August is National Immunization Month- Why Should You Get Immunized?

August is National Immunization Month- Why Should You Get Immunized?

The month of August brings reminders and memories of back to school, meeting your fist college roommate or trying out for sports teams.  It’s also a great month to check in with your physician to make sure your vaccines are up to date.  The CDC has labeled August as National Immunization Awareness Month to raise the importance of vaccination not just in childhood, but through our entire lives.

Vaccination is one of the great victories in medicine in prevention of disease.   In 1000 AD, the Chinese and Turks began the practice of inoculation with small pox to prevent disease.  Edward Jenner didn’t bring vaccination to small pox into practice until 1796.  Since, we’ve expanded our ability to protect infants, teens and adults against many preventable diseases that before were serious and often led to death. 

Despite these advances, every year, thousands of children and adults in the US needlessly are sick and suffer and are hospitalized from diseases that could be prevented by vaccination.

What are A Few Reasons Why Vaccines Are So Important?

·       They help protect children, teens and adults against many serious and sometimes deadly diseases.

·       Vaccination to protect against 15 diseases is available in the United States.

·       Through this program many diseases such as measles, mumps rubella, influenza, and small pox that used to wreak havoc on communities have now been brought under control. 

·       They help prevent disease such as measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, human papilloma virus, influenza, shingles, pneumonia caused by pneumococcal bacteria, hepatitis, and whooping cough

Despite knowing this we aren't doing a great job vaccinating adults.

According to CDC data, in 2013:

·       Only 17% of adults 19 years or older had received the tetanus and whooping cough vaccine (Tdap)

·       Only 24% of adults 60 years or older had received shingles (herpes zoster) vaccination. – National Health Interview Survey 2013

·       Only 21% of adults 19 to 64 years at high risk had received pneumococcal vaccination. – National Health Interview Survey 2013

·       Only 42% of adults 18 years or older received a flu vaccine during 2013-2014

vaccination. – National Health Interview Survey 2013

What Are Some Common Myths about Vaccines that Prevent Vaccination?

·       The importance of vaccination ends in childhood

o   Adults should continue to receive vaccinations depending on their health age, and occupation throughout their life

o   Common vaccines for adults include: influenza, pneumonia (Pneumovax), shingles, hepatis B, and whooping cough.  Speak with your doctor to make sure yours are up to date.

o   Check out the CDC's Vaccine Scheduele for Adults to see what vaccines you should have received

·       I’m Egg Allergic and Can’t Get the Flu Vaccine

o   Speak with your allergist regarding specific advice regarding vaccination for flu and egg allergy.

·       Vaccination is dangerous and can lead to disease

o   Vaccines are thoroughly tested before licensing and carefully monitored even after they are licensed to ensure that they are very safe

o   Side effects from vaccines are usually mild and temporary.

o   Some people may have allergic reactions to certain vaccines, but serious and long-term side effects are rare.

·       Vaccination will weaken my immune system

o   Vaccination will not weaken your immune system.  Vaccines act like germs to stimulate the immune system against the virus or bacteria so it will mount a response and offer protection against disease.  Vaccines strengthen your body’s response against these illnesses.

·       Vaccination can cause autism

o   No.  Vaccination does not cause autism.

o   Numerous studies have found no link between vaccination and autism.  In 2004, a groundbreaking study from the Institute of medicine found that thimerosal (a preservative in vaccines) does not cause autism.

Have specific questions about vaccine and the importance of them?  Speak with your doctor to get accurate information or look at the CDC’s website.

If you need vaccines, have questions regarding allergy to vaccines, or have questions about vaccines, contact us and we'll help! Want more specific advice on vaccination with one of New York’s Top Allergist?  Visit our website http://www.gramercyallergy.com or click here to schedule an appointment online.

How Can You Conquer Exercise Induced Asthma?

The benefits of exercising outside are many.   Conquering a hill or moving against the wind can intensifies a workout.   Not only is the workout harder, but recent studies suggest that exercising outdoors over indoors boosts their mood and overall well being. The simple act of taking a walk outside increased participates self esteem, and energy while decreasing depression, anger and tension.

For many though, exercising outdoors and exercise in general is a potential trigger for asthma.  This is called exercise induced asthma.

Did you know?

• About 12-15% of athletes  will have exercise induced asthma.
• Allergic and non-allergic triggers of exercise induced asthma can trigger symptoms of cough, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing.  
• Persons with exercise induced asthma often don't have regular asthma and often only have symptoms during exercise.  

How Do You Know If You Have Exercise Induced Asthma?  

Ask yourself a few simple questions.  If you answer yes, then speak with your Allergist about being screened.  

• Do you have cough, chest tightness or SOB associated only with exercise?
• Does going outside on a cold day trigger a cough?
• Are you sensitive to cold temperatures and dry air? 
• Does air pollutants (tobacco smoke car pollution, and air quality issues) trigger symptoms?

How Are you Diagnosed with Exercise Induced Asthma?

• See your allergist for a complete health history and testing.
• Have a breathing test (Spirometry) done
• A follow up test after exercise may be performed.

What Can You Do to Prevent Exercise Induced Asthma?

• Warm up slowly to humidify the air in your lungs
• Make sure you add a cool down period into your routine
• Check pollen and air quality levels prior to heading out
• Speak with your Allergist about setting up an individualized plan to prevent symptoms and keep you performing at your best!

Want more specific advice on exercise induced asthma with New York’s Top Allergist?  Visit our website http://www.gramercyallergy.com or click here to schedule an appointment online.

Want more information on Exercise Induced Asthma?

Why do I have Itchy Water Blisters on My Hands and Feet?

Summer and warm weather bring oh so much fun!  Everyone wants to catch up, vacation and spend as much time outside as possible.  For some though, the warm weather causes the recurrence of itchy water filled blisters appearing on their hands and feet.  These blisters look like grains of tapioca coming out of the skin.  The itch can be intense! And can cause many sleep disturbance, social embarrassment and disruption.  Symptoms start with intense burning and itching on the hands and feet.  Scratching will cause the appearance of water blisters underneath the skin.  Skin can be red and wet appearing.  Symptoms without treatment last about 3-4 weeks and then reoccur. 

What Are These Itchy Water Filled Blisters?

·       For most these water filled blisters are caused by a form of eczema called dyshidrotic eczema.

·       Other causes may be from fungal infection and other autoimmune diseases and should be evaluated by an allergist or other physician.

 Taken from http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1122527-overview

Taken from http://images.medicinenet.com/images/slideshow/eczema-atopic-dermatitis-s13-photo-of-dyshidrotic-eczema.jpg

Who's Affected by Dyshidrotic Eczema?

·       About 50% of persons with dyshidrotic eczema will have a history of other allergic diseases like eczema, and allergies in the nose, eyes, or/or asthma

·       It affects men and women equally.

·       First episodes typically start anywhere from the 20’s to 40’s and reoccur each spring/summer

What Causes Dyshidrotic Eczema?

·       Causes are varied:

o   dysfunction of the sweat gland on the hands and feet

o   chemical allergy to metals (nickel allergy, cobalt allergy), and products like Balsam of Peru, preservatives and sunscreens we use just during the warmer months

o   Exposure to sun can trigger the onset of symptoms.

o   Stress can also bring out blisters.

Is There Treatment for Dyshidrotic Eczema?

·        Treatment depends on the cause of symptoms.

o   Evaluation for chemical allergy and/or other environmental triggers should be done by an Allergist

o   Evaluation for possible food allergy by an Allergist

o   Evaluation for potential fungal and/or bacterial infection

·        Avoidance of offending agent is key in prevent.  Topical use of corticosteroids, topical antibiotics, and/or UV light therapy may be helpful in prevention. 

Do you need help with your dyshidrotic eczema?  Please book book an appointment with Dr. Jennifer Collins for specific advice

Want more information? Check out the  National Eczema Association

Insect Allergy- What You Need to Know.

 Spending times outdoors this season is such a pleasure, but being bitten by insects can put a damper outside activities.

This is what you need to know now to protect yourself from reactions to insects.

What are signs and symptoms of an insect bite?

·       Pain, swelling and redness confined to the sting site

·       Intense itching at the site.

·       In severe cases, insect bites can cause severe allergic reactions that can result in death.

When Should You Be Worried about An Insect Sting?  

·       There are 3 types of reactions an insect can cause:  a local reaction, a large, local reaction and a systemic allergic reaction.

·       A normal local reaction will result in pain, swelling and redness confined to the sting site.

·       A large local reaction will result in swelling well beyond the sting site. For example, a sting on the forearm could cause the whole arm to swell - a condition that usually peaks two to three days after the sting and can last a week or more.

·       A systemic allergic reaction is the most serious and requires medical attention. Symptoms of a systemic allergic reaction can range from mild to severe.

·       If you’re worried at all, seek immediate medical advice.

What’s Most Likely to Bite Us?

·       Mosquitos, fleas, chiggers, and bed bugs- most likely will cause a local allergic reaction.

·       Wasps, yellow jackets, hornets, and bees are the cause of the majority of insect stings- sting insects that can cause a local and/or total body allergic reaction.  About 3 out of 100 adults have severe allergy to flying insects resulting in potentially deadly reaction. 

·       Fire Ants (red or black) - extend from the southern US up into NY.  Bites from these insects typically cause a blistering reaction.

How Can you Prevent Insect Stings/Bites?

• Always wear shoes when walking in the grass. Many bees burrow in the ground and you can unsuspectingly step into their nest.
• Wear bug sprays like Off or Deet.  Wary of harsh chemicals?  Geraniums and citronella are natural mosquito propellants.
• Don’t drink from open soft drink cans; stinging insects are attracted to them and may crawl inside.
• Cover food when eating outside.
• Don’t use sweet-smelling perfume, hairspray or deodorant.
• Avoid wearing brightly colored clothing with flowery patterns.
• Protect your legs, arms and body with long pants/long-sleeved shirts when working outside.
• Use caution near bushes, attics and picnic areas. 

How can you Treat Insect Bites?

Local and large local reactions can most likely be treated with OTC anti-histamines and topical steroids.  Some large local reactions will need medical care.

Systemic allergic reactions ALWAYS require medical attention.  Lifesaving epinephrine may be administered.  If you have a reaction, seek treatment from an allergist.  They have treatment that can potentially you of your insect sting.   

Need more help or have questions?  Schedule anappointment here.

Want more information?

Can Pollen Cause Food Allergies?

Spring not only brings out beautiful flowers, but the produce in the grocery stores and farmers markets looks so delicious.  Fresh fruits and vegetables for some are cause for fear.  Biting into them causes small water filled blisters and itchy lips.

Is it Possible that Pollen Can Cause Food Allergies?  

• Nature uses similar patterns over again as building blocks.  Patterns similar on various pollens look like proteins that are also present on fruits and vegetables.  Direct contact with these patterns say when biting into for example, a fresh apple, may cause a local reaction.  
• This is called oral allergy syndrome or pollen-food syndrome

What are Typical Cross Reacting Pollens and Foods?

Birch Pollen:  Apples, almonds, carrot, peanut, carrot, celery, cherry, hazelnut, kiwi, peach, pear, and plum

Grass Pollen- celery, melon, oranges, peaches, and tomato

Ragweed- banana, cucumber, melons, sunflower seeds and zucchini

What Are Symptoms of Oral Allergy Syndrome?

• Itchy mouth, scratchy throat or localized swelling of lips, tongue, or throat
• Itchy ears
• Symptoms localized to the area of contact

How Do you Diagnose Oral Allergy Syndrome?

• See your allergist.  Food allergies can be dangerous and lead to life threatening events.  You want to be sure that you have oral allergy syndrome and not a true food allergy.
• You may need epinephrine and/or other allergy medication.  Your allergist will be able to help determine a specific anaphylaxis plan.  
• Want to be evaluated for oral allergy syndrome?  Book an appointment here.   Gramercy Allergy and Asthma is located near Union Square at 205 East 22nd Street New York, NY 10010

Can Allergies Cause My Headaches?

When headaches strike, most of us run through a list of typical causes and reach for some ibuprofen for quick relief.  But what if you have allergies?  Should you be reaching for allergy treatment to get headache relief instead?  

Millions of people suffer from allergies and don't even know it. Identifying headache triggers is an important tool in the prevention of headaches.  Patients commonly complain of symptoms of facial pain and pressure, eye pain, and in increase in headaches in the spring.  These are typical signs of a sinus headache.  Many have missed an obvious important environmental trigger for their pain - pollen and other environmental triggers.

 
How Can Allergies Cause Sinus Headaches?

Sinus cavities are hollow spaces with openings to the nose allow the flow of air and mucous into the nose. Cavities are located over the cheeks (maxillary sinuses), forehead (frontal sinuses), and over/between eyebrows (sphenoid and ethmoid sinuses) (See above diagram). Breathing in breathing in pollen, pet dander, dust, and other allergic triggers can trigger localized inflammation in the sinus cavities Allergic inflammation can trigger pain and pressure in the corresponding area face. Allergic inflammation triggers localized swelling in the sinuses that disrupts normal blood flow and drainage of blood and mucous.  This buildup of pressure causes pain and allergic inflammation known as allergic sinusitis.   What are Signs of Sinus Headaches Caused by Allergies? Chronic pain and tenderness over the cheeks, forehead, and area between or behind the eyes. Stuffy nose, sneezing, ear pain or pressure, ear fullness, or facial swelling Loss of smell Post nasal drip Triggers of seasonal variation, for example, a headache you get every spring, fall, or with exposure to cleaning. Have other diseases triggered by allergies like asthma, eczema, or allergies in your nose or eyes?  Allergic diseases tend to run together.  If you're an "allergic" person, then allergies in your sinuses might be triggering your allergies. Suspect you're an allergic person, but aren't sure?  Take this easy quiz How Do I Know If I Have Allergies? How Can You Treat Sinus Headaches? If you suffer from headaches, see your primary doctor for a complete evaluation. Suspect you have headaches triggered by uncontrolled allergies?  See an allergist to get tested to identify potential allergic triggers. An allergist will be able to help formulate a specific plan that will include: avoidance measures,  direct medications and  possibly offer allergy shots (a way to desensitize you to your allergic triggers) Want more information on headaches?  Learn more at Allergies and Headaches or The National Headache Foundation. Have more specific questions for me?  Schedule an appointment here.

How Can You Be Prepared for New York's Spring Allergy Season?

How Can You Be Prepared for New York's Spring Allergy Season?

The arrival of spring is on everyone's mind after all of the snow and bitter cold temperatures we've had this past winter.  Longer days and more sunlight will soon trigger tree's to start pollinating.  Tree pollen in New York is potent and causes many to suffer from symptoms of itchy watery eyes, runny nose, sinus headaches, and cold like symptoms.

What Can You Do to Be Prepared for New York's Spring Allergy Season?

Here are 5 simple tips to keep you feeling great this spring season.

Get Tested

Knowing what you’re allergic to and what triggers your symptoms is the first step to avoiding the offending pollen.  There are many non-medical ways of avoiding allergens. 

Start Medications Early

Your allergist will help you create a plan of when to start medications, and which medications work quickly. Taking allergy medications early and as directed can prevent you from developing severe symptoms that can interfere with your work, school and life. 

Rock a Hollywood Look

Always pack and use sunglasses this spring.  Glass help protect your eyes from airborne pollens and dust.  This will help stop itchy watery eyes without the use of medications.

Change Your Routine

Showering at night will help wash away airborne tree pollens off your hair so you aren’t carrying them into your bed at night. 

Spring Board Your Exercise Routine For the Beach Season

Tree pollens are highest in the morning.  Change your exercise routine from morning to evening to help naturally decrease your exposure to tree pollen.

Want more specific advice on surviving New York’s Allergy Season?  Visit our website http://www.gramercyallergy.com or click here to schedule an appointment online.

7 Fun Ways to celebrate Valentines Day Allergy free this year!

Celebrating Valentine's Day with someone who's allergic can be challenge.  Here are a few tips to help you have a fun allergy free Valentines Day.  You'll be spreading love, not allergies!

1. Eat Chocolate!

Want to surprise your loved one with chocolate? Go for a dark one! Dark chocolate is filled with flavanoids, strong anti-oxidant chemicals that help to reduce inflammation. Dark chocolate is milk free making it a perfect gift if your loved one is allergic.

2. Play!

When you have a partner, you have an instant playmate. Take advantage of it and organize a game of indoor tennis, hit the gym, take a dance class, or go for a romantic walk. More and more evidence points to the role of exercise in keeping not only your body fit, but your immune system functioning at it's peak performance.

3. Relax!

Thinking of doing something special for loved one? Try a massage. Use mineral oil to prevent an allergic reaction if your partner has sensitive skin.  Physical affection helps to decrease cortisol levels, a key hormone that leads to inflammation.

4. Kiss!

 Did you know that food proteins can be transferred in the saliva causing an unwanted allergic reaction. To prevent a kiss from being dangerous, avoid foods that might trigger a reaction in your partner.  If there's no food allergies, then go ahead and give your loved one a kiss. It's can be the perfect allergy free gift.

5. Give Flowers!

Roses, tulips daffodils and orchids are some of the least allergenic flowers. Stay away from daisies, goldenrod, sunflowers, chamomile, and chrysanthemums.  They are among the worst. 

6. Cook!

Cook a meal filled with fresh fruits and vegetables. You’ll know exactly what the ingredients are in the meal.  Use a rainbow of different ingredients and colors to include key vitamins like C, D, E, A, and Zinc that are vital for you immune systems function. Here are tips on Allergy Free meals

7. Quit!

Do you smoke? Tobacco smoke is linked with increases in upper respiratory illnesses, asthma exacerbations, and ear infections. Make quitting your ultimate gift for your loved ones! Need tips?  Quit Here! NYS Smoke Free

Above all else, have fun this Valentine’s day with your partner and show those around you how much you love and appreciate them!

Need more ideas?  Visit Gramercy Allergy And Asthma or book an appointment here.

How Do You Know If You Have Allergy, Asthma or Eczema?

Allergies, asthma and eczema (skin allergy) affect millions of people and many don't even know they have allergy.  What are signs?  A stuffy nose when you sleep at night, constantly blowing your nose,  always being itchy or a nighttime cough are just a few of the symptoms that indicate you might have allergies, asthma, and/or eczema.

Here are some other questions to ask yourself to help determine if you have allergy.

1) Do you cough or have trouble breathing when you walk, do simple chores or go outside in the cold?

2) Do you avoid exercise or taking part in sports like jogging, soccer, swimming or aerobics because you have trouble breathing or cough?

3) Do you have trouble sleeping through the night because of a dry cough or shortness of breath?

4) Do pets, dust or pollen make your breathing more difficult?

5) Do you dread the change of season because you know you'll get a cold and/or sinus infection?

6) Do your eyes itch, get red or puffy?

7) Does a cold often go into your chest and leave a lingering dry cough?

8) Do you get frequent rashes or are always itchy?

9) Do you have sneezing attacks?

10)  Does tobacco smoke or strong odors make you cough?


If you answered yes to more than 2 questions, you  are likely have allergy.  See an allergist to get tested and determine exactly what is triggering your symptoms and how you can avoid it.  Allergies are treatable.

Need help?  Visit our website www.gramercyallergy.com or click here to schedule an appointment.

Why Are My Lips Itchy and Dry?

Cold temperatures and harsh winds can bring about dry itchy skin and peeling lips.  Lip balm usage is on the uptick this holiday season.  More are looking for protection and treatment for delicate skin, covering lips so they look their best at holiday parties and date nights.

For some, the entire answer to why their lips peel and itch isn't just the extreme weather.  Is it possible that an allergy can make your lips peel and itch?  Of course!

Chemicals we use on our face and hands is a common cause of itchy, dry and irritated lips. This condition is called lip contact dermatitis.  Often people think they just have "dry" lips and continue using the products that are actually the source of the problem.  Chemicals in lipsticks, lip balms and nail polish are common sources of the irritations to lips.

What causes lip contact dermatitis?

•  Inflammation and irritation of the lips caused by common chemicals in make-up , toothpaste, lipstick/balm, facial wash, and products we use our hands.
• Repeated application of chemicals causes allergic sensitization
• Common chemicals that cause lip contact dermatitis include:
• shellac- commonly found in lipsticks/lip balms
• fragrance- commonly found in most personal care products, gum, mouthwash and toothpaste
• nickel- contamination in some make-up or transferred from lip product container
• sunscreen
• varnish found in nail polish
• preservatives- commonly found in all personal care items.
• Irritants from toothpaste, lip balms and licking lips can also cause a non-allergic dermatitis 

What is the treatment for lip contact dermatitis?

• Identification of the chemical allergy and avoidance will cure the dermatitis.
• Evaluation by an allergist will help determine if the irritation, infection or is caused by an chemical allergy or a irritant reaction.  
• Patch testing for common chemicals used in the personal care products will help determine what to avoid.

Need more help?  Call the office or schedule appointment here.

How To Deal With Food Allergies When You're A Guest At Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays.  There's always space at the table for unexpected friends or family members to join in a huge communal feast.  If you have food allergies, getting the invite to go a  new home is scary.  You have to confide in your friends information about your health and potentially something that can make you very sick.  Having food allergies shouldn't stop you from enjoying the generosity of others.

Here are 5 easy tips to deal with food allergies at Thanksgiving:

1) Communicate

• Give your host ample time to make substitutions to the menu by telling them clearly your allergies. Bring it up one time and then avoid constant reminders about your allergy
• Find out what the menu will be and if they are planning on cooking with something that causes a food allergy

2) Offer to help

• Offer to bring the salad, stuffing or dessert.  This are foods that often have multiple ingredients that can be difficult to identify.
• If your allergy is especially difficult to avoid, then offer to bring food for yourself.
• There are easy substitutions for milk, eggs, and nuts available.  
• Milk- any of the milk substitutes (coconut milk, rice milk, soy milk, almond milk, oat milk etc) can be used 1:1 in any recipe.
• Eggs- applesauce and banana's are great substitutes for cookies and cakes.
• Nuts- keep them on the side, or make 2 dishes 1 with and 1 without.
• Here's a great website for more information Cooking with Food Allergies

3)  Educate yourself

• Sit down with your allergist and put together a specific plan on what to do if there's an accidental ingestion.
• Consider foods that might have hidden ingredients (cocktails, baked goods, stuffing, mashed potato etc..)

4) Be prepared

• Be sure to have an epinephrine auto-injector in your bag along with an anti-histamine.
• Consult with your allergist about recipes and ideas on how to approach the situation.
• Know where the closest hospital is in case there is an accidental ingestion.

5) Enjoy yourself

• Trust those around you to take your allergy seriously.  
• Don't let your food allergies spoil the holidays. 
• Here's to your good health and those around you 

Need more specific help?  Please call the office or click here to schedule an appointment

What's New in Skin Allergies? D-Day for Skin Deep Allergies

Being itchy and scratchy all over is one of the worst things to experience.  Symptoms interfere with sleep, work, and your life.  Scratching can leave your skin scarred and damaged.   Many of my patients come to me with difficult to treat rashes.  They've gone from doctor to doctor and treated with topical steroids without anyone finding the cause of the itch.

 Did you know on an average day we are exposed to over 128 chemical in our personal care items (shampoo, cosmetics, deodorants, etc)?  These rashes are called allergic contact dermatitis.  Over 14.5 million people have chemical allergy & many of these are children!  I love trying to find the cause of why my patients are itching- it is one of my favorite puzzles to solve.   Anyone who's read my blog in the past knows I often write about these allergies- shellac allergy, formaldehyde resin allergy, and; methyldibromo glutaronitrile

Chemicals like preservatives and additives in our products trigger difficult to treat rashes like lip, eye lid, and foot rash.   I do extensive chemical & environmental allergy testing in my office in the hopes of identifying the trigger for the itch.  This is a huge win in any of my patients care.  Avoidance of the offending chemicals can lead to complete resolution of the rash- without medications.  Common chemicals that cause contact dermatitis include fragrance, cocamidopropyl, formaldehyde, nickel and so many more.  

Today, I attended D-Day for Skin Deep Allergies and Patch Testing a full day conference put on by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology in Atlanta, Georgia.  The room was filled with over 100 other Allergists/Immunologist just as excited as I am about finding the cause of a rash.  

I'm spending the entire weekend in Atlanta at the College's meeting and will bring my expanded knowledge base back to New York to help my patients.  

• Why do my lips itch?
• What's the cause of my foot rash?
• How much nickel can I eat if I'm nickel allergic?
• What's the cause of eye lid rashes?
• Why am I itchy all over?  

Stay tuned- I'll be writing more on these and other topics I learn at the American College of Allergy Asthma, and Immunology's 2014 conference!

Need help with a difficult to treat rash?  Suspect you have contact dermatitis?  Call the office 212-679-3574 or click Gramercy Allergy & Asthma to schedule an appointment.

How to Prevent Colds this Winter....

This time of the year temperatures are all over the place.  The drop in temperature also brings out activities of cold virus.  Colds cause for significant disruption to our lives, work, and social interactions.

Everyone's goal during cough and cold season is to keep healthy. As an immunologist, I'm often asked about natural ways to prevent viruses from taking hold and to reduce the time of a cold.

Here are my 5 top tips.  I hope they keep you cold free this year!

1) Wash your hands! 

• You've heard it before and you'll hear it again.  Frequent hand washing is the number one way you can prevent colds.  Your hands bring germs and viruses to your nose, mouth and eyes where they gain entry and cause illness. Keeping your hands germ free will help keep you germ free.  Wash or use portable hand disinfectants after riding the subways, before eating, after shaking hands, or anything you think of it.  Aim for 20 seconds at least with warm soapy water. 

2) Eat a rainbow of foods each day!

• Fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, seed and lean proteins will ensure you are getting enough essential vitamins and nutrients to keep your immune system working at maximum potential!   Critical vitamins involved in the immune reaction are Vitamin A (think anything orange like pumpkin and squash), Vitamin C (oranges and grapefruits), Vitamin D (the sun!),  Vitamin E  (nuts and sunflower seeds) and Zinc (oysters & chickpeas). Vitamins, anti-oxidants and bacteria are natural ways to maintain this balance. 

3)  Keep your fluids up!

• Water helps keep your skin and outer mucosal functioning at it's best.  These surfaces are the first line defense against germs and viruses. 
• Shoot for 4-5 8 ounces of water per day.  Live in a dry apartment?  Drink at least an 1-2 glasses more.

4) Maintain regular exercise and sleep program!

• Did you know that regular exercise helps boost the activity of critical immune cells in fighting off germs and viruses? 
• Even if you're getting sick low intensity exercise will reduce the time of the illness.
• Sleep is when your body repairs and rejuvenates itself.  As we enter the holiday season, increased parties and plans often infringe on our time for sleep, but shoot for 7-8 hours a night to keep your body in it's best form. 

5) Disinfect Germ Magnets!

• The phone- Your home, office and personal phone are way stations for viruses.  They can survive on them for a few hours to days.
• Remote controls- touched by everyone in the family, but least cleaned.  During cold season, try and wipe off at least once a day.
• Keep boards and computers- we sit at them for hours a day sneezing and breathing on them.  Make sure to wipe them off several times a week to keep yourself healthy
• The bathroom- yuck...faucets and door knobs are touched by everyone in the house and office.  This is the perfect place to pick up viruses.  Make sure faucets and knobs are getting disinfected frequently.   

Hopefully these tips will keep you cold free this season!


Need more personalized care?  Call the office or  schedule an appointment here.