OccuMed Physicians Outline Allergy & Asthma Symptoms



MEMPHIS, TN, June 11, 2009 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Although the H1N1 virus (swine flu) is still fresh on our minds, there is another more prevalent issue in the country today. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) states that more than 60 million people have asthma and allergies in this country, resulting in 2 million emergency room visits, 500,000 hospitalizations and 5,000 deaths each year.

According to Lloyd Robinson, MD, of OccuMed/Robinson & Associates, a family practice and occupational health clinic, spring is the most challenging time for those who suffer with the symptoms. He offers the following advice for recognizing and preventing asthma and allergies:
"Asthma is a chronic disease of the lungs characterized by the hypersensitive airways that react to allergens or irritants by narrowing or obstructing, making it difficult to move air in and out," he said, noting symptoms include chronic coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath leading to difficulty breathing.
Seasonal allergies are a chronic disease of the immune system characterized by an overreaction to inhaled allergens, such as pollen. The result is in inflammation in the upper respiratory system. According to the AAFA, 35 million Americans suffer from these symptoms, which include chronic sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes and itch/scratchy throat leading to severe congestion, headache, fatigue and difficulty breathing.
Food allergies are also a chronic disease of the immune system and are characterized by an overreaction to food allergens, such as milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, soy, or shellfish causing severe inflammation of various parts of the body. Symptoms include swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, hives, difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis (an allergic reaction that can be deadly due to the fact that multiple organs are affected).
OccuMed partner Marlah Mardis, MD said that the key is not to let asthma and allergies manage you. "You should learn your irritants and be able to adjust accordingly," she said. "Even asthma sufferers can normalize lifestyle to the point that they can participate in virtually any activity he or she wishes; they can prevent the condition from disturbing their sleep, reduce the need for relief or bronchodilator medications and normalize or optimize lung function."
Both physicians agree that the first step for asthma and allergy sufferers is to take control of their environment and take appropriate medications. "If exposure to inducers or allergy and asthma triggers can be avoided, less medication is required," explained Dr. Robinson. "Identifying what inducers make conditions
worse often means reviewing the history of symptoms carefully and keeping track of them. For those who have identified their allergens, the inside and outside environment at home and work should be controlled as much as possible."
Dr. Mardis outlines a list of many common allergens that should be eliminated.
House dust mites- dust mites are small parasites that live off the dead skin that we shed. Decrease exposure by enclosing mattress and box spring in plastic and washing all bed sheets and blankets in hot water once a week.
Pets- if one is allergic to animals, pets such as dogs, cats, gerbils and birds should not be allowed in the house.
Smoke- smoking in the home should not be allowed at any time.
Mold- use bleach to remove mold wherever and whenever it is found, and try to eliminate the source of it.
High humidity- increased moisture in the home can encourage mold growth and house dust mites. Humidifiers, if not cleaned properly, can grow bacteria and produce a residue which can irritate the lungs.
Pollens- it may be necessary to avoid being outside during times of high pollen counts, such as days that are hot, dry and/or windy.
Dr. Mardis also stressed that asthma is a chronic disease that requires long-term therapy, even when asthma symptoms may not be present. "Many asthma sufferers believe their asthma is under control when they no longer experience symptoms, but the fact is that people with asthma suffer from chronic lung inflammation, which can lead to progressive loss of lung function and other severe consequences," she said. "Additionally, asthma maintenance medications have been shown to improve lung function when taken over a consistent long period of time; just consult with your physician about when it might be suitable to stop using it."
Robinson said it is important to know that research indicates notable proportions of patients who have stopped taking their controller medications in the past 12 months have experienced a sudden asthma episode that led to some consequence, including emergency visit, missed work or some other serious health consequence. "Those with asthma and allergies should take control of their life and avoid unnecessary emergency trips or time off from work. It is always important to take medication as prescribed," he said.
For more information about living with asthma or allergies, contact OccuMed at 901-345-6700.

by Alison Eidson, Practice Manager
OCCUMED (Memphis, TN)

Occumed is a practice specializing in Occupational Medicine, Workers Comp, Family Practice, and Physical Therapy. It is located in Memphis, TN, and staffed by Drs. Lloyd Robinson and Marlah Mardis.

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