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Living With Allergies
Dr. Chimezie C. Amanambu, M.D • Feb 22, 2022
Living With Allergies
The spectrum of allergic disorders include allergic rhinitis (Hay fever), Asthma, Food Allergies, Contact Dermatitis (Eczema), Animal Allergies (Dogs and Cats) and Insect Allergy.
About six million Americans suffer with allergic disorders with considerable suffering and loss of productivity. About 7.8% of people 18 years and over in the U.S. have hay fever. About 8% of children have food allergies. The commonest foods are peanut, milk and shellfish.
There are two types of Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever). There is one that is present all year round Perennial Allergic Rhinitis-PAR and Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis-SAR. PAR is mostly due to allergens that occur all year round. These include Dust Mites, Pet dander, Cockroaches and Molds. Causes of SAR are allergens that occur in certain times of the year like, tree pollen, grass pollen, weed pollen and grass pollen. Sometimes PAR may co-exist with SAR in which case, the symptoms get worse at certain times of the year.
Winter/Spring: Tree pollen.
Spring: Tree and grass pollen.
Spring/Summer: Grass pollen.
Summer/Fall: Weed and Grass pollen.
The Physician makes a diagnosis of the specific allergies by taking a good allergy history and by performing skin testing (scratch test) or blood test. Treatments such as medications, injections and avoidance strategies are based on this.
Avoidance Therapy is an important part of treatment for allergies. You have to make changes in your environment (home or work), lifestyles to reduce or eliminate your identified allergies.
For tree, grass and weed pollen allergy:
- Plan activities indoors especially when the pollen count is high.
- Wash hair before going to bed to remove pollen that may have settled on you.
- Change clothes after being outdoors for the same reason.
- Avoid hanging clothes outside to dry so that pollen does not settle on them.
- Keep windows closed at home and in the car.
- Change your air conditioner filters frequently.
- Avoid triggers such as cigarette smoke which make allergies worse.
Dust Mite avoidance techniques include:
- Sheets, blankets and pillow cases should be washed weekly in hot water (>130 F) to kill the mites.
- Use anti-dust mite solutions like Acrosan spray on rugs and carpets.
- Buy dust mite impermeable encasements for pillows, mattresses and box springs to reduce dust mite exposure.
Cat and Dog Allergy avoidance techniques include:
- If possible have your pets live outside and if not possible, have them live in confined areas of the house.
- Do not let your pet sleep in bed with you or snuggle with you.
- Wash your pets weekly to diminish the amount of allergen released by your pet.
For Mold Allergies:
- Avoid outdoor activities during times of high mold spore count.
- Avoid piles of leaves or decaying plants because those are sites of high mold spore counts.
- Clean/clear vegetation or plant debris near your home to lessen mold exposure.
- Reduce indoor mold exposure by reducing humidity in the home, decreasing the number of outdoor plants, closing windows (and using air conditioner) during time of high mold count, repairing any water leaks in the house.
In the bustling streets of Akron and in our surrounding region, commercial drivers play a crucial role in keeping our economy moving. However, the safety of these drivers and the public depends significantly on their physical, mental, and emotional fitness. Recognizing this, Dr. Chimezie Amanambu and Pax Medical Associates offer comprehensive Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examinations, adhering to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirements to ensure that commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers are in peak condition to navigate the roads safely. Who Needs a DOT Physical? If you're behind the wheel of a vehicle designed to carry more than 15 people, are compensated to drive a vehicle carrying more than 8 passengers, transport hazardous materials requiring a placard, or operate a vehicle weighing over 10,000 pounds on interstate highways, a DOT physical is mandatory for you. This examination is a prerequisite to obtaining your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC), a vital document that, along with your commercial driver’s license (CDL), legitimizes your status as a commercial driver for up to two years. The DOT Physical Process Dr. Amanambu's approach to the DOT physical is thorough and patient-centric, ensuring not just compliance with regulations but also prioritizing the driver's health and well-being. The examination encompasses a detailed review of the driver's medical history, including any surgeries, medications, and health conditions. A hands-on physical assessment follows, evaluating various health aspects from vision and hearing to cardiovascular health and neurological function. A urinalysis is also conducted to screen for underlying medical issues such as diabetes and kidney disease. Preparing for Your Examination To streamline your visit, Dr. Amanambu recommends coming prepared with a list of your medications, doctors' contact information, and any necessary corrective devices like glasses or hearing aids. For drivers managing conditions like diabetes or sleep apnea, bringing recent health records and treatment compliance reports can facilitate a smoother evaluation process. Navigating Health Conditions Certain health issues may necessitate more frequent examinations. Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease might require annual reviews, while others, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, could lead to quarterly assessments. Dr. Amanambu's expertise ensures that drivers receive the guidance needed to manage their conditions effectively, aiming for optimal health and safety on the road. Dr. Amanambu and Pax Medical Associates stand at the forefront of ensuring the safety and health of Akron's commercial drivers through meticulous DOT physical examinations. Our commitment to thorough assessments and personalized care helps drivers meet regulatory requirements while fostering a safer driving environment for everyone. If you're a commercial driver, don't wait until the last minute to renew your certification. Book an appointment with Dr. Amanambu today and take the first step towards securing your health and livelihood on the road.
In the journey towards maintaining optimal health, understanding the right time to seek medical attention is crucial. Dr. Chimezie Amanambu, our distinguished internal medicine doctor at Pax Internal Medicine Associates, emphasizes the importance of not delaying care for health concerns. Early intervention can be the key to preventing manageable conditions from becoming serious health issues. Recognizing the Signs Many people wonder when it's necessary to consult an internal medicine doctor. Symptoms such as persistent fatigue, unexplained weight changes, chronic pain, or fluctuations in blood pressure and blood sugar levels are clear indicators that it's time to see a specialist. Dr. Amanambu advises that listening to your body's signals is the first step towards taking control of your health. The Role of Preventive Care Preventive care is a cornerstone of internal medicine. Regular check-ups with Dr. Amanambu can identify risk factors and early signs of diseases before they develop into more significant problems. These visits are not just about screening for diseases; they're an opportunity to discuss lifestyle adjustments, nutrition, and exercise that can improve your overall well-being. Why Waiting Can Be Costly Delaying medical consultation can lead to conditions worsening or the emergence of complications, making treatment more difficult and recovery longer. Dr. Amanambu stresses that early diagnosis and treatment often result in better health outcomes and can significantly reduce the risk of serious complications. His approach combines cutting-edge medical knowledge with compassionate care, ensuring patients receive the most effective and timely interventions. Personalized Care at Pax Internal Medicine Associates At Pax Internal Medicine Associates, Dr. Amanambu tailors his approach to each patient's unique needs. Understanding that every individual's health journey is different, he provides personalized care plans designed to address specific health concerns and promote long-term health. His expertise in internal medicine allows him to manage a wide range of conditions, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care under one roof. Waiting to seek medical attention can be a gamble with your health—one that's not worth taking. If you're experiencing health issues or if it's simply time for your annual check-up, consulting with Dr. Amanambu is a step in the right direction. His expertise in internal medicine, combined with a proactive approach to healthcare, makes him an invaluable ally in your quest for a healthier life. Remember, in healthcare, timing is everything, and early intervention is often the key to a successful outcome. Take the time today to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Amanambu.