Articles Index

Sulfa Drug Allergy
Allergic reactions to sulfa medications, also called sulfonamides, are a common occurrence. Many people avoid the entire class of sulfa medications - although this may not be necessary. Find out more about how sulfa allergy occurs, how the diagnosis is made, and what medications should be avoided.

Sulfa Allergy and Sulfite Allergy
There is much confusion regarding allergy to sulfa-containing drugs, sulfite as a preservative agent in foods and medications, sulfate salts of medications and the chemical element sulfur. Many of my patients assume that if they are allergic to one of these agents, then they are allergic to all of them. This is not necessarily true.

Aspirin Allergy
Allergy to aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is a common occurrence, especially for people with asthma and sinus problems. Find out the symptoms of NSAID allergy, how this disease process is diagnosed, and the treatment options available.

Iodine Contrast Allergy
Many people have experienced reactions as a result of receiving IV dye for a radiologic study. Most of these reactions are mild, but some can be severe, even life-threatening. Learn more about why these reactions occur, common myths related to these reactions, and how these reactions can be prevented in the future.

Latex Allergy Symptoms
Latex allergy is common among healthcare works and people who have undergone multiple surgeries. Many people with latex allergy notice that they are also allergic to certain foods, which are related to the proteins found in latex. Find out the common symptoms for latex allergy, how it is diagnosed, and ways to treat it.

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome
Do you experience a variety of symptoms with exposure to odors, smells, pollutants and cigarette smoke? Do doctors tell you that they can't find anything wrong? If so, you may have the multiple chemical sensitivity syndrome. Learn about the controversy surrounding this disease, what the most common causes are, and various methods that are used to diagnose and treat this debilitating disease.

Drug Allergy
Start here for a basic overview of allergic and non-allergic reactions to medications. Specific medications are covered, along with information on symptoms, avoidance, and possible testing for allergies to certain medications.

Treatment of Medication Allergies
Learn how reactions to medications are treated.

Vaccines and Food Allergy
Find out how having certain food allergies may predispose you to having allergic reactions to some vaccines.

What is the Latex-Food Syndrome?
Are you allergic to latex? If so, there is a good chance that you may also be allergic to at least one of a large group of fruits and vegetables that share similar proteins with latex. Find out about the latex-food syndrome and what should be done to diagnose this problem.

Glucosamine and Shellfish Allergy
Glucosamine is a common dietary supplement used in the treatment of arthritis. Because it is made from the shells of shrimp, crab and lobster, it is not recommended for people with shellfish allergy. Find out more about the possible link between glucosamine and shellfish allergy, and why it may be possible for people with shellfish allergy to take this supplement.