The Itch: Allergies, Asthma, Eczema & Immunology

#112 - Managing Food Allergies in Babies and Toddlers (Ages 0–5)

How do you keep a baby or toddler safe with food allergies when they put everything in their mouths and can’t yet explain how they feel?

This stage of life is full of firsts, not just for your child, but for you as a parent managing food allergies. From introducing new foods to navigating daycare and watching for reactions in a child who can’t speak yet, there are countless moments you’ll need to manage. This episode focuses on building safe habits early, empowering caregivers, and showing how simple routines (like label reading or toy wiping) can make a big difference.

Allergist Dr. Basil Kahwash joins Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta to explore how food allergy care evolves from infancy through preschool. They cover real-life, practical strategies from wiping toys and watching for symptoms to managing daycare risks and building early self-advocacy skills.

What we cover in our episode about managing food allergies in toddlers:

• Why age matters. Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers each need different safety strategies.
• What symptoms look like. Learn how reactions can show up in babies who can’t talk.
• Introducing new foods. Why early introduction still matters even after a new food allergy diagnosis.
• Daycare safety tips. How to prep caregivers and keep your child protected.
• Building habits early. From label reading to toy wiping, young kids learn by watching you.

Episode 3 in our “Food Allergies: Ages & Stages” series 

Across six episodes, we explore how food allergies show up and shift through different phases of life, from introducing solids in infancy to navigating school and adapting in adulthood. We’re here with evidence-based info, expert insights, and lived experience to guide you through it all.

• Episode 1: Early Allergen Introduction (Ep. 110)
• Episode 2: Food Allergy Basics for Newly Diagnosed Families (Ep. 111)

Episodes to build a better food allergy foundation:

• • Episode 59: What is Anaphylaxis and When to Use Epinephrine
  • Episode 95: The Science Behind Allergic Reactions
  • Episode. 97: The Nuances of Food Allergy Testing 
  • Episode 98: Food Allergy Treatment and Management

 

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Genentech and Acuqestive for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

#111 - Food Allergy Basics for All Ages

Just diagnosed with a food allergy and feeling lost? You’re not alone and don’t have to figure out food allergy life by yourself. We’re here to help you understand food allergy basics: what causes allergic reactions, how to recognize symptoms, and how to manage your allergy safely, every day.

This is the second episode in our Food Allergies: Ages & Stages, and it’s all about building a strong foundation after a new diagnosis. Whether it’s your child, your partner, or you who was recently diagnosed, Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta walk through everything you need to know in those early days. From understanding how allergic reactions work to learning about life-saving tools like epinephrine, and new management options like OIT and omalizumab.

Dr. G explains what causes your immune system to misfire, how fast symptoms can appear, and why no two reactions are the same. We also dive into real-life strategies like carrying your epinephrine device, knowing when and how to use it, and navigating social situations. Plus, Kortney shares personal tips that have helped her live safely with food allergies for over 30 years.

What we cover in our episode about managing a new food allergy diagnosis

• What just happened?! We explain what causes allergic reactions, including the roles of IgE, histamine, and mast cells.
• Are all allergic reactions the same? Learn how quickly reactions can occur and why symptoms aren’t always predictable.
• Why is epinephrine so important? When to use epinephrine, how to use it, and why antihistamines aren't enough.
• New options to help manage food allergies. A look at treatments like OIT and omalizumab (Xolair) and why you still need to carry your epi.
• Peace of mind with an action plan. What to include in a Food Allergy Action Plan and how to help others take your allergy seriously.

Episode 2 in our “Food Allergies: Ages & Stages” series 

Across six episodes, we explore how food allergies show up and shift through different phases of life, from introducing solids in infancy to navigating school and adapting in adulthood. We’re here with evidence-based info, expert insights, and lived experience to guide you through it all.

Episodes mentioned to help build your foundation:

• Episode 59: What is Anaphylaxis and When to Use Epinephrine
• Episode 95: The Science Behind Allergic Reactions
• Episode 98: Food Allergy Treatment and Management
• Ep. 110: Early Introduction of Allergenic Foods – Preventing Food Allergies Before They Start

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Genentech and Acuqestive for sponsoring today’s episode. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

#110 - Early Introduction of Allergenic Foods: Preventing Food Allergies Before They Start

Did you know you could potentially reduce your baby’s risk of developing food allergies by up to 80%?

That’s the power of early allergen introduction. Feeding a baby the top 9 allergens consistently starting between 4 to 6 months can make a life-changing difference.

We’re launching a brand-new series about food allergies at various stages of life. Whether you’re just starting solids, navigating a new diagnosis, or in a new stage of life, this series is here to support you with evidence-based tips and real talk. In this first episode, Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta explore how to potentially prevent food allergies before they even develop.

Why do you want to know more about introducing allergens to baby?

For years, parents were told to wait until toddlers were older before introducing allergenic foods. But groundbreaking research, including the LEAP, LEAP-On, and PETIT studies, turned that advice on its head.

 

We no longer wait to feed babies food allergens. Instead, early (around 4–6 months) and sustained exposure to top allergens like peanut and egg is recommended for all babies. In this episode, Dr. G and Kortney explain the studies, walk you through how to do it safely, and bust common myths that leave parents confused or anxious.

What we cover in our episode about early allergen introduction

• Why guidelines changed: Learn how the LEAP & PETIT studies reshaped allergy prevention.
• How to introduce the top 9 allergenic foods safely, including forms that are appropriate for infants.
• What “sustained exposure” means and how often to serve allergens after that first taste.
  How eczema increases allergy risk and what transcutaneous sensitization means.
• What allergic signs to watch for: mild hives vs. serious allergic reactions and when to call the doctor.

More resources about food allergy prevention

• USDA Updates Dietary Guidelines to Include Introduction of Food Allergens
• Delaware Adopts Law Covering Early Introduction of Food Allergens
• What is a food allergy?
• American Academy of Pediatrics Early Feeding Guidelines
• AAAAI / ACAAI handouts on introducing peanut & egg
• FARE: How to Use Peanut Puffs Safely
• Solid Starts: Peanut Butter Guide (Creative Ways to Serve)
• PreventAllergies.org Recipe Library
• Our infant anaphylaxis episode (with Dr. Mike)

#109 - Tezepelumab & Nasal Polyps: Inside the WAYPOINT Phase III Trial

Have you wondered why having more drug options matters for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps?

In the inaugural episode of our new series, The Itch Review, co-hosts Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta, along with special guest Dr. Michael Blaiss, unpack the journal article "Tezepelumab in Adults with Severe Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps," published in the New England Journal of Medicine on March 1, 2025.

This article is about the Phase III WAYPOINT trial of tezepelumab. Already approved for severe asthma, this once-monthly biologic is now showing promise in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). Over 52 weeks, 408 patients were randomized to receive 210 mg of tezepelumab every four weeks or placebo. Researchers tracked nasal-polyp scores, congestion, sense of smell, and rates of rescue surgery.

In this episode, we provide a brief overview of what CRSwNP is, why inflammation drives polyp formation and how blocking TSLP fits into today’s biologics options. We’ll walk you through the WAYPOINT Phase III design, explain the primary and secondary endpoints, and translate the headline results into what they mean for real-world patients who’ve exhausted their treatment options.

➡️ Get the infographic here.

What we cover in our episode about treating chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps with tezepelumab

• CRSwNP basics & tezepelumab mechanism of action: How nasal polyps form and why targeting TSLP can reduce inflammation
• WAYPOINT design: 52-week, placebo-controlled Phase III study in 408 patients 
• Primary endpoints: Mean change in nasal polyp score and nasal-congestion score
• Secondary endpoints: Smell recovery, need for rescue surgery or systemic steroids, and quality-of-life measures
• Why choice matters: Every CRSwNP patient responds differently, and having more treatment options means more chances to find the right fit

 

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to AstraZeneca for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

#108 - Interview with Dr. James Tracy, ACAAI President

Ever wonder who’s working behind the scenes to improve allergy care nationwide?

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. James Tracy, the 2024-2025 president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), to explore how the College supports both patients and clinicians. Dr. Tracy shares how he got involved, what drives his leadership, and what’s ahead for the future of allergy and asthma care.

From workforce shortages to the promise of AI in medicine, this conversation takes you behind the curtain of the specialty. Plus, we dig into how patients and providers alike can make a difference through advocacy.

What we cover in our episode about ACAAI, leadership & allergy care

• Dr. Tracy’s unique path to leadership: How his non-traditional journey from practicing in rural Nebraska to leading the ACAAI shaped his approach to advocacy and patient care.
• Creating leadership opportunities: Why mentorship and involvement in ACAAI committees can open doors for clinicians, fellows-in-training, and future leaders in allergy and immunology.
• Patient tools that make a difference: Free ACAAI resources that help patients better understand and manage their conditions.
• The evolving role of the allergist: How allergists are uniquely trained to manage complex conditions and why that matters as technology, treatment options, and care delivery evolve.
• Future-focused leadership at ACAAI: Dr. Tracy’s vision for tackling workforce shortages, embracing AI and gene editing, and keeping patient care at the center of innovation.

Resources:

• Asthma Allergy Day on Capitol Hill
• More information about advocacy
• The American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology Patient Resources
• The American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology Allergist Finder

#107 - Understanding Hives in the Latinx Population

Ever wonder how culture and language barriers affect diagnosing chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) in Latinx patients?

In this episode, allergist Dr. Juanita Mora joins Kortney and Dr. Gupta to discuss chronic spontaneous urticaria (hives) and the unique challenges faced by the Latinx community. They highlight the importance of cultural competency in health care and the barriers that Latinx patients often encounter, such as language differences and access to specialists. They also discuss how Latinx patients are often not given all treatment options for hives, such as biologics. 

Dr. Mora emphasizes the importance of having resources available in Spanish and encourages patients and families to advocate for their care. They explore practical tips on how technology, family support, and proper patient education can help overcome barriers, leading to better diagnosis, treatment, and improved quality of life for Hispanic patients managing CSU.

What we cover in our episode about chronic hives in the Latinx community:

• Diagnosing hives in skin of color: How CSU symptoms can present differently on darker skin tones, making accurate diagnosis harder. 
• Overcoming barriers for Latinx patients: The specific hurdles the Latinx community faces like language barriers, limited access to Spanish-speaking allergists, and challenges obtaining advanced treatments such as biologics.
• Role of family and community support: How involving family members and community leaders can improve CSU awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage patients to seek timely medical treatment.
• Importance of Spanish-language patient education: Why accessible, culturally relevant education and resources in Spanish are essential for empowering Latinx patients to manage their CSU effectively.
• Cultural beliefs and CSU diagnosis: How cultural perceptions around health and family influence the timing of diagnosis and willingness to seek medical care.

Resources Spanish

• ¿Qué es la urticaria crónica?
• Urticaria Crónica - Dr. Antonio Olvera 
• Urticaria crónica espontánea/idiopática (erupción crónica)
• Protocolo urticaria cronica 

Resources English

• Chronic Urticaria Management, Resources & Glossary of Terms
• Chronic Hives: 10 Actions to Support Your Mental Health
• Why Are My Hives Not Going Away?

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Novartis for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

#106: The Risks and Realities of Steroid Overuse for Eczema

Have you ever wondered if steroids are the best choice for managing your eczema? 

While both topical and oral steroids offer quick relief from severe eczema flares, understanding their long-term risks and safer alternatives can dramatically improve your quality of life.

In this episode, Dr. Mondana Ghias joins Kortney and Dr. Gupta to discuss the complex role of systemic corticosteroids in eczema management. They dive deep into the short-term relief that steroids provide for severe eczema symptoms and emphasize why steroids must be approached cautiously due to potential side effects and dependency risks.

Dr. Ghias also highlights the unique challenges of eczema care for individuals with skin of color, addressing differences in treatment response and the common issue of hypopigmentation caused by topical steroids.

What we cover in our episode about steroid use in eczema treatment:

• Role of Systemic Steroids: When steroids are necessary and how they quickly manage severe eczema flares.
• Risks and Side Effects: Understanding the serious long-term effects of systemic and topical steroids.
• Steroid Withdrawal: Recognizing the signs of steroid withdrawal and strategies to manage rebound effects.
• Challenges of Topical Steroids for Skin of Color: The unique risks of steroid use and managing hypopigmentation.
• Alternatives to Steroids and Innovative Treatments: The rise of biologics and targeted therapies offering safer, long-term solutions.
• The Importance of Specialist Care: Working with a dermatologist or allergist will help you find a sustainable long-term management plan.

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi and Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

#105 - Understanding Oral Corticosteroid Overuse in Asthma

Ever wonder if the “asthma shot” from the ER, or those go-to steroid pills for your asthma flares, might be doing more harm than good?

Dr. Dipa Sheth joins us to discuss the common pitfalls of relying too heavily on oral corticosteroids (OCS), also known as oral steroids. We unpack why these systemic medications should generally be reserved for short-term use. She also shares how improving asthma control can help you avoid frequent steroid use in the first place.

Although oral steroids can effectively treat asthma flare-ups in emergency settings, overuse poses significant risks, from adrenal insufficiency to osteoporosis. We dig into ways patients can proactively manage their asthma, reduce ER visits, and talk to healthcare providers about preventive treatments (like inhalers or biologics for asthma) that keep inflammation in check without the side effects of frequent steroid use.

Note: Although we discuss oral corticoid steroids, they can also be given as injections or via IV drip for asthma. We would also like to refer to them as systemic steroids as they impact the entire body, unlike inhaled steroids, which target the airways and lungs. 

What we cover in our episode about oral steroid overuse

• Understanding Oral Corticosteroids (OCS): Learn what these steroids (often called the “asthma shot” in the ER) are and how they can help with severe flare-ups.
• Why Overusing Steroids Can Be Risky: Discover the potential long-term side effects of relying on systemic steroids (pills, injections, or IV), from adrenal insufficiency and osteoporosis to more frequent infections.
• Short-Term Fix vs. Lasting Relief for Asthma Care: Learn how urgent care or ER visits may mask an under-managed condition and why seeing a specialist can improve asthma control.
• Safer Alternatives to OCS: Explore inhaled corticosteroids, biologics, and other preventive treatments that target asthma at its source, reducing the need for frequent steroids.
• Taking Control and Reducing ER Visits: Get practical strategies for working with your healthcare provider to minimize steroid use, prevent flare-ups, and break free from the cycle of repeated steroid courses.

This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi and Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, always consult with your healthcare provider.

#104 - Achieving Control in Type 2 Inflammation

What does "control" mean when managing allergic conditions, and how can you achieve it?

When you have asthma, eczema, nasal polyps, or other conditions caused by type 2 inflammation, reaching a state of control can dramatically improve your quality of life. But what does "control" really mean? Is it the same as a cure? And what steps should you take if your current treatment isn't working?

In this episode, Dr. Payel Gupta and Kortney dive deep into the idea of control in the context of Type 2 inflammation. They explain that control doesn't mean you'll never experience symptoms again. Rather, it's about having fewer, milder flare-ups and the freedom to live your life more comfortably.

Dr. Gupta explains what control means for various conditions, why it matters, and how recognizing signs of poor control can protect against long-term complications. Kortney shares her own experience managing asthma and eczema with biologics, highlighting why symptom tracking and regular check-ins with your doctor are essential, even when you’re feeling good.

What we cover in our episode about achieving control over Type 2 inflammation:

• Defining Control in Type 2 Inflammation: Learn what control actually looks like. Discover the difference between controlling symptoms and curing the condition entirely.
• Why Achieving Control Matters: Find out why uncontrolled Type 2 inflammation can lead to worsening symptoms, frequent hospital visits, increased medication needs, and significantly impact your day-to-day life.
• Managing Multiple Conditions and the Role of Specialists: Understand why having more than one Type 2 inflammatory condition can lead to a "domino effect," worsening overall health. Learn how specialists like allergists can help you manage multiple conditions effectively.
• Treatment Options for Controlling Type 2 Inflammation: Get an overview of available treatments, including biologic therapies specifically designed to target underlying inflammation pathways. Understand the role these medications play in improving quality of life.
• Practical Tips for Managing Symptoms at Home: Learn ways to reduce inflammation by identifying and minimizing triggers, allergy-proofing your environment, and adopting healthier lifestyle practices.

More episodes that will help you: 

• Ep. 101 What is Type 2 Inflammation
• Ep. 98 Food Allergy Treatment and Management
• Ep. 87 What biologic therapies are available for allergic conditions?
• Ep. 85 Navigating Biologic Therapy – What You Need to Know
• Ep. 78 Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria Treatments
• Ep. 56 Biologic Therapies for Asthma

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi and Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

#103 - Pediatric Type 2 Inflammation: can we slow or stop allergic conditions in children?

Can you slow down the atopic march and prevent kids from developing more allergic diseases?

Type 2 inflammation plays a central role in allergic diseases, which impact children from infancy through adulthood. From eczema and asthma to food allergies and allergic rhinitis, these conditions are all connected through an underlying immune response: Type 2 inflammation. But is there a way to prevent the progression of these diseases?

In this episode, Dr. Payel Gupta and Kortney are joined by Dr. Priya Bansal to explore how Type 2 inflammation manifests in children, the concept of the atopic march, and whether treatments like immunotherapy or biologics can alter the course of the diseases.

Many parents aren’t aware of the atopic march until their child starts developing multiple allergic conditions. Understanding how Type 2 inflammation progresses and when to intervene can be crucial in managing these diseases early. Dr. Bansal shares her expert insights on the best time to seek treatment and how biologics may help some children break the cycle of inflammation.

What we cover in our episode about type 2 inflammation in children

• Understanding Type 2 Inflammation in Children: Understand type 2 inflammation’s role in conditions like eczema, asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergies. Learn why children with one allergic condition often develop others over time.
• The Atopic March: Discover why some children with eczema go on to develop asthma and food allergies. Learn why early intervention can make a difference.
• Immunotherapy and Biologics: Can They Change the Course of Disease? Understand how allergy shots, OIT, SLIT and biologics work, when they are recommended, and whether they can stop or slow down the atopic march in children.
• When to See an Allergist & Parental Concerns About Treatment: Learn the signs that indicate your child may need an allergist evaluation. Plus, we address common concerns about aggressive treatment options, including steroids and biologics.
• Managing Type 2 Conditions at Home & School: Practical tips for parents navigating food allergic diseases.

Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi and Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.