitor NSAID in the U.S. Some, but not all, of the common available NSAID’s which are COX-1 inhibitors include [e.g., ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil); naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox); fenoprofen (Nalfon); flurbiprofen (Ansaid); ketorolac (Toradol); diclofenac (Voltaren, Arthrotec); etodolac (Lodine); sulindac (Clinoril); oxaprozin (Daypro); indomethacin (Indocin); tolmetin (Tolectin); nabumetone (Relafen); piroxicam (Feldene); meloxicam (Mobic)]. Avoidance of aspirin is not always possible due to the need for aspirin in the management of heart, blood vessel, and joint diseases. In addition, even with the avoidance of aspirin and NSAID’s, AERD patients usually experience progressive airways disease, despite aggressive surgical intervention and/or topical or systemic anti-inflammatory treatment with corticosteroids and leukotriene antagonists like montelukast (Singulair), zafirlukast (Accolate), and zileutin (Zyflo).

For these individuals that need to be treated with aspirin, aspirin desensitization followed by regular long term intake of aspirin is an alternative option. Multiple studies have shown that desensitization and daily treatment with aspirin can significantly improve overall symptoms and quality of life, decrease formation of nasal polyps and sinus infections, reduce the need for oral corticosteroids and sinus surgery, and improve nasal and asthma scores in patient with AERD. Significant clinical improvement is seen in as little as 4 weeks after treatment.

The procedure for aspirin desensitization involves administering aspirin by mouth in gradually increasing doses at regular intervals, while closely monitoring for adverse effects in a controlled setting such as an allergy office. The process can take 1 to 2 days.
There is a potential for adverse reactions during the procedure like nasal congestion, generalized itching (pruritus), hives (urticaria), swelling of the soft tissues (angioedema), wheezing, breathing difficulty, drop of blood pressure, and/or anaphylaxis. In case of a minor adverse reaction, they may be treated with medications. After observation for about 3 hours, the last dose can be repeated. Many individuals will be able to successfully finish the procedure in spite of some untoward reactions. Pre-treatment with leukotriene antagonists (e.g., montelukast) play a role in minimizing the risk of reactions during the desensitization procedure.

Aspirin desensitization reduces nasal congestion and nasal polyp formation, improves respiratory symptoms, reduces the need for surgery, and decreases the need for ongoing medications. The board certified allergists at Black & Kletz Allergy have had over 50 years of experience with patients who have aspirin sensitivity. Desensitization in patients who are sensitive to aspirin can be done in any of our 3 office locations in the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland metropolitan area. Black & Kletz Allergy has offices in Washington, DC, McLean, VA (Tysons Corner, VA), and Manassas, VA. We offer on-site parking at all of our offices and the Washington, DC and McLean, VA offices are Metro accessible. There is a free shuttle that transports patients between our McLean, VA office and the Spring Hill metro station on the silver line. For an appointment, please call us or alternatively, you can click Request an Appointment and we will respond within 24 hours by the next business day. Black & Kletz Allergy treats both adults and children suffering from all types of allergies (i.e., hay fever, food, medication, insect stings), asthma, sinus problems, hives, swelling episodes, eczema, and immunologic disorders. We strive to provide exceptional quality allergy and asthma care to the Washington, DC metro community in a friendly and professional setting.

Allergy Shots – A Brief Overview

Allergy shots are synonymous with other terms such as allergy immunotherapy, allergy injections, allergy desensitization, and allergy hyposensitization. The allergy shots Gainesville, VA residents rely upon are the same allergy shots that have been given in the U.S. for over 100 years. They have been an important method of preventing and/or diminishing allergy symptoms in tens of millions of individuals over the last century.

Allergy shots can be given to almost any person and are given to any individual over the age of 2. Usually, however, most children do not begin allergy injections earlier than 4 years of age. They can be given to children, teenagers, adults, and the elderly. They can be continued in a pregnant individual as well as in a person who is nursing, as long as it is confirmed by the patient’s obstetrician and/or pediatrician of the nursing baby.

Allergy injections are given to patients with allergic rhinitis (i.e., hay fever), allergic conjunctivitis, asthma, and venom hypersensitivity (i.e., allergy to stings of bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, and/or bites from fire ants). The idea behind them is to get to the root of the problem, as opposed to treating the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, and asthma. By receiving allergy injections, one’s body develops antibodies that help prevent the allergen (e.g., dust mites, molds, pollens, pets, cockroaches, venom) from causing the unwanted allergy and/or asthma symptoms.

Allergy immunotherapy is useful and may be considered when one is allergic to substances that cannot be avoided. They are also used in individuals that have failed over the counter therapy and/or prescription medications. There are other individuals that do not want to take medications on a daily basis. Others have very severe symptoms and develop secondary problems (e.g., sinus infections, ear infections, bronchitis, asthma) from untreated or sub-par treatment from medications. Many people cannot deal with the side effects of many of the allergy medications. Still others would like to treat the cause of the allergy rather than just treat the symptoms of allergy and/or asthma.

During allergy immunotherapy, very small doses of the allergens that the individual is allergic to are administered subcutaneously (i.e., just under the skin into the fat) of the arm(s) either once a week or twice a week, depending on the patient’s choice. Obviously, if the individual receives the injections more frequently (i.e., twice a week vs. once a week), he or she will get through the build-up process twice as fast. Each dose is increased in strength over the build-up period which at Black & Kletz Allergy is usually 18 doses. Therefore, the maintenance dose (i.e., top dose) is reached in 9 or 18 weeks depending if the individual gets his or her build-up shots twice a week or once a week respectively. Once the maintenance dose is reached, the individual can spread out the frequency of the injections to up to every 4 weeks. Note that many people get their shots more frequently throughout the year depending on their “bad” seasons, such as Spring and Fall which in the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland metropolitan area is very common. Others need their injections more frequently throughout the year since they have perennial symptoms which may require them to get the injections more frequently, depending on their severity of allergy and/or asthma symptoms. The average length of time someone is on the allergy shots Gainesville, VA residents receive from Black & Kletz Allergy ranges between 3-5 years. It is important to note that allergy shots to venoms have a different build-up and maintenance schedule.

The effectiveness of allergy injections is excellent. They have been shown work in 80-85% of individuals taking them. Venom immunotherapy is effective in over 90% of patients receiving them. Allergy injections may also prevent the development of asthma in children with allergic rhinitis. They help to prevent the inflammation that occurs in a typical allergic encounter. Normally when an individual is exposed to a known allergen, many chemicals such as histamine and leukotrienes are released into the bloodstream of the patient. These chemicals are responsible for producing the miserable symptoms of allergies, and in addition, cause inflammation to occur. The allergy shots Gainesville, VA patients receive help the body naturally produce antibodies that will help prevent this process from occurring and thus the individual suffers much less or not at all and has much less or no development of allergic inflammation.

There are essentially no side effects of allergy shots, however there are two risks. The first being the chance of having a local reaction at the site of the injection which may include localized itchiness, redness and/or swelling. The second risk is that of a systemic reaction such as developing generalized itching, hives, swelling, wheezing, abdominal cramps, drop in blood pressure, which potentially can be serious. For that reason, although very rare to occur, it is important to wait 30 minutes in our office after an allergy injection, so that we could treat you with epinephrine and/or Benadryl if necessary. Despite the rarity of a systemic reaction, it can occur and it is necessary to wait the 30 minutes after an injection. A longer wait time is needed for individuals receiving venom immunotherapy.

In summary, allergy shots are a very effective treatment modality for individuals with allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, asthma, and/or venom hypersensitivity. As mentioned above, they have been given in the U.S. for over a century and can be given to all ages from young children to the elderly. The board certified allergists at Black & Kletz Allergy have been administering allergy shots for over 50 years. We have one office location in Washington, DC and 2 offices in Northern Virginia with one office in McLean, VA (Tysons Corner, VA) and another in Manassas, VA. We have on-site parking at all 3 office locations and the Washington, DC and McLean, VA offices are Metro accessible. There is a free shuttle that runs between the McLean office and the Spring Hill metro station on the silver line. If you suffer from allergies, asthma, sinus problems, hives, swelling episodes, and/or immunological conditions, please call our office to schedule an appointment or you can click Request an Appointment and we will respond within 24 hours by the next business day. Black & Kletz Allergy prides ourselves in providing high quality allergy and asthma care in a professional, inviting, and friendly environment.

Molds and Your Health

As we enter into the leaf-falling season, according to allergy specialists Gainesville, VA residents trust, some of us may experience a flare-up of mold-related health issues.  Molds are tiny fungi and grow well in damp environments.  Wet leaves form a substrate on which various types of molds can flourish. The microscopic spores released from growing molds float in the air and we breathe in these mold spores.

Exposure to certain molds can cause adverse human health effects through three specific mechanisms:

  1. Generation of a harmful immune response (e.g., allergic or hypersensitivity pneumonitis)
  2. Direct infection by the organism
  3. Toxic/irritant effects from mold byproducts

ALLERGY:

It is estimated that approximately 10% of the population have IgE antibodies to common inhalant molds.  About half of these individuals (5% of the population) are predicted to have, at some time, allergic symptoms as a consequence of exposure to fungal allergens.  The best allergy specialists Gainesville, VA residents rely on, have stated that sensitization to molds, particularly Alternaria alternata, has been linked to the presence, persistence, and severity of asthma.  Alternaria alternata is also referred to as “leaf fungi.”

Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) and allergic fungal sinusitis are two conditions which result from the hypersensitivity to certain molds in the Aspergillus family which causes excessive tissue inflammation in the lungs and sinuses respectively.  Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is an uncommon but important disease that can occur as a result of mold exposure, particularly in occupational settings with high levels of exposure.

INFECTION:

Common superficial fungal infections like thrush, jock itch (i.e., tinea cruris), and toenail fungus are determined by local changes in the skin barrier and can occur in healthy individuals.

Host features (such as a compromised immune system) rather than environmental exposure, are the major determining factors of more severe opportunistic fungal infections.

TOXICITY:

The occurrence of mold-related toxicity from exposure to inhaled mycotoxins (i.e., toxins produced from molds) in non-occupational settings is not supported by the current data and its occurrence is improbable, according to allergy specialists in Gainesville, VA.

IRRITATION:

An irritant is a material causing ‘‘a reversible inflammatory effect on living tissue by a chemical action at the site of contact.’’ The eyes and the upper and lower respiratory tracts are usually affected by exposure to molds.  Irritant effects are dose related and their effects are transient, disappearing when the exposure has diminished or ended.

ASSESSMENT:

In individuals with chronic inflammatory conditions affecting the respiratory tract, (e.g., allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, asthma), the measurement of IgE antibodies to mold proteins by skin testing and/or blood testing is very helpful in the identification of the specific agents that trigger and aggravate allergic symptoms.

Allergy specialists Gainesville, VA residents trust, state that the measurement of specific IgE and IgG antibodies to certain mold proteins via blood testing can aid in the diagnosis of ABPA and/or hypersensitivity pneumonitis in people presenting with clinical manifestations suggestive of these conditions.

The board certified allergists at Black & Kletz Allergy have had many years of experience in diagnosing and treating mold-related health issues and offer services through our 3 convenient locations in the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland metropolitan area.  We diagnose and treat both adults and children who suffer from allergies, asthma, sinus problems, eczema, food allergies, insect sting allergies, medication allergies, hives, swelling episodes, generalized itching, and immunological conditions.  Our offices are located in Washington, DC, McLean, VA (Tysons Corner, VA), and Manassas, VA.  We have on-site parking at each office and the Washington, DC and McLean, VA offices are Metro accessible.  The McLean, VA office offers a free shuttle that runs between the McLean, VA office and the Spring Hill metro station on the silver line.  Please call our office to schedule an appointment, if you suffer from mold allergies or any other type of allergy, sinus condition, or asthma.  You can also click Request an Appointment and we will respond within 24 hours by the next business day.  The best allergy specialists Gainesville, VA has to offer have been committed to providing high quality allergy care to the greater Washington, DC community for more than 50 years.

Alcohol Allergy and Intolerance

As allergy specialists Centreville, VA patients trust may attest, while it is possible to be allergic to alcoholic beverages, an alcohol allergy is relatively rare.  Most of the time, it is an intolerance and not an allergy to the alcohol that is bothersome to an individual.  An intolerance is basically an unwanted side effect of the alcohol.

True alcohol allergies can occur and generally are not an allergic reaction to the alcohol itself, but more likely an allergic reaction to an ingredient in the alcoholic beverage.  Some of the ingredients that may cause a true food allergy include barley, rye, wheat, corn, hops, grapes, egg, and yeast.  Symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening and can be the same symptoms that one experiences with alcohol intolerance (discussed below), which is why contacting an allergy specialist Centreville, VA has to offer may be crucial.

Most individuals that have reactions from drinking alcohol, however, have alcohol intolerance.  Some of the symptoms commonly associated with alcohol intolerance may include facial flushing, increased heart rate, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, headaches, nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, wheezing, shortness of breath, generalized itching (pruritus), hives (urticaria), swelling (angioedema), decreased blood pressure, and/or anaphylaxis.

If you speak to an allergy specialist in Centreville, VA, they might mention some of the following causes of alcohol intolerance which include:

  1. Sulfites:  Sulfites are put into most bottles of wine to act as a preservative. Note that one can buy sulfite-free wine, but the supply is much more limited than wines that contain sulfites.  Sulfites are found in many other foods, medications, and vaccines.  Many individuals are sensitive to sulfites and this preservative can cause hives, swelling, and even anaphylaxis in very sensitive individuals.  An estimated 5-10% of asthmatics have the propensity for sulfites to exacerbate their asthma.  Sulfites may be labeled as sodium metabisulfite, sodium bisulfite, sodium sulfite, potassium metabisulfite, potassium bisulfite, or sulfur dioxide (which technically is not a sulfite, but is a close relative).
  2. Inactivated Aldehyde Dehydrogenase:  Aldehyde dehydrogenase is an enzyme that breaks down alcohol to acetic acid (i.e., vinegar).  Some individuals have a genetic mutation that inactivates this enzyme which results in a flushed face and body during the consumption of alcohol.  They may also experience rapid heart rate, nausea, and/or headache.  In these people, alcohol is not broken down into acetic acid, and as a consequence, there is a build-up of acetaldehyde which is the cause of the flushing.  This mutation is more common in individuals of Asian descent as approximately 35% of East Asians have this condition and thus is sometimes referred to as “Asian flush syndrome.”  The gene change responsible for this mutation is thought to be linked with the domestication of rice, several hundreds of years ago in southern China.  The flushing syndrome is associated with a lower rate of alcoholism, probably due to the adverse effects when drinking alcohol, as well as an increase risk to esophageal cancer in those individuals who drink.
  3. Histamine:  Top allergy specialists Centreville, VA residents turn to should know that alcoholic drinks contain the chemical histamine, which is generated by the fermenting of yeast.  Histamine is released into the bloodstream in a normal allergic reaction and is attributable for many of the symptoms found in hay fever (allergic rhinitis).  Histamine found in alcoholic beverages are primarily responsible for the nasal congestion that one notices while drinking alcohol.
  4. An Underlying Medical Condition:  Hives and/or swelling can be exacerbated in patients with chronic hives (chronic urticaria) and/or swelling (angioedema).  Likewise, patients with Hodgkin’s lymphoma and other cancers are more likely to have alcohol-induced pain.  Individuals using medications such as Antabuse (i.e., disulfiram), Flagyl (i.e., metronidazole), and tinidazole (i.e., Tindamax, Fasigyn, Simplotan). Antabuse inhibits the enzyme, aldehyde dehydrogenase, thus causing the same flushing, increased heart rate, nausea, vomiting, and/or headaches found in the flushing syndrome mentioned above. Flagyl and Tindamax both are anti-parasitic medications and Flagyl is also used as an antibiotic.  Both of these medications interfere with the breakdown of alcohol and cause symptoms such as flushing, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headaches, sweating, increased heart rate, decreased blood pressure, and liver damage.  Keep in mind that small amounts of alcohol (e.g., 1 tablespoon) are all that is needed to cause reactions when mixed with these medications.  Many over the counter oral and topical products contain alcohol such as colognes, aftershaves, cough syrups, mouthwashes, etc. and should be avoided while taking Flagyl and/or Tindamax.  There may also be other medications that should not be taken together with alcohol. As experienced allergy specialists Centreville, VA patients recommend highly, it is important to read the warnings on all prescription bottles from the pharmacy to ensure one’s safety.

Contact a Top Centreville, VA Allergy Specialist Today
If you have had an untoward reaction or side effect from consuming alcohol, please call the board certified allergists at Black & Kletz Allergy to schedule an appointment.  Food testing can be done to rule out an actual food allergy that is present in all alcoholic drinks.  Black & Kletz Allergy has 3 offices in the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland metropolitan area located in Washington, DC, McLean, VA (Tysons Corner, VA), and Manassas, VA.  All 3 locations offer on-site parking.  In  addition, the Washington, DC and McLean, VA offices are Metro accessible with a free shuttle available that runs between the McLean, VA office and the Spring Hill metro station on the silver line.  To make an appointment, please call us or alternatively, you can click Request an Appointment and we will respond within 24 hours by the next business day.  Black & Kletz Allergy has been providing high quality allergy and asthma care to the DC metro community for more than a half century. If you have experienced alcohol allergies or intolerance, turn to allergy specialists Centreville, VA is proud to have in its community.

Hay Fever in the Fall

September may be the month to consult an allergy specialist Centreville VA patients turn to, as ragweed pollen counts peak and wreak havoc in allergic individuals in the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland metropolitan area including the following cities in Northern Virginia: McLean, VA, Tysons Corner, VA, Vienna, VA, Fairfax, VA, Arlington, VA, Great Falls, VA, Falls Church, VA, Annandale, VA, Alexandria, VA, Reston, VA, Herndon, VA, Sterling, VA, Oakton, VA, Burke, VA, Manassas, VA, Centreville, VA, Chantilly, VA, Gainesville, VA, Haymarket, VA, Warrenton, VA, Springfield, VA, Dumfries, VA, Culpeper, VA, Ashburn, VA, Leesburg, VA, Purcellville, VA. Ragweed also affects the surrounding Maryland cities such as Bethesda, MD, Chevy Chase, MD, Potomac, MD, Great Falls, MD, Gaithersburg, MD, Rockville, MD, Darnestown, MD, Germantown, MD, Olney, MD, Silver Spring, MD, Wheaton, MD, College Park, MD, Hyattsville, MD, Beltsville, MD, Bowie, MD, Clinton, MD, Annapolis, MD, Columbia, MD, and Baltimore, MD. In the DC metropolitan area, ragweed begins to pollinate in mid-September and ends at the first frost which is usually at the end of October.

What is Ragweed?
As an allergy specialist Centreville, VA has to offer might attest, ragweed is a tough and hardy soft-stemmed weed that can grow well along roadsides, riverbanks, vacant lots, and fields. It belongs to a genus called Ambrosia and there are 17 different species of ragweed. The height of the plants generally range from about 3 inches to 12 feet.

The plants mature in mid-Summer and produce small flowers. Warmth, decreased humidity, and active breezes after sunrise help create the ideal environment for ragweed flowers to release their pollen. Each individual plant can release up to one billion pollen grains. Though most of the released pollen stays in the general area, some grains can travel as many as 500 miles in dry and windy conditions. This helps explain why pollen counts are usually lowest on rainy days and cool mornings. Individual plants pollinate only for one season but the seeds survive in the soil from year to year producing fresh crops each year. Over the past decade, the EPA has noticed a prolonged ragweed season in the Washington, DC area. Climate changes and increased carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere may play a role in this prolongation of the ragweed season.

How Does it Cause Allergies?
Though ragweed pollen is generally harmless, in a genetically susceptible individual, the immune system can mistake it as potentially dangerous invader and mount a defensive attack. This process triggers antigen (ragweed) vs. antibody (immunoglobulin) reactions on exposure, resulting in the release of chemical mediators like histamine which are responsible for the classic annoying hay fever and/or asthma symptoms. An estimated 15% of all Americans are sensitive to ragweed. As an allergy specialist in Centreville VA may explain, the risk of developing sensitivity is higher in people with other types of allergic disorders like eczema (i.e., atopic dermatitis) and asthma and in those with a family history of similar disorders.

What are the Symptoms?

  • Itchy nose, eyes, throat, and ears
  • Watery and/or red eyes
  • Runny nose, nasal congestion, and/or post-nasal drip
  • Sneezing
  • Post nasal drip and/or throat irritation
  • Cough, chest tightness, wheezing, and/or shortness of breath
  • Sinus pressure and/or headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Snoring
  • Clogging and/or popping of the ears

Though “hay fever” is the term commonly in vogue, “seasonal allergic rhinitis” is a more accurate description of the condition.

Oral allergy syndrome (i.e., Pollen-food allergy syndrome) is a condition where one experiences itching of the lips, mouth, and/or throat after eating fresh fruits and/or vegetables. The cause of the phenomenon is a cross-reactivity between similar proteins in the pollen and the fruits and/or vegetables. Ragweed pollen typically cross-reacts with melons, bananas, cucumbers, avocados, kiwi, and zucchini.

How is it Diagnosed?
An allergy specialist Centreville, VA residents turn to for help will take a thorough history and physical examination. A simple allergy skin test can be performed by applying the diluted allergen (ragweed) to the surface of the skin. A raised, itchy, red bump after 15 to 20 minutes at the site of application confirms sensitivity to the allergen. Alternatively, a blood test can also be done.

What Can Be Done to Minimize the Symptoms?

  • Keeping track of pollen counts and avoiding outdoor activities to the possible extent on high pollen days.
  • Keeping the windows closed in homes and automobiles and running air-conditioning.
  • Changing clothes and showering before going to bed.

If the symptoms are bothersome in spite of environmental control, several medications like antihistamines, nasal sprays, eye drops, and inhalers may be needed. Keep in mind that most medications only mask the symptoms without treating the underlying cause and can cause undesirable side effects. Many individuals also become tolerant to an antihistamine and what had helped initially becomes ineffective.

Allergen immunotherapy (i.e., allergy shots, allergy injections, allergy desensitization) is a process of increasing tolerance to the allergens by exposing the immune system to gradually increasing the concentrations of the antigen at regular intervals. This process has the potential to offer long-term benefit to many people who experience bothersome symptoms every year. Allergy shots are effective in 80-85% of individuals and have been used in the U.S. for over 100 years.

A Centreville, VA allergy specialist at Black & Kletz Allergy can treat both adults and children with ragweed allergies in the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland metropolitan area. We have convenient offices in Washington, DC, McLean, VA (Tysons Corner, VA), and Manassas, VA that all offer on-site parking. The Washington, DC and McLean, VA offices are Metro accessible and there is a free shuttle between the McLean, VA office and the Springhill metro station on the silver line. Please call us for an appointment or alternatively you can click Request an Appointment and we will respond within 24 hours by the next business day. We can also answer your questions and concerns about other allergic and immunologic disorders, since we have been providing allergy, asthma, and immunology care to the local community for over 50 years. If you’re looking for an allergy specialist Centreville, VA patients recommend, turn to a board certified allergist at Black & Kletz Allergy.

Generalized Itching and What Should Be Done About It

Everyone has had an itch here or there, but as an allergist Washington DC patients rely on might attest, generalized itching (itching all over the body) does not occur in everyone.  Generalized itching (i.e., pruritus) is not uncommon and is very annoying to the person suffering from this condition.  It often may be associated with hives (i.e., urticaria), and/or angioedema (i.e., swelling).  The intensity of the itching can range from mild to very severe.  It can be so bothersome that it decreases the quality of life for that individual.

In many cases, the generalized itching is short-lived and subsides in a couple of days.  In a number of cases, however, it persists more than a couple of days and the duration can last for years in extreme cases.  Most individuals have tried over-the-counter topical creams and/or oral medications with minimal or no effect by the time they seek help from an allergist Washington DC patients trust.

The board certified allergist at Black & Kletz Allergy have seen and treated thousands of cases of generalized pruritus throughout the years in the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland metropolitan area.  Our 3 office locations in Washington, DC, McLean, VA (Tysons Corner, VA), and Manassas, VA affords us the opportunity to treat patients in such adjacent Northern Virginia cities, some of which include Arlington, VA, Alexandria, VA, Falls Church, VA, Vienna, VA, Great Falls, VA, Reston, VA, Herndon, VA, Sterling, VA, Annandale, VA, Oakton, VA, Burke, VA, Centreville, VA, Haymarket, VA, Chantilly, VA, Gainesville, VA, Fairfax, VA, Springfield, VA, Warrenton, VA, Dumfries, VA, Culpeper, VA, Ashburn, VA,  Leesburg, VA, and Purcellville, VA.  In addition, we also treat many patients from Maryland due to its proximity to our offices largely from the following cities:  Chevy Chase, MD, Bethesda, MD, Potomac, MD, Great Falls, MD, Rockville, MD, Gaithersburg, MD, Darnestown, MD, Germantown, MD, Olney, MD, Wheaton, MD, Silver Spring, MD, College Park, MD, Beltsville, MD, Hyattsville, MD, Clinton, MD, Bowie, MD, Columbia, MD, Annapolis, MD, and Baltimore, MD.

It may be important to see an allergist in Washington, DC for generalized pruritus in order to try to find out the cause.  At Black & Kletz Allergy, it begins with a thorough history and physical examination.  There are many causes of itching ranging from different allergies (e.g., foods, medications, contact with allergens) to various systemic medical conditions, some of which may be serious.  It is therefore important that a cause be identified, so that either the allergen is avoided or treatment can be aimed at the underlying systemic condition responsible for the manifestation of the itching.  In many acute (i.e., less than 6 weeks in duration) cases of generalized pruritus, no testing is needed as a thorough history and physical examination may be enough in order to figure out the cause.  When the duration exceeds this length of time and/or symptoms are very bothersome, allergy tests and/or blood tests may be indicated in order to find the cause of the itching.  Either way, patients are treated on their first visit with medications in order to stop their itching.

Contact an allergist Washington DC residents respect
The allergy doctors at Black & Kletz Allergy treat both adults and children.  If you suffer from itching, hives, swelling episodes, or any other allergy such as hay fever, asthma, sinus conditions, and/or eczema, please call one of our 3 offices to make an appointment.  Alternatively, you can click Request an Appointment and we will respond within 24 hours by the next business day.  All of the offices offer on-site parking and the Washington, DC and McLean, VA offices are Metro accessible.  There is a free shuttle that runs between our McLean, VA office and the Spring Hill metro station on the silver line.  Black & Kletz Allergy has been providing high quality allergy, asthma, and immunology care to the greater Washington, DC metro area for more than 50 years. Call us today for an allergist Washington DC is proud to have in its community.

Fall Allergies are Quickly Approaching

As the Summer draws closer to an end in Gainesville, VA, Tysons Corner, VA, Falls Church, VA, and the rest of the Washington, DC metropolitan area, you may be searching for an allergist in Arlington, VA as certain allergens become more prevalent which tend to cause an increase in allergy symptoms in certain allergic individuals. In the Washington, DC, Northern, VA, and Maryland metro area, mid-August marks the time of the year when ragweed begins to pollinate. The ragweed pollen levels will steadily increase and generally peak in late September, and then gradually decrease and usually vanish upon the first frost in late October. In addition, mold spores are important allergens in the Fall in the DC area, which is why many seek an allergist in Arlington, VA during this time of year. Since Washington, DC was built on a swamp, there is always mold in the Washington, DC metro area environment, however, the mold levels increase during the rains in the Spring, during the hot humid Summers, and during the Fall, especially when the leaves on the trees fall to the ground. When the leaves fall onto the ground and become damp, the leaves decay producing an increase in the amount of leaf mold. When people rake these leaves in the Fall, it stirs up the leaves which subsequently increases the mold exposure to an individual which can give rise to an increase in their allergic rhinitis (hay fever), allergic conjunctivitis, or asthma symptoms.

Turn to an allergist in Arlington, VA if you have these symptoms:
The typical symptoms that one may experience may include: sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, post-nasal drip, itchy nose, itchy eyes, watery eyes, puffy eyes, redness of the eyes, sinus pressure, sinus pain, fatigue, snoring, itchy throat, wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and/or shortness of breath. Many people develop sinus infections during this period as well. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time to consult an allergist in Arlington, VA that the community trusts. The diagnosis of Fall allergies can be made by seeing a board certified allergist in Arlington, VA, such as the ones at Black & Kletz Allergy. The allergy doctors will take a thorough history and perform a physical examination. Allergy testing either by blood or skin testing can be done in order to find out if and what the offending allergens may be. Environmental prevention measures are discussed with patients and medications are usually prescribed in the form of tablets, capsules, syrups, powders, nasal sprays, eye drops, and/or lung inhalers. Allergy immunotherapy (i.e., allergy shots, allergy injections, allergy desensitization) is a very effective treatment modality to treat and prevent unwanted annoying allergy and/or asthma symptoms. They are effective in 80-85% of patients on them and they have been around for over 100 years. They are used in all ages from little children through the elderly. The average length of time that patients are on allergy immunotherapy is between 3-5 years, however, some individuals are on allergy shots longer.

Contact an Allergist in Arlington, VA Today
The allergy specialists at Black & Kletz Allergy specialize in both adults and children and have been taking care of the allergy, asthma, sinus, and immunology needs of the DC metro area for over 50 years. Tysons Corner, VA, Gainesville, VA, Falls Church, VA residents as well as people from the rest of the Washington, DC metropolitan area see us at one of our 3 offices with locations in Washington, DC, McLean, VA, (Tysons Corner, VA), and Manassas, VA. We have on-site parking at each office and the Washington, DC and McLean, VA offices are Metro accessible. There is a free shuttle that runs between our McLean office and the Springhill metro station on the silver line. Please call one of our offices to make an appointment to see one of our highly qualified board certified allergists in Arlington, VA or you can click Request an Appointment and we will respond back to you within 24 hours of the next business day. If you are in need of an allergist in Arlington, VA, turn to Black & Kletz Allergy for a professional and caring environment with high quality innovative allergy, asthma, and immunology care.