Let‘s Clear the Air! All Things Allergy, Asthma & Immunology!

Host Liz Edwards and Dr. Michael Norvell provide an overview of biologics in this episode of "Let's Clear the Air!"  The Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center began using biologics for asthma in 2010. Since then, biologics have been on a fast path of development. These molecularly engineered products operate on a very small scale and are different from typically prescribed or over-the-counter medicines, which use chemicals to initiate a physical response.  Listen to learn more about the superior safety profiles of biologics, their multiple uses within the allergy and asthma specialty, and their proven effectiveness. 

Board-certified allergist Dr. Paul Carter and host Liz Edwards discuss all the tools in the specialist's toolbox for an accurate asthma diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. Beginning with the allergic march, Dr. Carter reviews the progression of allergies to asthma and its telltale symptoms. He explains what a first visit looks like, what triggers can exacerbate asthma, and how a diagnosis is made. Dr. Carter also describes the different levels of asthma, their corresponding treatment options, and how those treatments work. But most importantly, he reveals the significant impact effective treatment can have on a patient's quality of life.  Learn more about the allergist's asthma toolbox in this episode of Let's Clear the Air!

In this episode of Let's Clear the Air, Dr. Nicholas Cline talks with host Marcella Feathers about a process known as Oral Food Challenge. Used to either clear or definitively determine a food allergy, the oral food challenge takes place in a controlled setting. For folks who may have been food allergic but are now testing negative via a skin test, or for anyone who has a blood test result of 2 or less, a food challenge can provide certainty. By introducing the allergic food in small, increasing doses, your allergist can watch for reactions, such as a drop in blood pressure, hives, and wheezing, and respond accordingly.  Listen to learn more about who is a good candidate for an oral food challenge and how the certainty of a diagnosis (or lack thereof) can be empowering.

Host Liz Edwards introduces us to Dr. Pragya Shrestha, a deeply caring and naturally curious board-certified allergist at our Middle Tennessee clinics. Originally from Nepal, Dr. Shrestha has extensive experience in allergy, asthma and immunology. She has worked and trained at Reading Hospital in Pennsylvania, Mayo Clinic, and Vanderbilt. Curious about the workings of the human body at a young age, she was able to solidify her interest in the medical field by volunteering at a hospital during high school. After seeing the depth and scope of the field of allergy, asthma and immunology, Dr. Shrestha was ready to combine her love of deep investigative work to uncovering the root cause of allergic and asthmatic symptoms. Dr. Shrestha's devotion to making a significant difference in her patients' lives is obvious. From enabling them to overcome seasonal allergy symptoms, to improving an eczema or urticaria patient's confidence, to seeing a child's excitement at his first successful bite of Nutella during a food challenge, Dr. Shrestha thrives on seeing her patients thrive! Learn more about Dr. Pragya Shrestha's passions and curiosities in this episode of "Let's Clear the Air!" 

Join us as host Marcella Feathers talks with board-certified allergist Dr. Phil Jones about overcoming the effects of asthma. To paraphrase Dr. Jones: you shouldn't accept the symptoms of asthma...you should be able to do anything you want to do! Dr. Jones starts by defining asthma and its different triggers, explaining the relevance of chronic, episodic, and hyper-responsive reactions. He also explains how infectious diseases can trigger asthma in adults and what various treatments are available. As asthma specialists, allergists can provide very unique, individualized treatment plans to ensure patients' specific symptoms don't interfere with daily activities. Learn how the affects of asthma can be reversed, why Dr. Jones tells patients that lung health is tied to nose health, and why physicians avoid prescribing alternative options (labeled "food supplements") as medication--all in this episode of Let's Clear the Air!

Host Liz Edwards introduces us to Dr. Paul Carter, a man of many interests and skills! Dr. Carter shares how he landed on allergy, asthma and immunology as a career after spending time as an EMT, paramedic, and trauma surgeon (to name a few).  Dr. Carter is also walking proof of the effectiveness of allergy shots. Allergic to cats and horses, he now owns three cats and enjoys attending equestrian-themed shows.  Listen as he shares about his time in the Air Force, including his current service with the Air National Guard, working at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, and how we can avoid severe allergy symptoms with allergy shots, a way to "healthy up" our immune systems!  

Spring and summer mean warmer weather and fresh fruit and vegetables. But if you've noticed your lips or mouth itching or tingling after eating a raw fruit or vegetable, you may have OAS.  Oral Allergy Syndrome (also known as Pollen Food Allergy Syndrome) can occur when people who suffer from certain tree, grass, or weed pollens eat specific fruits, vegetables, or nuts. Dr. Phil Jones explains why this cross-reactivity occurs and how you may be able to minimize your discomfort while still enjoying the fruits of the season! For more information on OAS and a helpful pollen-food association chart, visit our web page: https://www.allergyasc.com/oas. 

Let's get to know Dr. Nicholas Cline! Dr. Cline completed his medical degree at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia, and his residency at the University of Tennessee School of Medicine in Knoxville. His love for the field of allergy and immunology was sparked during his allergy rotation. A long-term sufferer of allergies himself, Dr. Cline discovered not only his medical calling but also a diagnosis and lasting relief! After UT, Dr. Cline moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where he completed his fellowship training at the acclaimed Cleveland Clinic. Working with more than 30 faculty in the specialty, Dr. Cline was able to experience and learn from a wide array of cases and clinical solutions.  Listen as Dr. Nicholas Cline shares his intense commitment to helping patients understand their diagnoses and treatment plans, his lasting appreciation for his time at Cleveland Clinic, and his extensive knowledge of all things allergy – from Georgia to Ohio, through Kentucky to Tennessee.  

Host Liz Edwards speaks with Dr. Poneh Heine about "all things" related to spring allergy season. Georgia is already seeing lots of tree and grass pollen, starting this spring with a bang! Dr. Heine shares how you can navigate this season and upcoming ones as pollen counts continue to climb. (While medications can help, Dr. Heine explains why they're not a long-term solution, especially when the pollen count can exceed 8,000 per cubic meter!) With skin testing and allergy shots, you can avoid the drowsy, drying side effects of allergy medications. Learn how immunotherapy can help your immune system keep from over-reacting to pollens and other allergens. Also, Dr. Heine shares how her daughter's allergic eye reactions led to oral allergy syndrome, causing mouth irritation whenever she ate apples or carrots. You can avoid worsening inflammation, irritations like OAS, and infections. Listen to this episode to learn how.

We're excited to introduce one of our newest providers, Nurse Practitioner Sharon Lever! After several years as a respiratory therapist in New Hampshire, Sharon went back to school to achieve her ultimate goal of becoming a nurse practitioner, focusing on pulmonology and then transitioning into the allergy field.  Sharon is a certified asthma educator and a competitive trap shooter! She's also ready to explore all the area offers, including regional NASCAR tracks. Listen to learn more about Nurse Practitioner Sharon Lever, her love of treating patients, and why we're excited to welcome her to our practice.  

Our pollen counts have begun for 2025, but what's involved in counting the pollen and why should we care? Dr. Laura Green talks with host Marcella Feathers about how the pollen count is gathered and why awareness of the day's count can be important for allergic and asthmatic folks. From tree pollens traveling hundreds of miles to the tenacity of mold spores here in the South, listen as Dr. Green provides insight into our ever-worsening pollen seasons and possible solutions for seasonal and year-round sufferers. (Sign up for weekday pollen counts here.)

Host Liz Edwards and Dr. Michael Norvell jump right into spring allergies! Did you know that in Middle Tennessee, tree pollen starts to show in late February, sometimes even sooner? Now is the time to be prepared. Dr. Norvell offers tips for when over-the-counter medications aren't helping or when you're not sure what's causing your symptoms. In either situation, he urges patients to err on the side of caution. The sooner you know, the sooner you can feel better.  Dr. Norvell shares insight on skin testing, easing fears for any needle-phobic patients, and how allergy shots are different from the often confused steroid shots, too.  He also explains when patients can expect relief if new to immunotherapy and how this "modification" of the immune system is customized to each patient's specific need. Learn how to be prepared this spring, whether new to the Nashville/Middle Tennessee area or a native, by listening to this episode of Let's Clear the Air!

Host Liz Edwards welcomes Sung Poblete, PhD, RN and CEO of FARE, for our special Valentine's Day edition! Dr. Poblete and the Food Allergy Research & Education organization are valuable resources for anyone who is food allergic or knows someone who is, and with more than 33 million food-allergic people in the United States, that covers most of us! Dr. Poblete shares the importance of FARE's initiatives to promote health and health equity as they work to find a cure and better treatment therapies for people with food allergies. Dr. Poblete also makes an important distinction between food and food allergies: food is NOT the enemy, the disease is.  Listen as Dr. Poblete and Liz discuss the staggering statistics of food allergy reactions in schools and how easy and important it is to provide non-food holiday items that everyone can enjoy.  For more information about FARE and for their many resources, including the Emergency Care Plan and the Toolkit for Food Allergies in the Classroom mentioned in this podcast, visit FoodAllergy.org.   

Dr. Phil Jones helps us unwrap the trappings of holiday foods for food allergic patients, specifically those who are allergic to tree nuts. Hazelnuts, walnuts, pistachios...all the nutty flavors added to our favorite holiday helpings can cause pollen-food allergy syndrome for people allergic to certain tree pollens as well as life-threatening symptoms for food-allergic patients. Dr. Jones shares how various food testing strategies can better identify these allergies and how you can be prepared for possible exposure. He also introduces us to the newest alternative to needle epinephrine: Neffy.  

Dr. Jeana Bush talks with host Liz Edwards about the whirlwind of fall allergies this season.  What's brewing? According to Dr. Bush, it's the heat allowing spring tree and grass pollens to continue to disperse as well as the sprouting of fall's ragweed. And as a result of Hurricane Helene, all of the southeast is experiencing atmospheric changes and mold.  For any allergic symptom, whether it's itchy eyes, runny nose, coughing, or sneezing, Dr. Bush emphasizes how patients visit us wanting to "fix" the problem. This fix starts with a good patient history and testing, so that you know what's causing your symptoms! Then Dr. Bush presents her recommendations, but she acknowledges that it's a shared decision, one that usually involves immunotherapy. For improved symptoms, fewer medications, improved lung function, and fewer infections, patients are often surprised by how much better they feel on allergy shots. They're not a drug or steroids, but they do facilitate a natural process. Listen to learn more how you can reeducate your immune system and fix the problem of fall allergies. 

Host Liz Edwards introduces us to Dr. Jeana Bush, one of our board-certified allergists serving Georgia! Dr. Bush knew she wanted to be a doctor from an early age. Stories of her grandfather as the only physician in his area instilled in her a great respect and curiosity for the field. Finding her specialty in allergy and immunology was helped by an allergist she rotated with in Charlotte.  Dr. Bush's excitement in having “lightbulb” moments with patients, knowing that she can solve health issues they've struggled with, is palpable. Learn more about her love for helping patients of all ages – and her love of the Bulldogs and the Braves!

Host Liz Edwards talks with Dr. Turkessa Walker about fall allergies in Georgia. Despite the high temperatures, Georgia is experiencing some strong hints of fall, including an increase in weed and mold pollens. Dr. Walker explains more about both of the "big windows" (spring and fall) for high pollen exposure and worsening allergic symptoms. She also explains what you can expect during your first visit with an allergist. Learn how Dr. Walker can help you find the cause of your itchy eyes, stuffy nose, or asthmatic flares, and let her develop a treatment plan that's perfect for you!

Host Liz Edwards introduces a special treat for our Georgia audience: Dr. Turkessa Walker! She works in our Middle Georgia locations and is a native of the Peach State. Listen as Dr. Walker describes how she considered becoming an allergist in high school but took a bit of a detour into OB/GYN, only to end up circling back to allergy. She explains what she loves about allergy and the joy she gets from helping patients of all ages. Dr. Walker specialized in both internal medicine and pediatrics at Tulane University in New Orleans, which is where she also taught herself to knit (though she's quick to admit that the weather in Louisiana didn't really warrant that first wool sweater).  Learn more about Dr. Walker's hobbies, her love of the outdoors, and her confidence in getting seasonal allergic patients back to their favorite things. "I can change your life!"

Host Liz Edwards talks with Family Nurse Practitioner Kelsie Hannah about that dreaded fall weed: ragweed. Learn why ragweed and fall weeds in general can make you feel terrible as well as how changes in the weather can make even non-allergic people feel stuffy and fatigued.  If you're struggling with sinus infections, asthma exacerbations, itchy eyes, or pesky coughs, ragweed might be the culprit, and, according to Kelsie, we can have anywhere from six to 10 weeks of it. So come see us now! We can help!

Did you know that stinging insects become more aggressive in the late summer and early fall? Dr. Phil Jones explains why now is the time to be aware of their habitat and activity. He also shares some tips on how to identify an allergic reaction to a sting. Most importantly, though, Dr. Jones tell us how venom immunotherapy can help you breathe easier outside despite all the buzz!

Nurse Practitioner Brittany Harper and host Liz Edwards walk us through what to expect from a skin test! From preparations before the test to the therapy after, Brittany and Liz cover all the details. Learn what happens at each step, how many allergens are tested for different age groups, how long the initial scratch test takes (usually only 60 seconds!), and what all of this tells our providers. As Brittany says, "Patients love the outcome of allergy shots!" If you've ever wondered what those first steps to starting allergy shots are, this podcast's for you!

VFL professional athlete, DJ, motivational speaker, actor...Sterling Henton, aka Sterl The Pearl, exudes a huge amount of strength and stamina to "keep it movin'" on ballfields, basketball courts, and other venues around the world. So when an intense moment of fatigue forced him to a full stop, he knew something wasn't right. Listen to how Sterl's visit with board-certified allergist Dr. Karthik Krishnan rejuvenated this iconic man and what advice he has to give to others who may not be listening to their bodies or their friends.

Do you stand in the store medicine aisle for way too long wondering which medicine is best for your allergy symptoms? Do you forget why you have this nasal spray instead of that one? Is it this oral decongestant that keeps you up at night -- or is it the one that makes you sleepy? Host Liz Edwards and Dr. Megan Stauffer provide some insight about over-the-counter (OTC) medications, including which ones are effective within the hour, which ones should be taken weeks before your symptoms start, and which ones have unwanted side effects. Whether it's for congestion and stuffiness or itching and sneezing, this episode will help clear the air! 

Ever feel like the heat and humidity of summer make it difficult to breathe? You're not alone! Dr. Travis Cain and host Liz Edwards discuss why the summer months seem to take a firm hold of our noses and lungs, making it hard to take good, deep breaths. Whether you have asthma or allergies, the heat and moisture in summer months are ripe for mold, which causes nasal congestion and a general lousy feeling. Dr. Cain gives us some insight on what we can do to beat the heat and catch our breath again. 

Dr. James Kidd at our Louisiana clinics discusses all things summer allergy with host Liz Edwards.  Dr. Kidd describes when certain grass pollens are at their highest in Louisiana and why most people who have grass allergies in the South are probably already in a chronic phase of suffering. Learn how exercising outdoors during these summer months can trigger a slew of exercise-induced symptoms: urticaria, asthma, even anaphylaxis. (Dr. Kidd shares insight on food-dependent, exercise-induced anaphylaxis, too, which is common among elite athletes.) This podcast is packed with summer allergy tips about insect bites, bee stings, and heat-induced hives as well, so don't miss it!

Host Kaylie Francis talks with Dr. Jane Conley about anaphylaxis. Learn what it is, how it happens, and what to do when it happens. Dr. Conley also answers some common questions about when and how to use epinephrine. 

Host Liz Edwards introduces us to Dr. James Kidd, an allergist at our Louisiana offices who is Baton Rouge born and raised! Learn how Dr. Kidd became interested in medicine at an early age, why he chose allergy as his specialty, and what to expect during a first visit as a new patient. 

Host Liz Edwards introduces listeners to Dr. Ben Gaudin with our Louisiana offices! Dr. Gaudin comes from a family of LSU Tigers. He, his father, and all his siblings are LSU alumni. While they pursued careers in engineering, Dr. Gaudin chose the medical field, but he still finds many similarities between the two disciplines. Learn what attracted Dr. Gaudin to the field of allergy specifically, why the specialty has always taken a view of involving the patient in making any medical decisions, and why he believes allergists can make a big impact on the quality of people's lives. We also get some insight into Dr. Gaudin's love of reading, theater/musicals, and "old school" puzzle solving in the daily newspaper.  

It's hard to separate Dr. Phil Jones from the specialty his been practicing for more than 20 years, which is why this "Getting to Know" episode is a bit Dr. Jones, a bit asthma and pulmonology and a lot allergy. A native of the Tri-Cities in East Tennessee, Dr. Jones attend undergraduate and graduate school at the University of Alabama. He returned to Johnson City to serve the community he loves as both a pulmonologist and allergist. Learn the differences between the two disciplines, how newly onset asthma can happen to adults (as old as 84!), why confirming a penicillin allergy is easy and necessary, how allergists offer a life-saving fix for stinging insect or bee allergies, and much more! Oh, and if you know anyone with an old barn who wouldn't mind Dr. Jones rummaging around....

Host Liz Edwards talks with our Louisiana allergist Dr. Jeffery Franklin about an all-too-common allergy foe: respiratory allergies. These allergens affect our respiratory system, which is a fancy way of saying all things connected to how we breathe.  Respiratory allergies can make us feel run down and miserable, negatively impacting our quality of life. Sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, fatigue.... But Dr. Franklin shares how this is also where board-certified allergists can help the most! Learn how seeing an allergist can help you go from a low quality of life score (maybe a 2 or 3 while on several medications) to a 9 or 10! It's not a quick fix, but it is a long-term cure that makes folks who have experienced it wonder why they waited so long.

We're going to Louisiana! Host Liz Edwards introduces listeners to Dr. Jeffery Franklin, who sees patients at our Prairieville, Bluebonnet, and Goodwood locations.  Dr. Franklin shares how he knew he wanted to go into medicine from an early age, as early as four or five years old. As one of four boys, he may have been inspired by his pediatrician, whom they visited multiple times while growing up, but he also took advantage of every opportunity to learn more about the field as he grew, even taking time in high school to shadow an ENT.  Learn how Dr. Franklin chose allergy, asthma, and immunology and what he wishes more folks in South Louisiana knew about allergists and allergies (besides the fact that they do exist!). 

Host Liz Edwards introduces us to Family Nurse Practitioner Brittany Harper! Brittany always knew she'd be in some type of healthcare. Learn how her career unfolded into nursing and why this Nebraska-born CrossFitter loves seeing new patients.

Dr. John Overholt shares with host Liz Edwards some good news! Starting this summer, major manufacturers will cap patients' out-of-cost expense for inhalers. This restriction on pricing is long overdue as some patients are forced to limit the use of their inhalers because of its cost. Dr. Overholt shares how common it is for patients to use inhalers less frequently than prescribed and how dangerous that practice can be, creating more illness, more ER visits, and even the need for additional meds; but for those who can't afford the $400-$500 cost per month, it's a necessary maneuver. As Dr. Overholt explains, "A medication you can't afford is not a good medication." Learn when specific companies will begin capping their products and how this change will empower providers to prescribe the inhaler that works best for the patient instead of the one that's cheapest.

Host Liz Edwards talks with family nurse practitioner James (Jim) O'Rourke about the three medicines you should stop taking if you have allergies! Learn how these medications, reserved for acute or episodic infections, can become addictive if taken too often and for too long–and how they often make your symptoms worse! Jim and Liz discuss why it's wise to get an accurate diagnosis and how allergy specialists like Jim can help you find alternative treatment plans that are safer and more effective.

Join us as host Liz Edwards introduces us to family nurse practitioner James (Jim) O'Rourke. Jim had his first career in pharmaceuticals but was intrigued by the provider side of medicine. Years later, we're honored to have him helping patients in Middle Tennessee!

Spring is here, and with it comes the start of spring allergens. Host Kaylie Francis speaks with Dr. Nick Kolinsky about the season's pollinators.  Together, they bust the myth about Bradford pear trees and discuss Dr. Kolinsky's go-to for effective allergy relief: a 1-2 punch of nasal sprays and immunotherapy. Dr. Kolinsky also explains how spikes in spring allergens may cause patients with eczema or asthma to have more issues due to the "collective effect" of allergens. Learn what other symptoms to anticipate this season and how you can easily find the answers and the relief you need to enjoy the beauty of spring.

Host Liz Edwards joins Dr. Jane Choi to discuss the often-intimidating topic of infant food allergies, specifically egg.  Did you know that no child is "too young" for allergy testing? Dr. Choi describes the easy and reassuring process of skin testing and how, for little ones who have serious reactions, Xolair may be able to provide a much-needed safety net. Learn more about the symptoms to look for, what's involved in infant skin testing, and why we can be hopeful about future available treatments for our food-allergic children.

Dr. Travis Cain and host Liz Edwards meet again to discuss the latest news regarding a food-allergic individual's death despite taking epinephrine.  Dr. Cain shares how clinical testing doesn't always reflect "real world reactivity," and he emphasizes the importance of taking epinephrine as soon as symptoms begin, comparing it to an avalanche. "It's easier to stop it early on than once those symptoms start building and worsening."

Dr. Ty Prince shares with host Kaylie Francis the essentials for understanding epinephrine. Epinephrine is an emergency anaphylactic drug used to treat severe allergic reactions. The key to using it, according to Dr. Prince, is to use it early! Listen for more insights, such as what qualifies as an anaphylactic reaction and what position you should be in when you start to experience one.

Host Liz Edwards talks with Nurse Practitioner Clara Loter! Clara is originally from Iowa and had never had any allergy or asthma problems before moving to Tennessee. Now that she's here, she's a big supporter of immunotherapy and biologics. Listen as Clara shares how her experience as a nurse practitioner in the ICU during COVID led her to choose a career where she can keep people out of the hospital and improve their overall quality of life. 

Host Liz Edwards introduces us to Nurse Practitioner Kelsie Hannah. Kelsie grew up in Pleasant View, Tenn. She completed her undergraduate at Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, and her master's at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville.  Learn what attracted Kelsie to the field of medicine, how her 18-month-old daughter continues to fascinate her, and how her reading habits have changed since becoming a new mom. 

Dr. Travis Cain and host Liz Edwards discuss the importance of getting to know your epinephrine auto-injector: how to use it, when to use it, and what steps to take after using it. Whether you prefer the branded or generic version of injectors, this episode will help you refresh your plan of action should you or a loved one ever need it.

Host Kaylie Francis talks with Dr. Erin Rohman about the special care required by asthmatics and allergic folks during colder winter months. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or a binge watcher, colder weather can expose you to allergens and viruses that are unique to winter. Dr. Rohman shares tips for how you can stay healthy and active now – and in the coming spring.

Have you already seen your New Year's resolutions get waylaid by forgetfulness, bad weather, or Netfilx? It's not too late. Dr. Erin Rohman shares with host Kaylie Francis how you can get out of that winter rut in time to have your best year yet. Whether you need to move your body a bit more to help improve your mood or review your emergency med supply, Dr. Rohman has the tips to help! Hear for yourself how seeing your allergist, pacing while watching TV, or simply checking the expiration dates on your medicines can be easy steps that will get you back on track for a healthy, happy 2024.

Host Liz Edwards talks with Dr. Sarah Adams about the many nuances surrounding food allergies.  Whether you're concerned about introducing new foods to your infant or you're finding gluten creates more chaos than comfort, being able to define what is and isn't a food allergy can be difficult. Dr. Adams reviews what allergists look for to determine a food allergy and the importance of patient history and symptoms. She also shares how food allergies and eczema may (or may not) be connected and how an elimination diet, like going gluten free, can be a personal choice for a better quality of life.

Host Liz Edwards introduces us to Nurse Practitioner Alexi Slomin, who works in our Middle Tennessee clinics. Alexi is a Florida native who moved to Nashville for her residency at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital.  Learn more about Alexi's rich family history in medicine, why she believes it's "never a bad idea to see an allergist," and the variety of literary genres she enjoys reading during her spare time. 

Dr. Erin Rohman continues her conversation about Alpha-gal with host Kaylie Francis. Listen as she discusses ways to manage your symptoms and the natural progression of the syndrome.

Dr. Erin Rohman meets with host Kaylie Francis for an in-depth discussion about Alpha-gal. This first part of our two-part series includes a definition of Alpha-gal, what to expect and when to expect it if you do have a reaction, and how providers can make an accurate diagnosis. 

Do you have food allergies? If so, the holidays can be a stressful time. Office parties, family get-togethers, and nights out with friends should be anxiety-free; but when surprise ingredients can lead to unexpected allergic reactions, the holidays can quickly turn grim.   Dr. Nick Kolinksy and host Kaylie Francis share insights on how to remove some of that anxiety through education, asking questions, and being prepared! Listen to learn more.

RSV. The flu. Covid. As viruses circulate throughout our workplaces, schools, and homes, knowing what to do for a child's persistent cough can be like a guessing game. How can you tell if or when your child needs more care? Host Liz Edwards talks with Dr. Sarah Adams about deciphering the meaning behind your child's cough. First, Dr. Adams suggests patience. Did you know that a cough can last up to six weeks after a virus has run its course? With the "tincture of time," most coughs will dissipate or can be treated with minimal effort, especially when the alternatives, like over-the-counter decongestants and cough suppressants, aren't really effective. Things like steam showers and intermittent use of humidifiers can offer relief; but, if your child's cough remains persistent, if s/he has trouble breathing during physical activities or at night, or if more and more steroids are needed, it may be time to look for other contributing factors.  Every child is different, so if you're concerned about your child's cough, listen to this episode to learn more. As Dr. Adams says, "(We) get so excited helping kids! Because when you help a person's child, you help the family."

Dr. Erin Rohman talks with host Kaylie Francis about a simple three-step plan for ensuring you have a safe, enjoyable holiday this season. Whether you have asthma, food allergies, or environmental allergies, Dr. Rohman has a plan for you! Don't end up at an urgent care clinic or worse, the emergency room, while friends and family are being festive. Follow Dr. Rohman's advice to be at your best for all the things: from decorating to parades, holiday feasts to staying overnight in a new environment. Dr. Rohman and Kaylie give the best steps for, as Kaylie says, "staying merry!"