Allergistdoc

"Feeling grateful today 💐

My amazing team surprised me for Boss's Day.

Two years in, and I couldn't be more proud of what we're building together at TexasAllergyMD.

These are the moments that remind you why you do what you do.

As an allergist, I never recommend Benadryl.👀....

Benadryl (active ingredient: diphenhydramine) is a first-generation antihistamine that crosses the Blood Brain Barrier, causing significant sedation and cognitive effects.

Most are already exhausted due to their allergic symptoms of nasal congestion and stuffiness, itching and sneezing.

Why compound this effect with a first generation antihistamine?

All of our food allergy kiddos and adults receive a food allergy action plan which is a step by step emergency guide for handling food allergic reactions.

After epinephrine administration for a food allergic reaction, one needs to remain alert for proper ongoing medical assessment – not groggy and sedated from outdated medication, so I typically always recommend a non-sedating antihistamine such as (cetirizine, loratidine, fexofenadine) instead of a sedating antihistamine.

The global medical community is already taking action....

Countries like Germany and Sweden have begun restricting access to first-generation antihistamines entirely.

Meanwhile, in the US we have numerous second-generation options (cetirizine, loratadine, fexofenadine) that provide effective symptom relief with minimal side effects.

Consider this and discuss it with your trusted doctor and allergist.

Happy Mother's Day to all my food allergy moms!

I see you scanning ingredient labels in the store.

I see you. ❤️

I see you staying up late researching the latest advances in food oral immunotherapy (OIT) and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT).

I see you double-checking that the soccer coach, the substitute teacher, and the babysitter all know how to use an epinephrine auto-injector.

I see you navigating birthday parties with a smile while carrying safe snacks in your purse.

I see you meal planning like a pro, trying to find that one recipe everyone can enjoy together.

And yes, I see you cooking multiple dinners when that's just not possible.

But most IMPORTANTLY, I see you transforming fear into strength.

Teaching your child to ask the right questions. To advocate for themselves. To move through the world with confidence, not limitations.

Your vigilance isn't anxiety - it's love in action.

Your research isn't obsession - it's empowerment.

Your advocacy isn't overprotection - it's building a safer world for all our allergy kiddos.

From one food allergy mom to another: You are not alone on this journey!

Your tireless work matters.

Your kiddo is lucky to have you as their fiercest protector and greatest champion.

Today, celebrate yourself. You deserve it. 👏🏿

MYTH BUSTED: "Food allergies always run in families"

Doctor, no one in our family has any allergies.

How did my child develop food allergies?"

This is one of the most common questions I hear after giving parents a food allergy diagnosis.

The answer might surprise you!

While genetics certainly plays a role in food allergies, approximately 50% of children diagnosed with food allergies have NO family history of allergic conditions.

That's right – about half of my young patients are the first in their families to develop food allergies.

So where do these allergies come from? It's complicated.

Current research shows food allergies are multifactorial, involving:

1. Timing of food introduction: Meaning when allergic foods are introduced into the diet.
2. Environmental exposures
3. Changes in our gut microbiome

The science continues to evolve in this fascinating field, but one thing is clear:

Food allergies can and do occur in families even without any history of allergic disease.

"If you have one you know how it can knock you down."

Mike... those words are so true!

These words from NBC sportscaster Mike Tirico yesterday at the Kentucky Derby capture the sudden, overwhelming reality of food allergies.

Mr. Tirico had to step away from coverage after experiencing what he called a "significant reaction" to his nut allergy.

The truth is......

Food allergies don't wait for convenient moments.

Food Allergies do not care!

They don't care if you're covering the Derby or in a boardroom meeting. And when you have a reaction, everything will come to a screeching life-threatening halt...

As a board certified allergist, and a food allergy mom I want to emphasize three main life-saving tips:

Food allergies affect people across all professions and demographics and ages.

Reactions can occur unexpectedly, even in familiar settings.

Having your epinephrine auto-injector epinphring nasal spray with you at all times is not only essential but life-saving.

Churchill Downs' immediate medical response demonstrates why all venues must have proper emergency protocols.

Quick action saves lives.

**Mr. Tirico, I am wishing you a speedy and full recovery!***

Mike Tirico exits NBC Kentucky Derby coverage after suffering nut allergy reaction Veteran sportscaster Mike Tirico was a late scratch at the 2025 Kentucky Derby because of a nut allergy reaction.

Hi there.... from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology conference in San Diego!

While I miss seeing all my wonderful patients and staff, I'm busy learning about the latest treatments and research in food allergy care and general allergy care.

I'm excited to return to the office soon and put these new insights to work!

This year, I’m not hosting Thanksgiving! 😊

When I do host, I always feel confident that my kids can eat safely, enjoy the meal, and avoid any food allergy mishaps. But this year, while I’m secretly thrilled not to be running around cooking and planning, it comes with its own unique challenges.

As a food allergy mom, I’m running through my mental checklist to make sure my kiddos can safely enjoy the holiday, even when we’re guests.

Here’s my Food Allergy Mom Checklist before heading out for Thanksgiving dinner!

🙏🏿 Confirm the menu in advance – ✔️
🙏🏿 Reach out to the host to ask about ingredients and cross-contact risks – ✔️
🙏🏿 Pack safe favorites – Bring allergen-free desserts – ✔️
🙏🏿 Double-check emergency meds – Each kiddo needs two sets of epinephrine auto-injectors and antihistamines – ✔️
🙏🏿 Have “the talk” with family members – A gentle reminder about allergy safety – ✔️
🙏🏿 Coach the kids – Remind them to ask about every dish and stay vigilant – ✔️
🙏🏿 Give myself grace – Prepare for unexpected hiccups and remember it’s okay to take a step back if needed – ✔️

I’m grateful for the resilience of my kids, who navigate their allergies with so much strength.

I’m also incredibly thankful for the friends and family who have hosted my kids for after-school hangouts or sleepovers and made the effort to ask, “What do they need?” or “How can I prepare safely?”

If you’re hosting a food allergy family this Thanksgiving, thank you for your grace, patience, and thoughtfulness as we all come together to celebrate. 🙏🏿

Wishing everyone a safe, joyful, and delicious holiday! 🍂✨