The Itch: Allergies, Asthma, Eczema & Immunology

Have you ever searched for information on mast cell disease only to be overwhelmed by alarming topics like cancer and stem cell transplants? Then this episode is for you! Our guest, Dr. Marina Kremyanskaya, joins hosts Dr. G and Kortney to provide insight into the progression of systemic mastocytosis and the available treatment options to improve quality of life and extend lifespan. Dr. Kremyanskaya distinguishes between indolent and aggressive systemic mastocytosis, shedding light on warning signs indicating disease progression. She offers a detailed exploration of treatment approaches for aggressive mastocytosis, highlighting the evolving treatment plan and differing prognosis from indolent cases. Additionally, Dr. Kremyanskayaa delves into the concept of myeloid malignancy, providing insight into the more challenging aspects of advanced systemic mastocytosis progression. We also dive into stem cell transplants as a potential cure for advanced systemic mastocytosis. Dr. Kremyanskaya explains why this option is not immediately pursued due to the complexity of the procedure and the risk of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD), a potential complication associated with stem cell transplants. What we cover in this episode about advanced systemic mastocytosis: Resources about mast cell disease: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/https://tmsforacure.org/

Why talk to a hematologist about mast cell disease and systemic mastocytosis treatment? Dr. Douglas Tremblay, a leading hematologist, joins Dr. G and Kortney to discuss the role of a hematologist-oncologist in diagnosing and treating mastocytosis. We discuss bone marrow's vital role in diagnosing and treating systemic mastocytosis. Dr. Tremblay discusses the latest KIT inhibitors, a promising group of medications, and explains the difference between indolent and advanced systemic mastocytosis. He clarifies how KIT inhibitors work and emphasizes the importance of managing side effects. Finally, Dr. Tremblay provides insights into the future of KIT inhibitor approval and explores the possibility of participating in a clinical trial for Bezulastinib. What we cover in this episode about treating systemic mastocytosis: Resources about mast cell disease: Dr. Tremblay: https://profiles.mountsinai.org/douglas-a-tremblay Dr. Tremblay’s email: douglas.tremblay@mssm.edu Mast Cell Disease Overview: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/ What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/ What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/ The Mast Cell Disease Society: https://tmsforacure.org/ Current studies enrolling patients: https://tmsforacure.org/clinical-trials/

What is it like when an unpredictable disease like systemic mastocytosis forces you to change the trajectory of your life? As we continue to unpack mast cell disease, Dr. G and Kortney wanted to get the patient's perspective on living with such a complex disease. Tammie joins the podcast to discuss her journey battling mastocytosis, a rare condition affecting mast cells in the body. If you ever feel alone on your chronic health journey, know you aren’t! Tammie's resilience and wisdom serve as a beacon of hope. We hope this inspires you to approach your health journey with determination and a sense of community. What we cover in this episode: Tammie’s mastocytosis journey The challenges of not getting a proper diagnosis The pros and cons of being able to google medical conditions What do to when a doctor does not want to take you on as a patient How Tammie separates the disease from her life How do you navigate work with a chronic disease? Working with a mental health team How do you ask your family/friends for help Patient's relationship with their healthcare team Pros and cons of an online community for chronic disease and the importance of a real-life community Connect with Tammie online: https://www.tiktok.com/@rachelllargentphillipshttps://www.instagram.com/tammie_rachell/ Resources about mast cell disease: Mast Cell Disease Overview: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/ What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/ What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/ The Mast Cell Disease Society: https://tmsforacure.org/

Can a low-histamine diet help with mast cell disease? Why is stress a big trigger for mast cell disease? Dr. Milner joins us again to discuss two hot topics in managing mast cell disease. We start by demystifying the low histamine diet and sharing when appropriate. The answer may be different from what you expect or want to hear. We also talk about stress, a topic we are learning impacts so many chronic diseases, especially those related to mast cells. Stress can worsen symptoms, and in this episode, both doctors emphasize the importance of stress management techniques. What we cover in this episode about low histamine diet and stress management More resources about mast cell disease: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/ https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/ https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/ https://tmsforacure.org/

Where do you begin with mast cell disease treatment when there is such variation among patients? Dr. Milner is back with us to discuss the difficulties in treating mast cell activation syndrome and mastocytosis. We will discuss the different approaches to treating mast cell disease and the medications used for mastocytosis treatment. Since no single treatment plan works for everyone, we will explore multiple strategies that can be helpful in managing this condition. A note: when you hear MCAS mentioned, it stands for Mast Cell Activation Syndrome. What we cover in our episode about treating mast cell diseases: What are the steps taken to treat mast cell diseases? Histamine blockers: antihistamines for mast cell disease and H2 blockers Mast cell stabilizers: Cromolyn and Ketotifen Xolair Other medications that have been used but not recommended: aspirin, steroids, Singulair Epinephrine and anaphylaxis Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) for Mastocytosis: Avapritinib, Midostaurin Safety concerns and side effects of Tyrosine kinase inhibitors Multidisciplinary approach to managing mast cell disease About our guest - Dr. Josh Milner Joshua Milner, MD, is a renowned leader in discovering and understanding genetic diseases leading to allergic symptoms, including Hereditary Alpha Tryptasemia Syndrome, PLAID, PGM3 deficiency, ERBIN mutation, and others. With a background in biology from MIT and an MD with distinction in immunology from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Dr. Milner has extensive experience in pediatrics and allergy and immunology, serving as chief of the Laboratory of Allergic Diseases at NIAID. His vision is to leverage genetic variation to improve diagnosis and care for patients with allergic diseases through comprehensive genetic sequencing and functional studies, aiming for personalized medicine and interdisciplinary collaboration in pediatric allergy, immunology, and rheumatology. More about Dr. Milner: https://www.pediatrics.columbia.edu/profile/joshua-milner-md More resources about mast cell disease: Mast Cell Disease Overview: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/ What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/ What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/ The Mast Cell Disease Society: https://tmsforacure.org/ FDA Approves AYVAKIT® (avapritinib) as the First and Only Treatment for Indolent Systemic Mastocytosis: https://ir.blueprintmedicines.com/news-releases/news-release-details/fda-approves-ayvakitr-avapritinib-first-and-only-treatment

Our episode on eyelash allergies was so interesting we had to bring you more from our favorite eye Doc, Dr. Luk. We delve into the fascinating world of eyelash health and hygiene, from the importance of cleanliness to the latest trends like eyelash serums and magnetic extensions. We discuss the importance of hygiene, eyelash serums, and magnetic eyelash extensions. What we cover in this episode on how to clean eyelash extensions: Eyegiene: why you need to clean your eyelashes How to clean your eyelid margin How often should you clean your eyelid margins How to know if it is eczema or blepharitis What to consider when using lash serums Are magnetic eyelash extensions a better alternative to traditional eyelash extensions?

Put on your detective hat because we will be diving into how to diagnose mast cell disease! Dr. G and Kortney are joined by Dr. Josh Milner, one of the top experts in the field of mast cell disease, as they dive into the complexities of diagnosing mast cell disorders, focusing on cases of unexplained anaphylaxis and using this as our guide to understanding all of the tests that doctors do to figure out what is happening with your mast cells. From histories to blood and urine tests to Darier's sign, bone marrow biopsies and more, we dig into the many tests needed for the detective work diagnosing mast cell disease. We learn that a nuanced approach is required to diagnose mast cell disorders and the importance of thorough evaluation to differentiate between potential causes. This podcast was made in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network. We thank Blueprint Medicines for sponsoring this podcast. What we cover in our episode about diagnosing mast cell disease: Unexplained anaphylaxis could be linked to mast cell disorders. Diagnostic tools: Blood tryptase test (fast but time-sensitive) Urine metabolite tests (easier, longer window) Skin rash assessment (urticaria pigmentosa) Bone marrow biopsy (serious cases) Symptoms: Sudden episodes, chronic issues like fatigue, depression. About our guest - Dr. Josh Milner Joshua Milner, MD, is a renowned leader in discovering and understanding genetic diseases leading to allergic symptoms, including Hereditary Alpha Tryptasemia Syndrome, PLAID, PGM3 deficiency, ERBIN mutation, and others. With a background in biology from MIT and an MD with distinction in immunology from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Dr. Milner has extensive experience in pediatrics and allergy and immunology, serving as chief of the Laboratory of Allergic Diseases at NIAID. His vision is to leverage genetic variation to improve diagnosis and care for patients with allergic diseases through comprehensive genetic sequencing and functional studies, aiming for personalized medicine and interdisciplinary collaboration in pediatric allergy, immunology, and rheumatology. More about Dr. Milner: https://www.pediatrics.columbia.edu/profile/joshua-milner-md More resources about mast cell disease: Mast Cell Disease Overview: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/ What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/ What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/ The Mast Cell Disease Society: https://tmsforacure.org/

Have you ever wondered why your doctor puts their membership in their bios? Why is it relevant to a patient that your allergist is a member of the ACAAI? This podcast is made possible through Allergy & Asthma Network’s partnership with the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Dr. G and Kortney had the special privilege of interviewing Dr. Gailen Marshall, the president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI). He explains what the ACAAI, also known as the College, does and why this matters to patients. We learn about the resources provided by the College, which offer patients invaluable support in managing their allergies. From accessing specialized care through the "Find an Allergist" tool to engaging with the ACAAI's educational materials and advocacy opportunities, patients are empowered to take control of their treatment journey. We also dive into Dr. Gailen Marshall's work in psychoneuroimmunology, which sheds light on how both external and internal environments impact allergic reactions. We touch upon Dr. Marshall's Presidential Initiative, CAAPER, which bridges the gap between community and academic allergists, driving innovation in patient treatment. As allergy research continues to advance, Dr. Marshall's leadership underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and patient-centred care in navigating the complexities of allergic diseases. What we cover in the episode About our guest, Dr. Marshall Gailen D. Marshall, Jr. MD, PhD, FACP, is the president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and holds distinguished roles as Chair of Allergy and Immunology, Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, Vice Chair for Research, Director of the Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, and Chief of the Laboratory of Behavioral Immunology Research at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. With a background in both Immunology and Medicine from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston and extensive training at institutions like the University of Iowa and the University of Tennessee at Memphis, Dr. Marshall is renowned for his expertise in integrative approaches to managing inflammatory diseases. His research delves into the impact of psychological stress and environmental factors on immune responses, aiming to identify biomarkers for stress susceptibility. With over 200 publications and active engagement as a speaker in regional, national, and international forums, Dr. Marshall also served as Editor-in-chief of the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, showcasing his leadership in the field. Additionally, he plays a vital role in professional societies like the Southern Society for Clinical Investigation, where he serves as Secretary-Treasurer and contributes to various committees, highlighting his commitment to advancing clinical research and education.

Have you ever considered whether your nasal congestion, IBS, brain fog, and hives are related? This podcast was made in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network. We thank Blueprint Medicines for sponsoring this podcast. Dr. Anne Maitland joins us as we delve into the complex world of mast cell disease. From the confusing range of symptoms to the unpredictable nature of each person's experience, we unravel the mysteries that make mast cell disorders so uniquely difficult to tackle. Dr. Maitland is an expert in allergy and immunology and sheds light on the diverse manifestations of mast cell dysfunction, from headaches and nasal congestion to gastrointestinal issues and skin reactions like hives.Dr. Maitland emphasizes the importance of recognizing mast cell dysfunction's impact across different organs for accurate diagnosis and management. What we cover in our episode about mast cell disease: Symptoms of mast cell disease How to connect the dots of mast cell disease symptoms What is a sign that your symptoms are related to mast cells The job of mast cells and their scientific history Is an anaphylactic reaction a mast cell disease? What triggers mast cell disease? Mast cell targetted medications and how this can hide your symptoms About our guest - Dr. Maitland Dr. Maitland is a highly respected physician and a Fellow of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. She was named New York Times' Super Doctors in 2011 and one of America's Top 21 Women's Doctors by Lifescript.com in 2009. Dr. Maitland is actively involved in creating awareness of immune-mediated disorders and researches to enhance treatments for allergies, asthma, and recurrent infections. She specializes in allergic skin disorders, allergic rhinitis, drug allergies, food allergies/sensitivities, asthma, and recurrent infections. Dr. Maitland holds an MD and PhD from the University of Pennsylvania and completed her residency in Internal Medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston. She also pursued a Fellowship in Allergy and Immunology at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. More about Dr. Maitland: https://www.metrodora.co/anne-maitland https://www.drannemaitland.net/dr-anne-maitland More resources about mast cell disease: Mast Cell Disease page: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/ What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/ What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/ The Mast Cell Disease Society: https://tmsforacure.org/

Are you allergic to your eyelash extensions? Eyelash extensions have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a way to achieve fuller, longer lashes without the hassle of applying mascara every day. However, some potential risks are associated with eyelash extensions, including allergic reactions. Dr. Janice Luk joins Dr. G and Kortney to discuss eyelash extensions and what happens when things go wrong. We dive into eyelash extension allergies and contact dermatitis, what the reactions look like, how to treat the reactions best and why you need to take care of your biofilm. No one wants to play with their vision or have an allergic reaction around the eye; this episode will help you better understand what could happen and how to prepare your lash extensions properly. What we cover on eyelash extension allergies: What are eyelash extensions? How eyelash extensions differ from what you can do at home What does the allergic reaction to eyelash extensions look like? Contact dermatitis versus an IgE-mediated allergic reaction What glues are being used, and what would cause the reaction? Symptoms and treatment for a lash extension allergy Why you don't want to use over-the-counter medication for your eyes The importance of keeping a clean biofilm Eyegiene Traction alopecia caused by lash extensions When should you seek medical attention for eyelash extension reactions What is the difference between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist

The basic science of mast cells is the first episode in our 6-part series exploring Mast cell diseases. To start the series, we explore the intricate workings of mast cells by diving into how they work and what happens when something is off balance. Have you ever wondered what releases histamine and how this happens? Then this episode is for you! What we cover in our episode about mast cell disease: What are mast cells, and what do they do? What are the different types of mast cell diseases? Mastocytosis Mast Cell Activation Syndrome Hereditary Alpha-tryptasemia The 7 types of mastocytosis The cause of mast cell disease KIT gene mutation in Mastocytosis More resources about mast cell disease: Mast Cell Disease page: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/ What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/ What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/ We thank Blueprint Medicines for sponsoring this podcast.

Fear and anxiety are very common when managing food allergies and anaphylaxis. It can come from the unknown, where the allergen can show up. It can also come from the way your allergies are discussed. How do you motivate patients to use their epinephrine without causing crippling anxiety? Dr Golden joins us as we explore the delicate balance of doctors using fear to underscore the urgency of administering epinephrine during anaphylaxis. We discuss the crucial interplay between fear and anxiety, emphasizing the need for a sensitive approach to motivate patients to use their epinephrine without overwhelming those already grappling with anxiety. We discuss the mind-body connection and the similarities between anxiety attacks and allergic reactions when talking about anxiety caused by the fear of having an anaphylactic reaction. Dr. Golden also provides more information about the risk and co-factors associated with severe anaphylaxis. What we cover in this episode about anxiety related to anaphylaxis: Helpful links: Dr. David Goldenhttps://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/food-allergies/https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-if-i-cant-afford-my-epinephrine/https://aquestive.com/anaphylm/

Is a needle-free option for administering epinephrine coming out? Yes! Dr. Golden joins us again in this episode to explore the new products in development for administering epinephrine. What we cover in our episode about anaphylaxis and epinephrine: The new types of ways to administer epinephrine: Inhaler Nose spray Sublingual film Why it has been challenging to find alternative ways to administer epinephrine other than an autoinjector. How do we know the new forms of delivery will work? How are companies proving that the new delivery method will work like the auto-injectors do? How will studies be done to show the FDA that the new methods should be approved for patients to use? Why do we need new ways to administer epinephrine? Will there be hesitation to use the new forms of epinephrine delivery? The importance of having doctors on board with these new forms of delivery. More Resources about anaphylaxis and epinephrine: More about our guest Dr. David Golden More about Anaphylaxis: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/ More about Epinephrine: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/ What if I can’t afford my epinephrine? Learn more here: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-if-i-cant-afford-my-epinephrine/ We want to thank Aquestive for sponsoring this episode. Listen to episode 59 for more information on Anaphylaxis and Epinephrine

Biologic medications are supposed to help you live your life as normally as possible, but still, one has to wonder, can you travel while taking biologic medicines? After releasing the episode on biologics for asthma, Dr. G and Kortney decided to explore how to travel while on a biologic successfully. They unpack what considerations patients need to take when planning their trip. What we cover in our episode about traveling while taking a biologic medication More about biologics, check out episode 56: https://www.itchpodcast.com/episodes/56-asthma-biologics

Have you ever wondered if it's anaphylaxis or just a severe allergic reaction? And how do you know when to use epinephrine? Diagnosing anaphylaxis can be challenging, and in this episode, we dive into this topic with our guest, Dr. David Golden. What we cover in this episode: Helpful links: Dr. David Golden https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/ https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/ https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-if-i-cant-afford-my-epinephrine/

In the second episode of the Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovations Podcast Series, Dr. G and Kortney dive into the critical topic of controlled and uncontrolled asthma. They shed light on various aspects of asthma, including its types, severity levels, medications, and the importance of asthma action plans. This episode is especially important to our hosts as asthma has personally impacted them. What we cover about controlled asthma: A quick review of asthma Types and severity levels of asthma Asthma can manifest in various forms, including: Allergic asthma (triggered by allergens). Non-allergic asthma (triggered by factors other than allergens). Occupational asthma (caused by workplace exposure). Exercise-induced asthma. Cough-variant asthma (primarily chronic cough). Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD). Late-onset asthma (developing in adulthood). Eosinophilic asthma (inflammation-related). Asthma can be categorized as mild, moderate, or severe based on symptoms and lung function tests. Severity impacts treatment strategies. Medications for asthma management Rescue or emergency medication (for mild asthma). Controller medication (for moderate to severe asthma). Controller medications include inhaled steroids, other medications, and biologics for severe cases. Assessing asthma control Asthma control is evaluated based on the "Rule of 2s". If you have two or more of the following, your asthma may not be controlled; Symptoms more than two days a week. Quick-relief medication usage more than two times a week. Nighttime awakenings due to asthma more than two times a month. Asthma exacerbations require oral steroids twice a year. What is good asthma control, and why is this important The long-term effects of uncontrolled asthma Asthma Peak Week. Creating an asthma action plan Working with healthcare providers and asthma coaches Resources to help you with your asthma control: Asthma Management and Control: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/asthma-management-and-control/ Asthma Action Plan: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/asthma-action-plan/ This page is great because it has multiple types of Asthma Action Plans. Infographic about asthma peak in September: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/images/Asthma/September_Asthma_Peak_July2023v1.pdf Asthma Coach: www. AsthmaCoach.org and https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/free-asthma-coach-program/. Lifestyle Changes to Manage Asthma: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/lifestyle-changes-to-manage-asthma/ Biologic medications: www.BiologicMeds.org Type 2 Inflammation: eosasthma.org https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/news/when-asthma-more-than-asthma-type-inflammation/

Itchy, watery eyes? It may be an allergy that only impacts your eyes! Dr. Luk joins Dr. G and Kortney to discuss ocular allergies, which are allergic reactions that affect the eyes. Ocular allergies are common and can cause significant discomfort and impaired vision. However, many people are unaware of the different types of ocular allergies, the treatments available, or the importance of prevention. If you always find yourself with itchy, red and watery eyes or around certain things, this episode is for you! What we cover about ocular allergies: The difference between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist Ocular allergy - what is this, and how is it different from systemic allergies? The different types of ocular allergies: Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis Perennial allergic conjunctivitis Vernal keratoconjunctivitis Atopic keratoconjunctivitis Treatment options for ocular allergies The dangers of rubbing your eyes and what to do instead All you need to know about eye drops More about ocular eye allergy expert: Dr. Janice Luk Dr. Janice Luk is a Toronto native who graduated with honors from the Doctor of Optometry and Bachelor of Science programs at the University of Waterloo. She is passionate about expanding her knowledge and bridging the gap between ocular aesthetics and dry eye disease. Janice communicates openly with her patients and volunteers with organizations like VOSH and Fighting Blindness Canada. She is an active member of multiple optometry associations. Connect with her: https://www.instagram.com/ilukateyes/

Part of the series: Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovations Podcast This podcast was made in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network, with funding support from AstraZeneca. In this episode, we explore a new form of asthma treatment, Biologics. These innovative treatments offer targeted relief by addressing the underlying causes of asthma, leading to improved symptom control and a better quality of life. Dr. G and Kortney discuss the current biologics on the market for asthma treatment. As this is a true deep dive, we have provided some more information about the Biologics discussed to help you build a better understanding. We have included images and graphs you can use when listening to the episode. What we cover in this episode: Helpful links: Images and graphs discussed in this episode: www.itchpodcast.com/episodes/56-asthma-biologics A look at biologics in more depth: www.biologicmeds.org More about type 2 inflammation: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/news/when-asthma-more-than-asthma-type-inflammation/

Breaking down the facts behind a bee sting allergy and more! In this episode, we delve into the world of venom allergies, focusing on allergic reactions caused by flying insects and fire ants. Our hosts are joined by Dr. Farah Khan, who shares her valuable expertise, in explaining the underlying mechanisms of allergic reactions to venom allergies. What we cover in this episode: More information about this episode can be found here: www.itchpodcast.com/episodes/55-venom-allergy

What is early allergen introduction for babies? Are you still confused about when to feed your baby allergens? Over the past few decades, there has been quite a shift in thinking about the early introduction of food allergens for babies, so your confusion is wholly justified. Dr. G dives into this exact topic and talks to two professionals, Meenal Lele and Dr. Katie Marks-Cogan, in the field of early introduction. She explores why the guidelines for introducing allergens have changed and how to introduce allergens safely and consistently. What we cover in this podcast about the early introduction of food allergens: What inspired Meenal and Katie to develop products to help parents with early allergen introduction? What is early food introduction? Why are we no longer avoiding food allergens in babies? What studies have shaped the protocol change around introducing allergens to babies? How does this impact 'high-risk' children? The challenges for the studies and compliance hurdles parents faced. Why do babies develop food allergies? What hypotheses point to the increase in food allergies in children over the past three decades? The guidelines for early introduction of allergens. How to feed allergens to infants safely? Why do you want to consider the early introduction of allergens with your babies? The role of food allergies in a baby's eczema: if your baby has eczema, will they develop food allergies? When to see an allergist for your baby? What is the best practice for diagnosing a baby's allergies, and why is testing not always appropriate? How to work with your medical team and rely on something other than online information. Fundamental studies about the early introduction of allergens: The LEAP study, EAT study, PETIT study Guest Bios Meenal Lele is the founder of Lil Mixins, an allergy prevention company for babies. With experience as a food allergy parent and clinical knowledge, she created the company to provide options for parents introducing allergenic foods to their babies. Meenal holds an engineering and business degree from the University of Pennsylvania. She is the author of The Baby and the Biome, a book exploring the connection between a child's microbiome and their health. Dr. Katie Marks-Cogan, MD, FAAAAI, FACAAI, specializes in allergies, asthma, and sinus disease. She is the head allergist at Ready.Set.Food and provides top-notch care to both kids and adults at Clear Allergy in Downtown Culver City, CA. As a mom of two, Dr. Marks-Cogan was inspired to work with Ready.Set.Food. Originally from Cleveland, OH, she graduated with honors from the University of Maryland School of Medicine after earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physiology and Neurobiology from the University of Maryland College Park.