The Allergist

“I'm still getting told from families and other physicians that you can't make a diagnosis of asthma until they're six. Why?  Why is this still happening? We can diagnose preschoolers with asthma.”  -- Dr. Tiffany Wong

Join Dr. Mariam Hanna as she sits down with Dr. Tiffany Wong who pushes back on the persistent and unfounded skepticism about whether preschoolers can be diagnosed with asthma. Dr. Wong is an associate clinical professor at the University of British Columbia and the medical lead of the BC Children's Hospital allergy clinic. She covers the intricacies of diagnosing and managing preschool asthma, dispels common myths and emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis and effective management in young children.

On this episode:

Diagnosing Preschool Asthma:

Dr. Wong clarifies the myths and realities of diagnosing asthma in preschool children. She emphasizes that a detailed medical history and physical examination can often suffice, debunking the misconception that spirometry is always necessary.

Management Strategies:

Gain insights into effective management strategies for preschool asthma. Dr. Wong discusses the importance of categorizing patients according to their risk of future exacerbations, which helps in tailoring treatment plans for both healthcare providers and families.

Follow-Up Care:

The critical role of regular follow-up in managing preschool asthma is highlighted. Dr. Wong stresses that continuous monitoring allows for better understanding of each patient's evolving clinical narrative and ensures timely adjustments to treatment plans.

Empowering Families:

Learn how to support families dealing with preschool asthma. Dr. Wong provides valuable tips on training families to recognize and report symptoms accurately, ensuring they are equipped to manage their child's condition effectively.

Tune in to this episode for a deep dive into preschool asthma, with practical tips and expert insights for both healthcare providers and caregivers.

Have an idea for the show or a comment, send us a text!

Visit the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Find an allergist using our helpful tool

Find Dr. Hanna on X, previously Twitter, @PedsAllergyDoc or CSACI @CSACI_ca

The Allergist is produced for CSACI by PodCraft Productions

“When you fly, the flight attendant is always telling you, put on your oxygen mask first before you help somebody else. And it's so true. We’re way more efficient in a clinic setting when we have taken care of ourselves.”   -- Dr. Maureen Petersen

Dr. Mariam Hanna sits down with Dr. Maureen Petersen, a pediatric allergist and immunologist from North Carolina Chapel Hill to explore the challenges of managing chronic illness from the perspective of both the physician and the parent. Dr. Petersen brings a unique personal connection to this topic, having navigated her daughter's chronic illnesses while pursuing a medical career. 

On this episode:

Navigating Chronic Illness: Dr. Petersen shares her experiences with treating chronically ill children, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in patient-caregiver relationships. She illustrates the unique challenges faced by families and offers strategies to improve communication and support.

Physician's Perspective: Dr. Petersen discusses the impact of chronic illness on physicians, highlighting techniques for maintaining compassion and methods to avoid burnout while delivering high-quality care.

Self-Care for Physicians: Practical advice on how physicians can manage their well-being amidst demanding careers. Dr. Petersen emphasizes the importance of finding joy, setting personal goals, and prioritizing self-care to maintain a balanced and fulfilling medical career.

Empowering Families: Learn how to support families dealing with chronic illness. Dr. Petersen provides valuable tips on encouraging open communication, validating parent’s experiences, and offering necessary resources without overwhelming them, ensuring they feel seen and heard.

Tune in to this episode for an insightful discussion on the intricacies of chronic illness care and the vital role of self-care for physicians, offering practical advice and expert perspectives for healthcare providers and caregivers alike.

Have an idea for the show or a comment, send us a text!

Visit the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Find an allergist using our helpful tool

Find Dr. Hanna on X, previously Twitter, @PedsAllergyDoc or CSACI @CSACI_ca

The Allergist is produced for CSACI by PodCraft Productions

“I felt I was actually controlling my condition. It wasn't controlling me.” 

                                                                                                                        -- Patient of Dr. Philippe Begin

Join Dr. Mariam Hanna as she sits down with Dr. Philippe Begin, a renowned expert in allergy and immunology from the University of Montreal. They dive into the complexities of adult food allergies, distinguishing them from childhood allergies and discussing both clinical insights and patient experiences.

On this episode:

Understanding Adult Food Allergies: Dr. Begin explains the unique characteristics of adult food allergies, including the differences in allergens and symptoms between adults and children. He sheds light on the under-researched area of adult food allergy practice.

Diagnosis and History: Learn about the critical elements in diagnosing IgE-mediated food allergies in adults. Dr. Begin emphasizes the importance of timing, symptom duration, and consistency in patient history to accurately identify food allergies.

Management Strategies: Dr. Begin shares his approach to managing adult food allergies, highlighting the importance of recognizing patients' experiential knowledge and their tolerance to risk. He discusses the role of food challenges and the careful use of food diaries.

Psychosocial Aspects: Explore the psychological and social dimensions of living with food allergies as an adult. Dr. Begin talks about the varying reactions to food allergies, from fear to confidence, and how past experiences shape these responses.

Empowering Patients: Discover how empowering patients to manage their food allergies can transform their lives. Dr. Begin's stories of patients taking control of their conditions provide valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers.

Tune in to this episode for a comprehensive look at the evolving field of adult food allergies, offering practical advice and expert perspectives that are essential for anyone dealing with this condition.

Have an idea for the show or a comment, send us a text!

Visit the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Find an allergist using our helpful tool

Find Dr. Hanna on X, previously Twitter, @PedsAllergyDoc or CSACI @CSACI_ca

The Allergist is produced for CSACI by PodCraft Productions

"Usually when patients have really strong feelings, what they're really trying to tell you is what their priorities are and what they are most afraid of"  -- Dr. Michael Cyr

Join Dr. Mariam Hanna as she welcomes Dr. Michael Cyr, a leader in allergy and clinical immunology, to explore the vital role of shared decision-making in the modern practice.

On this episode:

Understanding Shared Decision-Making: Dr. Cyr breaks down the concept of shared decision-making, emphasizing its importance in integrating patient preferences with evidence-based medicine. He highlights the need for physicians to present all treatment options and their associated risks and benefits clearly.

Recognizing and Overcoming Biases: Dr. Cyr discusses the cognitive biases that affect both patients and physicians. He shares strategies for identifying these biases and ensuring they do not impede the decision-making process.

Effective Communication: Dr. Cyr stresses the importance of taking time to listen to patients. By understanding their priorities and fears, physicians can better guide them through their treatment options. He provides practical advice on framing risks and benefits to help patients make informed choices.

The Art of Medicine: Highlighting the art of medicine, Dr. Cyr shares his approach to balancing strong medical advice with patient autonomy. He uses examples such as oral food challenges to illustrate how different patients may make different decisions based on their unique perspectives.

Building Therapeutic Relationships: Dr. Cyr emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong therapeutic relationship. He advises physicians to be patient and persistent, acknowledging that not all decisions will be straightforward and may require ongoing dialogue and trust-building.

Join Dr. Hanna and Dr. Cyr for an enlightening discussion on how shared decision-making can enhance patient care and improve outcomes in allergy and immunology. This episode is essential for healthcare professionals seeking to refine a balanced approach to patient-centered care and evidence-based practice.

Have an idea for the show or a comment, send us a text!

Visit the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Find an allergist using our helpful tool

Find Dr. Hanna on X, previously Twitter, @PedsAllergyDoc or CSACI @CSACI_ca

The Allergist is produced for CSACI by PodCraft Productions

“Early introduction is the time-proven and research-proven prevention target for every child and every food.” -- Prof. Jonathan Hourihane

Venture into the evolving landscape of food allergy management as Dr. Mariam Hanna welcomes Professor Jonathan Hourihane, a leading figure in pediatric allergy and immunotherapy from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. Together, they explore the latest strategies in dietary advancement therapies and the critical role of early food introduction.

On this episode:

Early Introduction: Professor Hourihane emphasizes the importance of introducing allergenic foods early to prevent long-term allergies. He challenges traditional cautious approaches and highlights the effectiveness of starting reintroductions at home for allergens like milk and egg.

Impact of Parental Anxiety: How parental emotions play a crucial role. Professor Hourihane shares his findings on the negative effects of high parental anxiety on the success of food reintroduction. He underscores the need for allergists to provide support to help parents navigate these challenges confidently.

Advocacy in Allergy Management: Reflecting his passion for patient advocacy, Professor Hourihane advocates for a proactive approach to managing food allergies. He discusses the necessity of empowering both patients and their families to take informed steps toward reintroducing allergenic foods safely and effectively.

Shifting Perspectives: They discuss how these approaches necessitate a shift in how allergists view food allergies—from a condition to be feared to one that can be actively managed through strategic, informed actions.

Join Dr. Hanna and Professor Hourihane for an insightful discussion that promises to reshape your understanding of food allergy management, emphasizing early intervention and patient empowerment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in allergy care, offering essential insights that could transform your clinical approach. 

Have an idea for the show or a comment, send us a text!

Visit the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Find an allergist using our helpful tool

Find Dr. Hanna on X, previously Twitter, @PedsAllergyDoc or CSACI @CSACI_ca

The Allergist is produced for CSACI by PodCraft Productions

“I guarantee you, within the next five years or within my lifetime, there may be a permanent solution to a lot of medical conditions including (asthma)."  -- Dr. Jason Lee

Asthma remains a formidable foe, particularly when it escalates to its severe form. This episode of "The Allergist," Dr. Mariam Hanna, explores the complexities of severe asthma and the revolutionary impact of biologic therapies.

Dr. Jason Lee, a leading expert in allergy and immunology, sheds light on the evolution of asthma treatment. Gone are the days when inhalers and corticosteroids were our only options. Today, biologics offer a promising frontier, not just to manage but potentially to rewrite the course of the disease. Dr. Lee demystifies these powerful medications, tackling common concerns and highlighting the essential role of patient education in fostering adherence.

Dr. Lee offers several actionable tips for physicians on managing severe asthma with biologics. He advises on the importance of patient education about the mechanisms and benefits of biologics to enhance adherence and reduce anxiety about these new treatments. He emphasizes the need for regular monitoring of lung function and inflammation markers to tailor therapy effectively. And Dr. Lee highlights the use of stepped-care approaches and discusses strategic timing for introducing or discontinuing biologic therapy based on patient response and overall asthma control. 

For allergists and healthcare professionals keen on cutting-edge treatments for severe asthma, this discussion is a treasure trove of practical insights and innovative strategies.

Have an idea for the show or a comment, send us a text!

Visit the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Find an allergist using our helpful tool

Find Dr. Hanna on X, previously Twitter, @PedsAllergyDoc or CSACI @CSACI_ca

The Allergist is produced for CSACI by PodCraft Productions

“(Urticaria) is not an allergic condition, it's an autoimmune condition, one. Two, it's not dangerous, but it can last long. Three, we have very good strategies to control it.”                                                                                                                         
                                                                                                                                - Dr. Moshe Ben-shoshan

Hives are probably one of the most misunderstood rashes by the general public. Hives are not life-threatening, but they're debilitating. They're not an allergy, but they're often blamed for being one. They're a marker of autoimmunity with little to do with one particular disease and their course and triggers in one particular person is at best challenging to predict.

Dr. Moshe Ben-shoshan tackles the intriguing world of chronic urticaria; cutting through common misconceptions, and walking us through the latest in diagnostic strategies and management options for hives. From the targeted effectiveness of second-generation antihistamines to the advanced treatment possibilities offered by biologics like omalizumab, and even the role of immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine. Special attention is given to the nuances of chronic urticaria in children versus adults.

Emphasizing the critical role of disease scoring systems, Dr. Ben-shoshan explains how these tools are vital for assessing severity and guiding treatment decisions. The conversation also sheds light on the diagnostic value of blood tests, showcasing the multifaceted approach required to effectively manage hives.

Dr. Ben-shoshan tip-toes into the delicate territory of how to handle the increasing requests for testing and dietary modifications. We also take a quick glimpse into the future of urticaria management including targeted pediatric guidance and new biologics on the horizon. 

This episode offers an indispensable resource for allergists and healthcare professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of chronic urticaria. It’s packed with practical insights and a look towards promising advancements in the field.

Have an idea for the show or a comment, send us a text!

Visit the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Find an allergist using our helpful tool

Find Dr. Hanna on X, previously Twitter, @PedsAllergyDoc or CSACI @CSACI_ca

The Allergist is produced for CSACI by PodCraft Productions

“Worst allergy season ever? Might not be an exaggeration for that patient.” 
                                                                                                                                   -- Dr. Adam Byrne

On this episode, Dr. Mariam Hanna is joined by Dr. Adam Byrne, an expert allergist and clinical immunologist, to unravel the complex relationship between climate change and allergic diseases. Dr. Byrne sheds light on how rising global temperatures, increased pollution, and changing ecosystems are not just environmental issues but are directly impacting the prevalence and severity of allergic conditions.

Together, they dissect the science behind why we're seeing an uptick in cases of asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis. But the conversation doesn't stop at diagnosis and treatment; it also covers practical advice for allergists and patients alike on mitigating the health impacts of climate change. From advocating for cleaner air policies to adjusting daily routines, Dr. Byrne offers actionable strategies to address the evolving landscape of allergies.

This episode is essential listening for anyone in the allergy field, providing a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in managing allergies in a changing climate. Whether you're a healthcare professional or someone navigating the complexities of living with allergies, Dr. Byrne's insights offer valuable guidance for adapting to our planet's new normal.

Have an idea for the show or a comment, send us a text!

Visit the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Find an allergist using our helpful tool

Find Dr. Hanna on X, previously Twitter, @PedsAllergyDoc or CSACI @CSACI_ca

The Allergist is produced for CSACI by PodCraft Productions

“Food allergy tests are not screening tests…I will pause for dramatic effect…Food allergy tests are not screening tests.” Dr. David Stukus

Dr. Mariam Hanna is joined by Dr. David Stukus, a leading pediatric allergist and clinical immunologist from Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. Together, they dive into the critical issues surrounding food allergy diagnostics and the latest advancements in treatment options, including developments in the field of oral immunotherapy (OIT) and the recent FDA approval of Omalizumab for food allergies.

Dr. Stukus debunks common misconceptions about testing and emphasizes the importance of a nuanced approach to interpreting results when diagnosing food allergies He advocates for evidence-based practices and the necessity of individualized treatment plans, highlighting the role of clinicians in guiding patients through the complexities of managing food allergies.

The conversation also explores the future of food allergy treatments, with Dr. Stukus expressing optimism about the potential for more personalized therapies that cater to the unique needs of each patient. He stresses the importance of shared decision-making between clinicians and patients, ensuring that treatment choices are informed, thoughtful, and tailored to achieve the best possible outcomes.

This episode is a must-listen for allergists aiming to keep ahead of the evolving landscape of food allergy management, offering deep insights into the challenges, innovations, and hopes for the future. 

Have an idea for the show or a comment, send us a text!

Visit the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Find an allergist using our helpful tool

Find Dr. Hanna on X, previously Twitter, @PedsAllergyDoc or CSACI @CSACI_ca

The Allergist is produced for CSACI by PodCraft Productions

“People think leadership has to be a loud person standing in front of everybody, declaring themselves the leader. Leadership isn't a dictatorship. Leadership is not always that loud person.”  -- Dr. Zainab Abdurrahman

On this episode of "The Allergist," we explore what leadership in medicine actually means with Dr. Zainab Abdurrahman, an accomplished allergist and clinical immunologist. Dr. Abdurrahman, who wears many hats including that of an assistant clinical professor of pediatrics at McMaster University and the incoming president-elect of the Ontario Medical Association, shares her insights on what it means to be a leader in the medical field.

Leadership, as Dr. Abdurrahman explains, is not just about being at the forefront; it's about inspiring and motivating others, guiding teams towards a common goal, and sometimes, leading from behind to allow others to shine. This episode is not just about the theoretical aspects of leadership but also about its practical applications in the challenging landscape of healthcare.

Dr. Abdurrahman's journey is a testament to the diverse forms leadership can take, from being the team lead in mock codes to shaping the future direction of healthcare in Ontario. She discusses the challenges and opportunities that come with being a female leader in medicine, breaking stereotypes, and paving the way for future generations.

So, whether you're an aspiring leader, a medical professional, or someone curious about the intersection of leadership and medicine, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Join Dr. Mariam Hanna and Dr. Zainab Abdurrahman on "The Allergist" as they explore the essence of leadership in medicine and how it shapes the healthcare landscape.

Have an idea for the show or a comment, send us a text!

Visit the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Find an allergist using our helpful tool

Find Dr. Hanna on X, previously Twitter, @PedsAllergyDoc or CSACI @CSACI_ca

The Allergist is produced for CSACI by PodCraft Productions