Think diagnosing food allergies is as simple as running a test? Think again. Food allergy testing is a maze of gray areas, false positives, and, hopefully, a clear food allergy diagnosis.
Navigating food allergy testing can feel overwhelming, with skin pricks, blood tests, and conflicting advice. How do you determine which tests are truly useful? How can you avoid unnecessary dietary restrictions from false results?
In this episode, Dr. David Stukus, a board-certified allergist and immunologist, joins Dr. Gupta and Kortney to demystify the science of food allergy testing. From the importance of patient history to the latest diagnostic tools, Dr. Stukus provides clear guidance to help you make informed decisions while navigating food allergy testing.
What we cover in our episode about food allergy testing
The Crucial Role of History in Food Allergy Diagnosis: Dr. Stukus highlights why understanding a patient’s reaction history (symptoms, timing, and context) is critical for guiding effective testing decisions.
Choosing the Right Tests: We break down skin prick testing, blood tests like IgE and component testing, and innovations like epitope mapping. Dr. Stukus explains why IgG testing is untrustworthy and emphasizes oral food challenges as the gold standard for diagnosis.
False Positives and Negatives: Learn why expert interpretation of test results is crucial and how overtesting can lead to unnecessary restrictions and confusion.
When to See an Allergist: Practical advice on when to consult a specialist and what to expect during your visit for evidence-based care.
This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Genentech for sponsoring today’s episode.
About Our Guest
Dr. David R. Stukus is a renowned allergist and immunologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and a professor at Ohio State University College of Medicine. He is known for his dedication to patient education and myth-busting in allergy care and is a trusted expert in food, asthma, and environmental allergies.
Follow Dr. Stukus on Instagram: @allergykidsdoc
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41:23
#96 - Doctors on Social Media: Changing Health Education
Can a TikTok video from a doctor change how we understand health?
Have you ever scrolled through social media and found a doctor busting medical myths or sharing health advice? Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are transforming how we access health information and interact with medical professionals.
Dr. Zachary Rubin joins Dr. Gupta and Kortney to explore the evolving role of doctors on social media. From creating trustworthy content to balancing the risks and rewards of being a medical professional online, Dr. Rubin shares his journey and tips for using social platforms to educate and empower.
Whether you're a patient seeking reliable health information or a healthcare professional curious about sharing expertise, this episode dives deep into the intersection of social media and medicine.
What We Cover in Our Episode About Doctors on Social Media
Why Social Media Matters for Doctors: Dr. Rubin explains why having a presence online is vital for normalizing conditions like food allergies and providing access to reliable health education.
Navigating Risks and Rewards: Learn how doctors manage the challenges of creating content while maintaining professionalism and protecting themselves online.
Fighting Misinformation: We discuss how to responsibly call out misinformation and share accurate information to build trust.
Bridging Healthcare Gaps: Discover how platforms like Instagram and TikTok help patients without access to specialists find trustworthy medical advice.
Tips for Creating Reliable Medical Content: Dr. Rubin shares strategies for crafting engaging, accurate posts and curating a social media feed filled with credible health information.
Follow Dr. Rubin on Social Media:
Instagram:@rubin_allergy
YouTube: @rubin_allergy
TikTok: @rubin_allergy
Twitter: @rubin_allergy
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32:47
#95 - How Allergic Reactions Work: The Science Behind Allergy Symptoms
Have you ever wondered what happens inside your body during an allergic reaction?
From itchy eyes to anaphylaxis, the science behind allergies explains why some reactions are mild while others can be life-threatening. In this episode, we break it all down.
Dr. Payel Gupta and Kortney unpack the basics of food allergies, starting with what IgE antibodies are and how they play a role in allergic reactions. They explain what happens when your immune system encounters an allergen, breaking it down with our favorite pinata analogy. This deep dive into the immune system reveals why reactions can range from mild to life-threatening and explores the differences between food allergies, intolerances, and oral allergy syndrome.
If you're newly diagnosed or curious about the science behind allergies, this episode offers valuable insights to help you understand your body and stay safe.
What we cover in our episode about what happens in an allergic reaction
What is an allergic reaction? Discover how your immune system identifies allergens and triggers a response involving IgE antibodies, mast cells, and histamine. Confused? We use our pinata analogy to simplify it.
The role of histamine and inflammation. Learn how histamine is released during an allergic reaction, leading to inflammation and common symptoms.
Understanding food allergies vs. food intolerances. Explore the key differences, including symptoms, risks, and why terminology matters.
Oral allergy syndrome and environmental allergies. Understand why some allergies don’t lead to anaphylaxis and how cross-reactivity can cause symptoms.
Anaphylaxis and severe reactions. Explore why some reactions are life-threatening and how factors like exposure levels and health conditions can influence severity.
More resources about allergies:Â
A Complete Guide to Allergies
More About Food Allergies
More About Anaphylaxis
Food Allergy Treatment & Management
Living with food allergies guide
What Can You Do If You Can’t Afford Allergen-Free Foods?
What if I Can’t Afford My Allergy Medications?
This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Genetech 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.
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30:08
#94 - Neffy Epinephrine Nasal Spray: Impact on Patients and Healthcare Providers
Exploring Neffy Nasal Spray: A Needle-Free Epinephrine Option
Managing anaphylaxis just became easier with Neffy, the FDA-approved nasal spray for epinephrine. This innovative, needle-free option is transforming emergency allergy care.
Dr. Autumn Burnette joins Dr. Payel Gupta and Kortney to discuss how Neffy works, who it’s best suited for, and its potential impact on anaphylaxis treatment. With her expertise in allergy and immunology, Dr. Burnette addresses common concerns about Neffy’s effectiveness, highlights its benefits, and shares practical details like cost, shelf life, and heat sensitivity.
What We Cover in our Episode About Neffy Nasal Spray Delivery System
A Game-Changer for Anaphylaxis: Discover how Neffy offers a needle-free option for delivering life-saving epinephrine during severe allergic reactions.
Patient Benefits of Neffy: Learn how its ease of use and accessibility can make anaphylaxis management less daunting for patients.
Addressing Skepticism About Neffy: Dr. Burnette explains how studies validate Neffy’s effectiveness and addresses questions about trusting a nasal spray for emergencies.
Practical Tips for Neffy Use: Get insights on cost, insurance coverage, shelf life, and whether Neffy works with nasal congestion or nose jobs!
Expanding Treatment Options: Explore why having more options like Neffy is exciting for patients and healthcare providers alike.
More resources about Anaphylaxis and Neffy:Â
Neffy: https://www.neffy.com/
Anaphylaxis: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/
Epinephrine: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/
Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to ARS Pharma 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.
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.
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21:57
#93 - Neffy Epinephrine Nasal Spray: A New Needle-Free Treatment for Anaphylaxis
Curious About Neffy, the New Nasal Epinephrine Spray?
We’re diving into everything you need to know about Neffy, the new FDA-approved nasal spray for epinephrine. This groundbreaking, needle-free option provides an easy way to manage anaphylaxis in emergencies.
Dr. Sakina Bajowala joins Dr. Gupta and Kortney to explore Neffy’s unique nasal delivery system, what distinguishes it from traditional auto-injectors, and the science behind its development. With her expertise in allergy and asthma care, Dr. Bajowala walks us through Neffy’s FDA approval journey, the technology that powers the nasal spray, and how it’s changing the landscape of allergy treatment.
What We Cover in Our Episode on Neffy Nasal Spray:
Why Neffy Nasal Spray is Unique: Dr. Bajowala explains why nasal epinephrine is an innovative choice for anaphylaxis treatment and when it may be preferable to injectables.
FDA Approval for Neffy: We discuss the rigorous testing behind Neffy’s FDA approval, including studies conducted with actual patients post-approval.
Intravail Technology in Neffy Nasal Spray: Learn about the advanced technology enabling rapid, effective absorption through the nasal passages for timely intervention.
Considerations for Using Neffy Nasal Spray: We explore practical aspects of Neffy’s use, from nasal congestion to potential side effects.
Neffy Dosing and Side Effects: Dr. Bajowala provides insights on dosing, including when a second dose may be recommended.
Helpful links:
Neffy: https://www.neffy.com/
Anaphylaxis: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/
Epinephrine: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/
This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to ARS Pharma 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.
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