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Allergy & Asthma Issues: Fall 2009

FLU, ASTHMA AND ALLERGIES

The novel H1N1 flu virus (sometimes called “swine flu”) is creating headlines around the world. With each passing day, medical experts and the public are learning more about this virus – how it behaves and how to treat it.

As with the regular, seasonal flu, people with allergies and asthma should take prevention measures to avoid getting sick.

ASTHMA’S AFFECT
A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that the majority of pediatric deaths from H1N1 occurred in children with an underlying medical condition--in some cases asthma.

Children and adults with respiratory conditions such as asthma are more likely to experience serious health problems if they contract the flu. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) urges all patients with asthma to get the H1N1 vaccine in addition to the regular seasonal flu vaccine.

IS IT AN ALLERGY OR IS IT THE FLU?
Novel H1N1 and the seasonal flu are not the same, but have similar symptoms. Some allergy symptoms may also be confused for flu symptoms. For parents of children with asthma or allergies, telling the difference between allergic disease symptoms and the seasonal flu or H1N1 may be a bit difficult.

"Itchy eyes, a scratchy nose or sneezing are symptoms of allergies," explains Thomas B. Casale, MD, FAAAAI. "But if your child suffers from asthma and develops a fever or nausea and vomiting, consult your physician."

Here’s how to tell if you are suffering from allergies or something more severe

Allergy symptoms Flu symptoms
Runny nose
Sneezing
Stuffiness
Itchy, watery eyes
Itchiness in the nose, mouth or throat		 Runny nose
Coughing
Sore throat
Tiredness
Lack of appetite
Fever
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea

FOOD ALLERGIES AND VACCINES
Vaccinations for both the seasonal flu and H1N1 are among the best prevention tools available to prevent complications from the flu. But what if you are allergic to a substance in the vaccines?

"Individuals with egg allergy may be at risk for an allergic reaction to H1N1 and seasonal influenza vaccines due to the egg content in the vaccine preparations," reports Dr. Casale. “Before getting vaccinated, review the information posted on www.aaaai.org and consult with your health care provider. In most cases, vaccination can be tolerated if done according to these recommendations."

IF YOU DO GET SICK
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people with flu-like symptoms stay home for at least 24 hours after they are free of fever.

If you experience severe symptoms, including difficulty breathing, chest pain/pressure, dizziness or persistent vomiting, seek emergency medical care.

KEEP INFORMED
The AAAAI offers a comprehensive library of resources on the novel H1N1 virus – especially as related to allergic diseases – including treatment recommendations, vaccine news, case studies and information for patients. Subscribe to the RSS feed to be notified of the latest updates as they happen.

THE VIRTUAL ALLERGISTTM

When you have questions about your health concerns, you want answers right away. While there’s no substitute for the advice of a board-certified allergist, online tools can also give you valuable information.

The Virtual Allergist is an interactive, Web-based tool that can help you understand what may be causing your symptoms. To use The Virtual Allergist, visit www.aaaai.org/patients/virtual_allergist and select the area of the body where you are experiencing symptoms. Then choose your symptom—such as sneezing, trouble breathing or a runny nose—to get information on conditions that could be causing your health problem.

After using The Virtual Allergist, visit the AAAAI’s online Physician Referral Directory to find an allergist/immunologist near you. An allergist is the best-qualified medical professional to help diagnose and treat your allergies and asthma.

 

AVOID CONTRACTING OR SPREADING THE FLU

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water
  • Hand sanitizers may also be effective
  • Use a tissue to cover your coughs and sneezes
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • Stay home if you feel ill
  • When possible, avoid close contact with sick people
  • Obey school/business closures and other public health advisories

 

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