#Patch Testing

[frontierallergy]

Unveiling the Enigma of Alpha-Gal: Unanticipated Allergies When Ticks Transform Meat into a Health Risk

In a culinary landscape where new flavors and dishes often bring joy, imagine savoring a delectable steak or burger only to face an unexpected allergic reaction, turning the simple act of consuming meat into a potential health concern. This perplexing phenomenon is none other than the Alpha-Gal tick meat allergy, a genuine mystery that has captivated scientists and garnered attention from the medical community in recent times. Join us as we delve into the captivating realm of Alpha-Gal and unravel the intricate connections between ticks, meat, and the human immune system.

Understanding the Alpha-Gal Relationship

Alpha-Gal, short for "alpha-galactose," is a carbohydrate molecule naturally found in the organs of many non-primate animals. Remarkably absent in humans and other primates, it becomes an alien substance triggering immune responses under specific circumstances, such as tick bites. Research indicates that individuals bitten by ticks are more likely to develop red meat allergies, suggesting a correlation between tick exposure and altered immune reactions to alpha-gal.

The link between Alpha-Gal and ticks was established in the early 2000s in regions like the southeastern United States and parts of Europe, where ticks like the Lone Star ticks are prevalent. When these ticks bite humans, alpha-gal molecules enter the bloodstream, prompting the immune system to produce antibodies against them.

Mechanism of Allergic Reaction

The Alpha-Gal allergy unfolds in a series of steps:

Tick Bite: Alpha-Gal-carrying ticks acquire alpha-gal molecules from the blood of the animals they feed on, incorporating them into their saliva. When these ticks bite humans, the saliva containing alpha-gal is introduced into the bloodstream.

Immune Response: The immune system recognizes alpha-gal as foreign and generates antibodies, specifically Immunoglobulin E (IgE).

Delayed Reaction: Unlike immediate allergic reactions, Alpha-Gal allergies take time to develop. Symptoms typically surface 3 to 6 hours after consuming red meat, complicating the identification of the trigger.

Diagnosis and Symptoms

Diagnosing Alpha-Gal allergies poses challenges due to delayed symptoms and the need for specialized blood tests. Symptoms may include hives, itching, swelling, gastrointestinal discomfort, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis. Timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial given the potential seriousness of reactions associated with this allergy.

Managing Alpha-Gal Allergies

Living with an Alpha-Gal allergy requires careful lifestyle adjustments:

Elimination of Trigger Foods: Avoiding foods containing alpha-galactose, such as red meat and gelatin-containing products, is essential.

Tick Control: Minimize tick exposure through protective clothing, tick repellents, and avoiding tick habitats.

Educating Healthcare Professionals: Raise awareness among healthcare professionals about the unique features and testing requirements for Alpha-Gal allergies.

Emergency Planning: Individuals prone to severe allergic reactions should carry an EpiPen and know how to use it in case of emergencies.

Future Research Directions

Ongoing scientific research aims to enhance our understanding of Alpha-Gal allergies, exploring new diagnostic procedures, desensitization medications, and strategies to reduce tick populations.In conclusion, the investigation into Alpha-Gal allergies uncovers a fascinating connection between ticks, meat, and allergic reactions. If you suspect Alpha-Gal-related allergic symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to assist you.

[reignsupreme-inyourdreams]

Undergoing patch testing this week, it’s been an hour and a half since everything was applied and I already have an itch starting 😭

[newcastleskinmedical]

Why Patch Testing Is Important Why Patch Testing Is Important

When patch testing isn’t done properly, it can put systems at risk and cause serious problems. This is why it’s important to test patches in a virtual environment before rolling them out in production.

Avoid scratching the patches on your back, as this can irritate the skin and dislodge the patches. You should also take care not to shower or sweat, as this may affect the results.

At-Home Patch Testing

While at-home patch testing tests may help to pinpoint which ingredients you're allergic or sensitive to, it's important to remember that they won't differentiate between an allergy and irritation. "If you're reacting to a product and your skin turns red, itchy or flaky, an at-home patch test might just tell you that you are sensitive to an ingredient," says dermatologist Marisa Garshick.

During a professional patch test, which typically takes place in a dermatologist's office, a series of plastic or aluminum square chambers filled with suspected allergens are taped to your upper back for 48 hours. You must avoid bathing, swimming or any activities that will cause sweating during this time.

The test is designed to expose your skin to a range of substances, including nickel sulfate and potassium dichromate, in order to measure your reaction. A negative result indicates that your skin does not have an allergy to any of the chemicals tested. A positive result means that the product or chemical causing your allergy was found. Retesting with additional chemicals is sometimes necessary.

In-Office Patch Testing

The good news is that a dermatologist can help you figure out your allergy triggers in-office. During this type of patch test, we will apply a series of tape strips to your back that have various allergens embedded in them. You will need to wear the patches for 48 hours, and you can’t get them wet (this includes showering or bathing). We’ll mark your skin with ink where the patches are placed so we can make sure they are where they should be.

The standard patch test includes 35 different allergens incorporated into hydrophilic gels. We may add additional allergens if you have an extensive work history or are suspicious of certain allergies. The test can also determine whether your rash is caused by an irritant or an allergic reaction.

We can also use patch testing to identify specific allergens for those whose rashes are work-related, such as those who are allergic to metals, latex or adhesives used in their profession. We’ll provide education on how to avoid these allergens and recommend alternative products for you to try.

Symptoms

When a person is allergic to something, it can cause a skin reaction. This is called contact dermatitis and can look like red, itchy, bumpy skin. The rash usually clears up when the offending substance is removed from the skin.

Skin tests can help determine which allergens are responsible for symptoms. These may include chemicals, fragrances and metals. Patients should bring a list of products they use at home and work along with safety data sheets to show their provider. Drug allergies, such as to penicillin or some older immunosuppressive drugs, are not easily tested with skin testing but can be diagnosed using other methods.

During a patch test, patches are applied to the patient's back. They remain occluding for 48 hours, and the dermatologist reads the results at day 5. Patients must avoid showers, soaking the area or sun exposure while the tests are in place. They should also not take oral antihistamines or steroids, which can interfere with the results.

Results

patch testing allergies identifies the substances or allergens responsible for your contact dermatitis. These substances may include plants; metals, such as nickel in jewelry or buckles; rubber and plastics; cleaning chemicals; fragrances; cosmetics; preservatives; and more. Your doctor will select the allergen series most appropriate for your history and circumstances.

A positive result indicates you are sensitized to a particular allergen and that it is causing your rash. The results vary from a small skin rash with a little swelling to red bumps and blisters. Obtaining accurate test results requires training and experience in applying the tests, reading them correctly and considering relevance.

Medications, such as antihistamines and heartburn medicines, can interfere with the results of the test. If you have to take medication, be sure to tell your doctor ahead of time so it can be adjusted if necessary. You should also avoid wetting the area where the patches are placed. Scratching the skin can irritate it and dislodge the patch, resulting in an inaccurate reading.

[johnlarian]

My kink is karma (avenging the drowned).

[kkaags]

wanted to see how far i could push c+

[strawberri-draws]

she's testing her patience..

[mean-girl-astarion]

I play this game for the plot

FOR THE PLOT

(but that forehead kiss really did add a year or two to my life)

[donutfloats]

What were Narinder and the Lamb’s reactions to finding out they’re having kids?

It was definitely… unexpected

The lamb had been under the weather for some time, so begrudgingly visited Kallamar at the medical tent by Narinder’s demand.

At first it was a joke by Kallamar that the Lamb do a pregnancy test after they came back clean as a whistle, but this did spark the idea in the Lamb’s head of “what if?”

So two or so days later, they got their answer

Don’t worry Kallamar was fine

[alfynnlin]

Lae'zel:

The rest of the team:

[aliciadessendre]

NETHHIRI asmodeus tiefling · bard · urchin BALDUR'S GATE 3 (2023) dev. Larian Studios

[frontierallergy]

Exploring Oak Allergy: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you curious about the impact of oak pollen on vision-related issues and the broader spectrum of oak allergy symptoms beyond just pollen? Are you interested in understanding pollen food allergy syndrome and the most effective treatment options available? These are common questions encountered by our allergy and asthma specialists. Let's delve into these concerns and address them comprehensively.

The Golden Hues of Oak

While oak trees contribute to the lush greenery of Texas, they can make life challenging for some individuals during the spring allergy season. With over 450 varieties of oak trees and shrubs, these pollen-producing trees are not limited to rural areas; they can be found in urban settings as well. The extensive pollen shed by these trees, carried across vast distances by the wind, makes it nearly impossible to evade these airborne allergens.

Have you ever noticed the yellow dust settling on your car after parking under an oak tree? Within a short span, the sticky yellow residue can accumulate and potentially trigger allergic reactions.

Allergy Season and Recognizable Symptoms

The oak allergy season typically peaks from March to May, with the highest pollen counts observed in March and April. Millions of pollen particles fill the air during this period, wreaking havoc on sinus health. Individuals allergic to oak pollen can mitigate their exposure by monitoring local pollen counts and taking preventive measures.

Commonly reported oak allergy symptoms include sneezing, coughing, runny nose, red or itchy eyes, throat or nasal itchiness, fatigue, and dark circles under the eyes. Ignoring initial symptoms may lead to more severe reactions.

Understanding Pollen Food Allergy Syndrome

If you experience throat or mouth itchiness after consuming raw vegetables or fresh fruits during allergy season, you may be dealing with Pollen Food Allergy Syndrome (PFAS) or Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS). This syndrome arises because the immune system recognizes proteins in certain fruits and vegetables as similar to oak pollen.

Approximately 25 percent of allergic rhinitis patients also suffer from OAS. To avoid complications, individuals with this syndrome should steer clear of foods that induce mouth itching or tingling, including strawberries, celery, soy, peanuts, carrots, cherries, peaches, hazelnuts, apples, eggs, and chestnuts.

Allergic Conjunctivitis and Vision Problems

Oak pollen can lead to red, itchy, and watery eyes, potentially causing vision problems if left unattended. Allergists recommend antihistamines or allergy eye drops for relief from these symptoms. A thorough examination of your eyes and medical history by an allergist can determine if oak allergy is the underlying cause.

Testing and Diagnosis for Comprehensive Allergy Management

Beyond oak pollen, allergies can be triggered by weed, grass, peanuts, bee stings, pet dander, and mold. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and symptom management. Board-certified allergists, such as Dr. Neha Reshamwala, may recommend tests like skin prick testing, intradermal skin tests, or blood tests to identify specific allergens.

Managing Allergies: Strategies and Treatment Options

Three primary approaches exist for managing allergies:

Exposure Reduction: Avoiding pollen and certain foods known to cause allergies is the first line of defense. Strategies include checking daily pollen counts, keeping doors and windows closed during high pollen periods, going outdoors in the evening, taking a hot shower upon returning home, daily vacuuming, and using dehumidifiers or HEPA filters.

Pharmacological Medications: Allergy medicines and nasal sprays are commonly prescribed to alleviate symptoms.

Allergen Immunotherapy: This involves administering oral drops or shots with small doses of allergens to build resistance over time. Allergy shots can significantly reduce or eliminate symptoms as the immune system develops tolerance to oak pollen.

By adopting these strategies and treatment options, individuals can effectively manage oak allergies, leading to improved overall well-being and reduced allergic reactions over time.

[italyveneziano]

No thoughts only Vene

[enemywasp]

I didn't think I'd care for season 2 of black butler when I started watching it but it did get me thinking about the way the demon/master ships work and how it makes sense for them to lack boundaries or be romantically/sexually charged

Alois is more direct as the anime went for a far more clear route at showing his backstory and trauma. He is clingy and throws himself at people, often seeming to deliberately trying to rile them up or get close with them even tho they are way older, cause that's the only kind of love he ever got in the end.

After his brother died he was without love for ages, until his new "father" took him in who "loved" him, but used him as a sex toy.

So now he sort of clings onto that dynamic, uses his looks, and often makes almost advances at Claude like that's the only way he knows to gain love and approval.

Wheras Ciel is the opposite. He had a loving family for longer than Alois and was not brought into his trauma through any pretence of love. He was caged and sold to the highest bidder. Defiled and laughed at in groups as they wanted to make him impure and the perfect sacrifice for their cult.

So now he avoids touch, he backs away from closeness, and almost every time we see him have breakdowns or flashbacks, he hides away from people's hands. Often only ever leaning on younger people or Sebastian. His saviour.

He has learnt not to trust or let anyone close, but Sebastian is his exception cause he can't hurt him. He hides himself away from affection, and other than the incident with master sullivan, Sebastian is the only one who can push those boundaries to an extent. As Ciel sees him as a lifeline.

It actually makes a lot of sense the way Ciel and Alois cling to their respective butlers. And given those butlers are demons and not bound by human morals, it would be no surprise if they encouraged that dependency.

[newcastleskinmedical]

Why Patch Testing Is Important

When patch testing isn’t done properly, it can put systems at risk and cause serious problems. This is why it’s important to test patches in a virtual environment before rolling them out in production.

Avoid scratching the patches on your back, as this can irritate the skin and dislodge the patches. You should also take care not to shower or sweat, as this may affect the results.

At-Home Patch Testing

While at-home patch testing tests may help to pinpoint which ingredients you're allergic or sensitive to, it's important to remember that they won't differentiate between an allergy and irritation. "If you're reacting to a product and your skin turns red, itchy or flaky, an at-home patch test might just tell you that you are sensitive to an ingredient," says dermatologist Marisa Garshick.

During a professional patch test, which typically takes place in a dermatologist's office, a series of plastic or aluminum square chambers filled with suspected allergens are taped to your upper back for 48 hours. You must avoid bathing, swimming or any activities that will cause sweating during this time.

The test is designed to expose your skin to a range of substances, including nickel sulfate and potassium dichromate, in order to measure your reaction. A negative result indicates that your skin does not have an allergy to any of the chemicals tested. A positive result means that the product or chemical causing your allergy was found. Retesting with additional chemicals is sometimes necessary.

In-Office Patch Testing

The good news is that a dermatologist can help you figure out your allergy triggers in-office. During this type of patch test, we will apply a series of tape strips to your back that have various allergens embedded in them. You will need to wear the patches for 48 hours, and you can’t get them wet (this includes showering or bathing). We’ll mark your skin with ink where the patches are placed so we can make sure they are where they should be.

The standard patch test includes 35 different allergens incorporated into hydrophilic gels. We may add additional allergens if you have an extensive work history or are suspicious of certain allergies. The test can also determine whether your rash is caused by an irritant or an allergic reaction.

We can also use patch testing to identify specific allergens for those whose rashes are work-related, such as those who are allergic to metals, latex or adhesives used in their profession. We’ll provide education on how to avoid these allergens and recommend alternative products for you to try.

Symptoms

When a person is allergic to something, it can cause a skin reaction. This is called contact dermatitis and can look like red, itchy, bumpy skin. The rash usually clears up when the offending substance is removed from the skin.

Skin tests can help determine which allergens are responsible for symptoms. These may include chemicals, fragrances and metals. Patients should bring a list of products they use at home and work along with safety data sheets to show their provider. Drug allergies, such as to penicillin or some older immunosuppressive drugs, are not easily tested with skin testing but can be diagnosed using other methods.

During a patch test, patches are applied to the patient's back. They remain occluding for 48 hours, and the dermatologist reads the results at day 5. Patients must avoid showers, soaking the area or sun exposure while the tests are in place. They should also not take oral antihistamines or steroids, which can interfere with the results.

Results

patch testing allergies identifies the substances or allergens responsible for your contact dermatitis. These substances may include plants; metals, such as nickel in jewelry or buckles; rubber and plastics; cleaning chemicals; fragrances; cosmetics; preservatives; and more. Your doctor will select the allergen series most appropriate for your history and circumstances.

A positive result indicates you are sensitized to a particular allergen and that it is causing your rash. The results vary from a small skin rash with a little swelling to red bumps and blisters. Obtaining accurate test results requires training and experience in applying the tests, reading them correctly and considering relevance.

Medications, such as antihistamines and heartburn medicines, can interfere with the results of the test. If you have to take medication, be sure to tell your doctor ahead of time so it can be adjusted if necessary. You should also avoid wetting the area where the patches are placed. Scratching the skin can irritate it and dislodge the patch, resulting in an inaccurate reading.

[alwachart]

Bonus smirk

[dognonsense]

New series of patches I made with linocut that I'm selling to people at punk shows. Heading to a backyard punk show rnow and to another show with my friends band. Hyped :3!