Monthly Archives: May 2011

Quick Tips – fire ants

Fire ants are wingless bees and they sting with an abdominal stinger while holding on with their jaws. (Eeeww! and Ouch!)  The allergic reaction is to the sting, not the bite. When gardening or picnicking, be sure to wear shoes … Continue reading

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Quick Tips – barbecuing

When barbecuing, keep in mind the issue of second-hand smoke. Be sure to position the grill in such a way that the smoke blows away from adults and children. Some people with oak or hickory allergy are more sensitive to … Continue reading

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Quick Tips – insect bites

Insect bites and stings can hamper an active outdoor lifestyle. For people sensitive to bug repellants there is a new line of clothing, hats and scarves that are impregnated with a safe, effective repellant.  This clothing is widely marketed in … Continue reading

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Quick Tips – sunscreen

Sunscreens are important commodities in the Florida summer. The ones most likely to cause skin allergy contain PABA (para-amino-benzoic-acid). If you have problems with sunscreen try one that is PABA-free.

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Quick Tips – Swimming & chlorine

If you or your child’s skin is aggravated by pool chlorine, try applying a small amount of olive oil to the skin before swimming.

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More lung injury from smoking

Researchers at the University of Alabama Medical Center have discovered a new reason cigarette smoke causes lung damage. They found that smoke inhibits leukotriene A4 hydrolase (LTA4A). This molecule is important in shutting down white blood cells following a successful … Continue reading

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LTRA’s

  The lead article in a recent issue of the New England Journal of Medicine was on leukotriene antagonists in treating asthma. The lead-article status reflects the importance of this research. As reported, scientists at the University of Aberdeen, U.K., … Continue reading

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Hum Away Your Sinutitis

Simple viruses or colds can often lead to sinusitis because the cold causes the sinus cavity to obstruct, thus trapping bacteria in a closed space. Once in this closed space, bacteria multiply and lead to the pain and pus of … Continue reading

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Gluten Avoidance & Celiac Disease

Dear Dr. K: I tested negative for celiac disease and I’m not allergic to wheat, but I feel better when I avoid gluten. Why? Your question is a good one in a specific sense and in a global one. It … Continue reading

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Bitter Might Be Good!

The University of Maryland Medical School has discovered taste receptors found on the tongue are also in human lungs. The specific receptor in the lungs is for tasting bitterness. Of exceeding interest is the lung receptor being connected with the … Continue reading

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