A podcast bringing you easily digestible information on all things allergies, asthma eczema, and immunology
Episodes
Thursday Sep 05, 2024
Thursday Sep 05, 2024
What are biologic medications, and how can they help people with allergic diseases?
We discuss biologic medications with Dr. Berger, a leading expert in biologic therapy for allergic diseases. Since the first biologic was introduced in 2003, these treatments have advanced significantly. By targeting the root causes of inflammation, biologics offer a more precise, personalized approach to treating conditions like asthma and eczema. Unlike traditional medications, biologics are a breakthrough, opening the door to tailored care that improves patients' long-term symptom control and quality of life.
Dr. Berger explains biologic medications, how they work at a molecular level, and how they impact the immune system. As Kortney recently started biologic therapy, we also get a firsthand account of patients' decision-making process and concerns when considering biologic treatments. These innovative therapies not only control symptoms but can transform the daily lives of people living with chronic allergic diseases, providing hope for better, long-term outcomes.
What we cover in this episode about the basics of biologic medications:
- What is a biologic medication? Dr. Berger explains how biologic medications differ from traditional treatments by focusing on precision-based medicine, offering a revolutionary way to target specific aspects of the immune system.
- How biologic therapies target molecular inflammation: Learn how biologic treatments act on specific inflammatory molecules, offering hope for better control and relief for patients with severe asthma, eczema, and more.
- Do biologics suppress the immune system? We address common questions about biologic therapy, its effects on the immune system, and potential side effects.
- The evolution of biologic treatments. A look at how biologic medicine has advanced since 2003 and its role in reshaping asthma therapy and other allergic disease treatments, providing exciting new options for patients.
- Improving quality of life for allergic disease patients with biologics. We discuss how, for many, biologics have been life-changing.
- Steps for patients considering biologic treatment. Dr. Berger offers practical advice for patients interested in discussing biologic therapy with their healthcare providers.
About our biologic medication expert - Dr. Berger
Dr. William E. Berger is a past Clinical Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of California-Irvine and served as Medical Director of Southern California Research in Mission Viejo. He is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with a distinguished career, including roles as President of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology and as Medical Staff Allergist for the U.S. Olympic Swim Team. Dr. Berger has published over 200 peer-reviewed articles and authored books like Asthma for Dummies, focusing on allergy and asthma treatments. He is widely recognized as an expert in his field, frequently appearing on major media outlets like CNN and Good Morning America.
More resources about biologic therapy:
- https://biologicmeds.org/
- https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/
- https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/allergies/
- https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/food-allergies/
- https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-eczema/
This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi-Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode. While they support the show, all opinions are our own, and sponsorship doesn’t influence our content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.
Thursday Aug 22, 2024
Thursday Aug 22, 2024
There’s never been a better time to be a CSU patient, with cutting-edge therapies and revolutionary treatments just around the corner. As research accelerates, new and promising options that could significantly improve the quality of life for those living with Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria are coming to market.
In this episode, Dr. Matthew Zirwas joins us to discuss the latest advancements in treating CSU, offering invaluable insights into both current and emerging treatment options. With his extensive experience and patient-centred approach, Dr. Zirwas breaks down the complexities of CSU and highlights how these new therapies can make a real difference.
This podcast was made in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network. We thank Novartis for sponsoring this podcast.
What We Cover in Our Episode About Emerging Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria Treatments:
- How Dr. Zirwas explains CSU to his patients: Discover the patient-friendly explanations that help demystify CSU and empower patients to learn more about their disease.
- When to start with a biologic: Learn about the decision-making process for initiating biologic therapies like Xolair (omalizumab) and when they are most appropriate.
- The new medications coming to market: Get an overview of the latest advancements, including:
- Dupixent (dupilumab): A biologic administered via injection that targets key pathways in the inflammatory response.
- Remibrutinib: A BTK (Bruton tyrosine kinase) inhibitor available as a pill that blocks a crucial enzyme in mast cell activation.
- Barzolvolimab: A promising biologic that targets the C KIT receptor on mast cells to reduce their number.
- Shared decision-making with these medications: Explore strategies for choosing the most appropriate treatment in a rapidly evolving therapeutic landscape.
- Research into the underlying cause of CSU: What’s happening on the research front to uncover the root causes of CSU.
About Our Guest
Dr. Matthew Zirwas, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and a nationally recognized expert in allergy patch testing, psoriasis, and eczema. He founded the Bexley Dermatology Research Clinic, offering patients access to the latest treatment options before they are widely available. Dr. Zirwas also serves as a dermatologic advisor for several companies, including ALL Laundry Detergent and Cerave, and contributes to Women’s Health Magazine. Learn more about Dr. Zirwas.
More resources about chronic spontaneous urticaria:
- Chronic Urticaria Management, Resources & Glossary of Terms: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/management-and-resources/
- What is Chronic Urticaria: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/
- More information about Omalizumab (Xolair): https://www.xolair.com/chronic-spontaneous-urticaria.html
Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.
Thursday Aug 15, 2024
Thursday Aug 15, 2024
Did you know that the month of September sees a drastic rise in asthma attacks and hospitalizations?
Dr. G and Kortney delve into the challenges that asthmatics face during the fall season, also known as "peak week." Despite what the name suggests, asthma cases start to rise in the second week of September and continue into early October before returning to normal levels.
We begin by defining asthma and then explore why asthma attacks are more prevalent in September. We discuss the role of germs and viruses, indoor and outdoor allergens, and cold weather in exacerbating asthma symptoms. Dr. G also shares tips on how to lessen your exposure to these triggers. Additionally, we cover the importance of having an asthma action plan and the significance of well-controlled asthma.
Dr. G also discusses the financial aspects of asthma management and offers advice on how to discuss this with your doctor.
>>>> Listener survey: https://forms.gle/6Pb2PGq6nuVReasZ6
What we cover in our episode about the rise in September asthma attacks
- Why September is Peak Asthma Season: Explore why asthma attacks increase in the fall and what you can do to prepare.
- The Role of Germs and Viruses in Asthma: Understand how illnesses can trigger asthma and learn tips for staying healthy.
- Indoor and Outdoor Allergens: Discover how common allergens like dust mites, pet dander, ragweed, and mold can affect asthma, and what you can do to limit exposure.
- Preparing for Peak Week: Essential steps to take before asthma season hits, including scheduling doctor visits and creating an action plan.
- Asthma Management Tips for Different Age Groups: Advice for school-aged children and elderly patients to ensure they receive the best care.
More resources about asthma peak week:
- Asthma and Allergy Forecast: pollen and allergen count https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/weather/
- 10 Ways to Stay Healthy During the September Asthma Peak Week https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/news/10-ways-to-stay-healthy-during-september-asthma-peak/
- Seasonal allergies: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/news/seasonal-allergies/
- Asthma attack: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/asthma-attack/
- What if I Can’t Afford My Asthma Medication? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/what-if-i-cant-afford-my-asthma-medication/
- Asthma Management and Control (2:2:1 Rule) https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/asthma-management-and-control/
- AirQ https://www.airqscore.com/en/main-page.html
- ACT Test https://www.asthmacontroltest.com/welcome/
We want to thank AstraZeneca for sponsoring this episode.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.
Thursday Aug 01, 2024
Thursday Aug 01, 2024
This episode is a quick-fire round covering the misunderstood aspects of chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), a condition that perplexes many due to its spontaneous nature. With over 1.7 million people affected, it's more common than you might think and deserves a closer look. Despite its prevalence, many misconceptions persist about what causes CSU, its symptoms, and how it can be treated.
Kortney and Dr. Gupta tackle the myths and misconceptions around CSU. Unpacking its impacts on quality of life and the challenges those living with the condition face. They explore the realities of living with CSU, from the pervasive itch to the emotional toll it can take. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this episode offers valuable insights into the realities of managing CSU.
This podcast was made in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network. We thank Novartis for sponsoring this podcast.
The chronic spontaneous urticaria myths and misconceptions we cover in our episode
- CSU is caused by allergies.
- CSU is contagious.
- CSU is a rare condition.
- CSU is not a serious condition.
- Stress is the main cause of CSU.
- CSU only affects the skin.
- CSU will go away quickly.
- There isn’t any treatment for chronic hives.
- Antihistamines are the only treatment for CSU.
- Changing your diet will help CSU.
- CSU can be cured.
- Once CSU goes away, it will never come back again.
- Men and women are equally affected by CSU.
- You can always pinpoint the exact cause of hives in patients with CSU.
- Autoimmune conditions are more common in people with CSU.
- Scratching hives is harmless.
- Once my hives are controlled, I need to be on the medication forever.
- All hives look the same.
- Only adults get CSU.
- CSU hives are always accompanied by other allergic symptoms like swelling or difficulty breathing.
- Having CSU doesn’t affect quality of life.
- The itch in CSU is not a big deal.
- Allergy testing will help me figure out why I have CSU.
More resources about chronic spontaneous urticaria:
- Chronic Urticaria Management, Resources & Glossary of Terms: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/management-and-resources/
- What is Chronic Urticaria: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/
- More information about Omalizumab (Xolair): https://www.xolair.com/chronic-spontaneous-urticaria.html
Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.
Thursday Jul 18, 2024
Thursday Jul 18, 2024
Imagine being so itchy that you’d consider cutting off your skin just for relief. That’s what it can be like living with chronic spontaneous urticaria.
We sit down with Heather, a patient living with chronic spontaneous urticaria, as she candidly shares her experiences from the initial diagnosis to navigating the complex landscape of treatments and mental health support. Her story sheds light on the day-to-day struggles and triumphs of managing CSU, offering hope and practical advice for those in similar situations.
Dr. G unpacks Heather's diagnosis and treatment journey, including antihistamines and Omalizumab. Dr. G also highlights the importance of managing mental health. Kortney shares her experience of itch and, with Heather, discusses the impact of chronic itching on quality of life and how to explain this to friends and family.
What we cover in our episode about living with chronic spontaneous urticaria
- Heather's Journey with CSU: Heather shares her initial diagnosis and the rollercoaster of emotions and challenges that followed.
- Anaphylaxis vs. CSU: Understanding the critical differences between these two conditions.
- Finding the Right Treatment Plan: The journey to discovering effective medications like antihistamines and the injectable - Omalizumab (Xolair).
- Mental Health Support: The importance of therapy and online resources in managing life with CSU.
- Management strategies: Heather shares what works for her in managing exacerbating situations.
- Advice for New Patients: Heather offers valuable advice for those beginning their CSU journey.
More resources about chronic spontaneous urticaria:
- Chronic Urticaria Management, Resources & Glossary of Terms: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/management-and-resources/
- What is Chronic Urticaria: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/
- More information about Omalizumab (Xolair): https://www.xolair.com/chronic-spontaneous-urticaria.html
- Episode Heather talks about where she learned to call her condition Lynda: https://www.itchpodcast.com/episodes/71-living-with-mastocytosis
Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.
Friday Jul 05, 2024
Friday Jul 05, 2024
Yes, there are more options than antihistamines to treat chronic spontaneous urticaria. We dive into them!
Dr. Sheila Gogate joins us to discuss the chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) treatments currently available for patients. Dr. Shaila Gogate outlines the treatment journey for CSU with an emphasis on shared decision-making.
This episode emphasizes the importance of following treatment guidelines and adjusting medications as needed. We discuss the available treatments for urticaria, including antihistamines, omalizumab (Xolair for hives), and Cyclosporine. The episode also explores the journey of managing CSU symptoms through both medical and non-medical approaches.
What we cover in our episode about chronic spontaneous urticaria treatments
- Treatment Path and Guidelines: Overview of doctors' steps to treat CSU. The importance of shared decision-making in the treatment plan.
- Antihistamines: Role of oral antihistamines and H2 blockers in managing hives, dosing options, side effects, when to change medications, and how to choose the right antihistamine.
- Advanced Treatments: If antihistamines fail, the following steps include omalizumab (Xolair) injections or Cyclosporine. An overview of both dosing options and side effects.
- Emerging Therapies: Treatments like Remibrutinib and Dupilumab.
- Quality of Life and Non-Medical Management: The Urticaria Activity Score (UAS7). Mental health screening for CSU patients and strategies like stress reduction and if special diets are effective.
About our guest, Dr. Shaila Gogate
Dr. Shaila Gogate, board-certified by the American Board of Allergy & Immunology, has been with Colorado Allergy & Asthma Centers since 2014. She completed her medical education at Chicago Medical School, her residency at Washington University, and her fellowship at National Jewish Health in Denver. Dr. Gogate has served as an Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado, has extensive clinical research experience, and emphasizes strong patient-provider communication to develop effective treatment plans.
More resources about chronic spontaneous urticaria:
- Chronic Urticaria Management, Resources & Glossary of Terms: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/management-and-resources/
- What is Chronic Urticaria: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/
- How Mast Cells Work Video_ mast cell video - explanation of mast cell (07:20): https://youtu.be/OF7tBIvMK_0?si=osJaIpTrivUP1Owr
- Urticaria Activity Score (uas7): https://www.mdcalc.com/calc/10226/urticaria-activity-score-uas
More information about XOlair: https://www.xolair.com/chronic-spontaneous-urticaria.html
Thursday Jun 27, 2024
Thursday Jun 27, 2024
How is the black community impacted by food allergies?
Dr. Carla Davis joins Dr. G and Kortney to discuss the impact of social determinants of health on food allergy outcomes within the Black community. Dr. Davis highlights historical factors like redlining and insurance disparities that exacerbate health disparities, resulting in higher prevalence rates of food allergies and multiple allergies among Black patients. These disparities often lead to increased emergency room visits and barriers to accessing allergen-free foods, compounded by socioeconomic challenges and food insecurity.
Dr. Davis also underscores how cultural differences significantly influence the management of food allergies within families, particularly during gatherings, and emphasizes the crucial role of media representation in raising awareness and promoting acceptance.
We discuss the critical need for increased Black representation in research trials, recognizing the challenges posed by longstanding mistrust in the medical community among Black patients.
Key Points Covered in This Episode:
- Health Disparities: Social factors significantly impact food allergy outcomes in the Black community.
- Limited Healthcare Access: Redlining and insurance disparities restrict healthcare access, worsening health outcomes.
- Food Insecurity: Challenges in accessing allergen-free foods are heightened by food insecurities and food deserts.
- Cultural Factors in Food Allergy Management: Cultural influences play a crucial role in managing food allergies within families.
- Resources for Food Allergies: Essential support from food banks and allergy organizations for managing allergies and food insecurity.
- Communication Tips for Patients: Practical advice for effective communication and advocacy with healthcare providers.
- Historical Mistrust of the Medical Community: Historical discrimination contributes to mistrust in healthcare, affecting access and outcomes.
Helpful Resources
- Health Disparities in Allergy, Asthma and Immunologic Diseases (New Webinar July 16, 2024): https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/webinars-updates/health-disparities-diseases/
- Black People Like Me Virtual Conference Series 2024: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/trusted-messengers-project/black-people-like-me-2024/
- Food Allergy Resources: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/allergies/
- School Plans for Students with Food Allergies: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/news/school-plans-students-food-allergies/
Food Equality Initiative - Food Allergy Friendly Food Bank Resource: https://www.foodequalityinitiative.org/
Thursday Jun 20, 2024
Thursday Jun 20, 2024
How do you know if your hives are chronic spontaneous urticaria?
Join Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta in the second episode of this chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) series as they delve into the diagnostic journey of CSU.
Have you wondered if the path to a chronic spontaneous urticaria diagnosis is long? CSU can feel like a very complex disease to diagnose due to the lack of identifiable triggers, but this episode breaks down the steps healthcare professionals take to diagnose CSU.
Dr. G clarifies how allergists' and dermatologists' roles differ in diagnosing CSU. The episode emphasizes the importance of a detailed medical history and the tests involved in ruling out other conditions. It also describes the journey of determining CSU from other skin and allergic reactions through meticulous evaluation and specific testing methods.
What we cover in our episode about diagnosing Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria:
- Introduction to CSU Diagnosis: CSU has no identifiable triggers, making diagnosis a process of elimination.
- Role of Specialists: Patients often start their diagnosis journey at urgent care, after which they consult allergists and dermatologists depending on the severity and symptoms of hives.
- Detailed Medical History: Essential questions cover medications, infections, travel history, and other health changes to rule out underlying causes.
- Physical Examination: Doctors check if hives are “blanchable” to differentiate from other conditions like vasculitis.
- Ruling out other Conditions: This involves evaluating other conditions in which hives are a symptom, such as mast cell disease or various autoimmune diseases.
- Necessary Tests: Doctor’s apprehension about doing a food allergy test unless necessary. Other tests include looking at blood count (CBC with differential) and inflammation (ESR or CRP).
More resources about chronic spontaneous urticaria:
- Chronic Urticaria Management, Resources & Glossary of Terms: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/management-and-resources/
- What is Chronic Urticaria: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticari
This episode is produced in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network. We want to thank Novartis for sponsoring this episode.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.
Thursday Jun 06, 2024
Thursday Jun 06, 2024
Do you get hives and have no clue why? Then this episode is for you!
Join Kortney and Dr. Gupta as they unpack chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) in a six-part series. You may also have heard of this condition called chronic idiopathic urticaria or spontaneous urticaria.
In this first episode, Kortney and Dr. Gupta dive into the nitty gritty of chronic spontaneous urticaria. They define the medical term "urticaria," commonly known as hives, and discuss how CSU differs from other forms of urticaria. They dive into the symptoms, including the itchy and transient nature of hives, and emphasize that CSU can vary in appearance depending on skin tone.
What may seem complicated in chronic spontaneous urticaria is that there are no triggers. Instead, Dr. G walks us through the factors that may be culprits to CSU flares, such as stress and certain medications, and she highlights the impact of autoimmune conditions on CSU prevalence.
What we cover in our episode about chronic spontaneous urticaria:
- Definition and symptoms of urticaria (hives)
- Differences between chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) and chronic inducible urticaria (CINDU)
- The definition of chronic spontaneous urticaria and its symptoms
- The role of histamine in hives
- The mechanisms of itch and why scratching feels so good
- Factors that can exacerbate chronic spontaneous urticaria
- Populations most affected by chronic spontaneous urticaria
- The average duration of CSU symptoms
- Is chronic spontaneous urticaria curable
More resources about chronic spontaneous urticaria:
- Chronic Urticaria Management, Resources & Glossary of Terms: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/management-and-resources/
- What is Chronic Urticaria: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/chronic-urticaria/
- Episode 39: urticaria what causes hives? https://www.itchpodcast.com/episodes/39-urticaria
This episode is produced in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. We thank Novartis for sponsoring this episode and the series.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.
Wednesday May 08, 2024
Wednesday May 08, 2024
As temperatures rise and weather patterns become more unpredictable, the effects of climate change on respiratory health become even more noticeable.
Dr. Stephanie Lovinsky-Desir, an expert in respiratory health, joins Dr. G and Kortney to discuss how climate change exacerbates respiratory conditions like asthma, particularly affecting vulnerable populations.
The episode explores why we should consider the connection between climate change and asthma. Understanding the mechanisms behind it is crucial. Dr. Lovinsky-Desir explains how increased temperatures lead to higher levels of air pollution and create “heat islands" in urban areas. Heat islands are urban areas that are significantly warmer than their surrounding rural areas due to human activities. These islands intensify health risks by trapping heat and pollutants, worsening air quality and increasing respiratory distress.
Dr. Lovinsky-Desir and Dr. G share practical measures that are easy to implement and can significantly help us navigate poor air quality. These include wearing masks during high pollution and monitoring air quality through initiatives like the State of the Air Report or your weather app. She also highlights the role of organizations like the American Lung Association in providing resources and support for improving indoor air quality.
We hope this episode helps you better understand climate change's impact on air quality, the overall environment, and lung health. Hopefully, you can take meaningful steps towards a healthier future for all. If you are in doubt about the impacts of climate change, this episode is for you!
What we cover in our about climate change, air pollution and lung health
- The relationship between air pollution, air quality and climate change
- The impact of climate change on season allergies
- The effect of air quality on lung health
- The populations most impacted by poor air quality
- Poor housing and its effects on lung health
- Programs and resources help make housing healthier
- What you can do to keep your lungs safe
- How to explain to someone why they need to care about climate change and asthma
Helpful links
- More about our sponsor, Chiesi: https://www.chiesiusa.com/
- Pollen Report from Allergy Asthma Network: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/weather/
- State of the Air Report from The Lung Association: https://www.lung.org/research/sota
- Tips to Manage Asthma and Allergies Caused by Climate Change: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/news/climate-change-what-you-can/
- Lifestyle Changes to Manage Asthma: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/lifestyle-changes-to-manage-asthma/