December Newletter

Sublinqual Immunotherapy (SLIT)

Sublinqual immunotherapy has been implemented and used at the Baker Allergy and Asthma Center for the past several years in the form of liquid drops to treat allergic rhinitis. SLIT is an alternative option to subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) for patients with 1-2 significant allergies. Instead of receiving an injection to treat allergic rhinitis, a few drops of the antigen medication are administered under the tongue (sublingually) once daily. The treatment course is for 3-5 years like SCIT, but can be administered at home instead of in the clinic.

SLIT has been used to treat allergies to dogs, cats, pollens and dust mites. For treatment of pollen allergies, SLIT should be administered 1-2 months prior to the beginning of pollen season for best results and continued throughout the pollen season, then repeated during the next pollen season for a total of 3-5 years. We have many patients who use SLIT for tree and grass pollen allergies during the pollen season. We are starting patients on SLIT for tree and grass pollen currently to prepare for the upcoming spring and summer seasons.

For treatment of perennial allergens, such as dust mites and pets, SLIT may be started at any time and needs to be administered year round. The type of antigens included in the SLIT bottles are customized to treat each individual patient's allergies.

If you are interested in learning more about SLIT for the treatment of allergic rhinitis, please contact us at 503-636-9011 for an appointment.

Allergic to the Holidays...

Although the pollen season is over, holiday gatherings and increased time spent indoors during the winter can leave people with allergies and asthma wondering if they are "allergic" to the holidays. From decorations to an increase in the stress during the holiday season, there are many components related to this time of celebration that can trigger allergies and asthma.

Christmas trees

If you develop symptoms of allergies or asthma around Christmas trees it's unlikely that you are allergic to the tree itself, but possibly the terpene in the oil/sap of the tree or the mold spores present on the tree, which can induce symptoms. Also, the fragrance of the tree may lead to non allergic rhinitis or asthma symptoms. To decrease chances of reacting to your tree you can use a leaf blower in a well-ventilated area to help remove some of the pollen. Also, washing live trees, especially the trunk, with a garden hose, then leaving it in a bucket of water in the garage to dry can decrease allergen exposure. It is helpful to wear gloves when handling the tree to avoid contact with the sap. In addition, artificial trees can harbor dust and mold if stored improperly. These trees can also be washed outside to help eliminate some of the dust or mold. When storing an artificial tree, place it in an air-tight bag or container to decrease allergen accumulation[1].

Decorations

Scented candles and potpourri, along with wood-burning fireplaces can lead to rhinitis and asthma symptoms. Ornaments and other decorations stored in attics and basements for months often gather dust and mold and can cause reactions when they are brought out of storage. Symptoms may be decreased by cleaning each item before decorating and when packing things away, storing them in airtight containers[1].

Stress and gatherings

While stress doesn't cause allergies or asthma, it can temporarily alter the effectiveness of your immune system. In addition, it may lead to asthma symptoms in some people, as chemicals released by the body during stressful times can cause the muscles around your airways to tighten. Also, when people gather, viral illnesses are more likely to be passed around and if you have asthma, it is important to discuss getting a flu shot with your doctor[1].

[1]American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (n.d.) Retrieved December 9, 2013 from http://www.acaai.org/allergist/news/New/Pages/avoiding-holiday-asthma-allergy-triggers.aspx