Do you suffer from sneezing fits, runny noses, or mysterious rashes from everyday items? Let’s break down why allergies happen and how to take control.

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell talk to Dr. Amanda Lewis, a board-certified allergist and immunologist, about the world of allergies. They uncover the science behind allergic reactions, discuss common allergens, and delve into specific types like drug hypersensitivity, food allergies, and hay fever. Hear about effective treatments, including why some children can outgrow allergies while others might not. The doctors also explore the topic of allergy testing and whether or not those popular home kits hold any real value.

Dr. Lewis discusses: 

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• Why our immune system overreacts to allergens
  
• The distinction between drug intolerance and true allergies
  
• Common symptoms and management of food allergies
  
• Effective treatments for allergic rhinitis and the benefits of allergen immunotherapy
  
• The details of allergy testing and if those home kits are worth your time
  
• And more
  

Resources:

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• AAAA: Allergies Overview
  
• AAAA: 5 Food Allergy Myths, Debunked
  
• AAFP: Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis
  
• Cleveland Clinic: Allergy Shots
  
• Mayo Clinic: Allergy Skin Tests
  
• ACAAI: Food Allergy Testing and Diagnosis
  
• People Magazine: Joey King Shares Results of Allergy Test — and She’s Pretty Much Allergic to Everything
  

Connect with Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell: 

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• The Med Edit Podcast
  
• Instagram: @TheMedEditPodcast
  
• Facebook: The Med Edit Podcast
  
• LinkedIn: The Med Edit Podcast
  
• LinkedIn: Dr. Jessica Gray
  
• LinkedIn: Dr. Cari Sorrell
  

About Our Guest: 

Dr. Amanda Lewis is an allergist-immunologist in Lubbock, Texas and is affiliated with Covenant Children’s Hospital. She received her medical degree from University of Louisville School of Medicine and has been in practice between 11-20 years. Dr. Amanda Lewis has expertise in treating asthma, among other conditions – see all areas of expertise. Dr. Amanda Lewis accepts Medicare, Aetna, Humana, Cigna, Blue Cross, United Healthcare – see other insurance plans accepted.

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center:

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•  Continuing Medical Education Credit
  

In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and The Med Edit Podcast. Texas Tech University Health Science Center is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.