WE NOW CHECK IN WITH PHREESIA – You will be sent a text or email prior to your appointment. Please go through every prompt and asnwer all questions. Take pictures of your ID & inurance card and upload. Your child’s information will be required to be verified at every visit. You may need to re-schedule your apt if not completed.
Many patients or parents taking care of someone with eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) often ask if they should avoid swimming because of eczema. The truth is: chlorine in pools doesn’t always make eczema worse—and in some cases, it can actually help. However, the biggest problem with swimming pools and eczema patients is actually related to not keeping the skin properly moisturized before and after!
Chlorine is a disinfectant that kills bacteria on the skin, and for some people with eczema, that can reduce infection risk and calm inflammation—similar to a diluted bleach bath, which we sometimes recommend for more severe types of eczema. However, for others, chlorine can dry out the skin, especially with long exposure or if the pool water is heavily chlorinated.
So, what should you do?
✅ Let your child have fun and swim!
✅ Apply a thick moisturizer or barrier cream (like petroleum jelly or Aquaphor) before swimming to protect the skin.
✅ Rinse off with clean water after swimming.
✅ Moisturize again after rinsing off to help moisturize and protect the skin barrier
If you notice worsening eczema after swimming, talk to your allergist and your eczema care plan can be adjusted! But don’t assume you have to skip the pool. With the right skin care plan, swimming can be safe and even beneficial for people with eczema.
Have you noticed food tasting bland or that you can’t smell your morning coffee? A reduced or lost sense of smell—known as hyposmia or anosmia—could be more than just a nuisance. It might signal underlying issues like chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, or allergic rhinitis! These conditions can cause long-term inflammation in the nasal passages, blocking airflow and affecting your sense of smell. Left untreated, they may lead to more serious complications.
An allergist can help pinpoint the root cause, whether it’s environmental allergens or immune-related inflammation, and tailor a treatment plan to restore your senses—and your quality of life. Don’t ignore the signs. Your nose might be telling you more than you think!
It can be hard to tell if you or your child has a cold or seasonal allergies because they share some symptoms. Both can cause sneezing, runny nose, and congestion, but there are key differences.
Colds are caused by viruses and usually last 7-10 days. They may come with a fever, body aches, or a sore throat. Mucus from a cold often starts clear but turns yellow or green. Contrary to popular belief, the color of mucus does not indicate bacterial infection.
Seasonal allergies, on the other hand, are caused by pollen and other allergens. They last as long as you’re exposed to the trigger. Allergy symptoms include itchy eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose with clear mucus. Allergies don’t cause fever or body aches.
If symptoms come and go with the seasons or get worse outdoors, allergies are likely the cause. Seeing an allergist can help confirm the diagnosis and find the best treatment to relieve symptoms.
The wildfires in Los Angeles are a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating effects these natural disasters can have on our communities. The smoke and pollutants from these fires are not only a threat to the environment but also a serious concern for individuals with asthma, making it more difficult to breathe and increasing the risk of attacks. We feel deeply for those impacted by the wildfires and understand the added challenges for those managing chronic respiratory conditions.
Similar to air pollution, wildfire smoke contains fine particles, carbon monoxide, and other harmful substances that can irritate the airways, causing inflammation and breathing difficulties. This is especially dangerous for those with asthma, whose lungs are more sensitive to these pollutants. Here are some tips on how you can manage your asthma in these situations:
1. Stay Indoors: When wildfire smoke is present, it’s important to stay indoors as much as possible. Keep windows and doors closed to keep smoke out. Consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter to reduce indoor pollution.
2. Monitor Symptoms: Stay alert for any changes in your asthma symptoms, like increased coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath. Follow your asthma action plan and use your rescue inhaler if necessary.
3. Check Air Quality: Air quality can deteriorate quickly during a wildfire. Use apps like AirNow to monitor pollution levels. If the air quality is hazardous, stay indoors and limit physical activity.
4. Keep Medications Nearby: Ensure your inhaler and other prescribed medications are easily accessible, especially if you need to evacuate. Keep a backup supply on hand.
5. Consult Your Allergist or other asthma specialist: If you’re struggling to manage asthma symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact your provider. They may offer additional treatments or adjustments to your medication to help you through this difficult time.
