Conditions We Treat

COVID VACCINE ALERT
Please be aware that we recommend patients do not receive allergy shots of biologics injections for 7 days after receiving a COVID vaccine. This may cause a need to reschedule an injection appointment. Please call our office to change appointment times or for any questions or concerns. You can also contact us through the patient portal.

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We do not expect to be a site for the administration of the COVID-19 vaccine.  Please check with your local public health department.

Use this link for more information on the state of California’s tiered system for vaccine administration.

https://covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/#When-can-I-get-vaccinated

Frequently Asked Questions

What is vaccine allergy?

Similar to medications or foods, people can be allergic to a vaccine. However, allergic reactions to vaccines are very rare (about 1 in 1 million people will have an allergic reaction to a vaccine). Some reactions are mild, such as hives as the only symptom, while others are more severe. A severe allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis. Symptoms start very quickly (usually within minutes) and almost always within 4 hours of vaccination and typically include multiple parts of the body: hives on the skin; swelling of mouth, lips, tongue or throat; shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest tightness; or low blood pressure or loss of consciousness. About half of allergic reactions to vaccines happen in the first 15 minutes after receiving the vaccination.

What about redness and swelling at the injection site- is that an allergic reaction?

Sometimes vaccines can cause large local reactions at the injection site, and these can begin hours after the vaccination or even the next day. The skin at the site of vaccination can become sore, swollen, red, and painful. Sometimes it can also become itchy. The symptoms can last several days. Although this type of reaction can be uncomfortable, if it does not include the symptoms of allergic reactions listed above, it is not an allergic reaction to the vaccine, there is no risk of an allergic reaction with the next vaccination, and an allergist consultation is not necessary.

What is a severe allergic reaction?

A severe allergic reaction is sometimes called anaphylaxis. Symptoms start very quickly (usually within minutes) and almost always within 4 hours of vaccination and typically include hives; swelling of mouth, lips, tongue or throat; shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest tightness; or low blood pressure or loss of consciousness.

What are the ingredients in the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine?

1. mRNA.The active ingredient is a nucleoside-modified messenger RNA (modRNA) encoding the viral spike (S) glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2.

2. Inactive ingredients:

• Lipids ((4-hydroxybutyl)azanediyl)bis(hexane-6,1-diyl)bis(2-hexyldecanoate), [(polyethylene glycol [PEG])-2000]-N,N-ditetradecylacetamide, 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine, and 0.2 mg cholesterol),

• Electrolytes potassium chloride, monobasic potassium phosphate, sodium chloride, dibasic sodium phosphate dihydrate, and
• Sugar (sucrose)
• The diluent, added to the vaccine for administration, is saline (Sodium Chloride)

What are the ingredients in the Moderna COVID Vaccine?

1. messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA)
2. Inactive Ingredients:

• lipids (SM-102, polyethylene glycol [PEG] 2000 dimyristoyl glycerol [DMG], cholesterol, and 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine [DSPC]),

• tromethamine,
• tromethamine hydrochloride,
• acetic acid,
• sodium acetate,
• Sugar (sucrose)

Which patients should speak to an allergist before receiving the vaccine?

In the vaccine trials, only patients with a history of severe allergic reaction associated with a vaccine and/or severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine were excluded. If you are unsure about your vaccine or PEG allergy history, please contact our office to schedule a telemedicine visit with your provider.  In general, most patients allergic to one vaccine can receive other vaccinations safely.

What is polyethylene glycol (PEG) and what are common products that contain PEG?

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a common, water-soluble ingredient in a wide variety of commercial products including some vaccines and more than 1000 FDA approved medications. It is the primary ingredient in commonly used colonoscopy preparations (Golytely) or constipation treatment (Miralax) as well as in IV medications such as PEGylated medications. It is also in ultrasound gel and injectable steroid injections such as methylprednisolone acetate. Reactions to polyethylene glycol are exceedingly rare but anaphylaxis has been reported.

Please consider the following questions which can help determine your individual risk of allergic reaction to these 2 COVID19 vaccines.

Angioedema: Understanding Swelling Beyond the Skin

Angioedema is a condition that causes swelling under the skin. Unlike hives, which are itchy
welts on the skin's surface, angioedema affects deeper layers of the skin and can involve other
body parts. This swelling can occur in the face, lips, tongue, throat, and even internal organs.
While often associated with allergies, angioedema can also be caused by other factors such as
certain medications or underlying medical conditions. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort
to life-threatening airway obstruction.

If you experience unexplained swelling, it's important to seek medical attention promptly. Capital
Allergy and Respiratory Disease Center specializes in diagnosing and treating angioedema. We
can help identify the underlying cause and develop a personalized treatment plan to manage
your symptoms and prevent future episodes..

Asthma: Understanding and Managing This Common Condition

Asthma is a chronic lung condition that affects millions of people. It causes inflammation and
narrowing of the airways, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms often include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. While there's no cure for asthma, it can be effectively managed with proper treatment.

Are you struggling with asthma symptoms? Capital Allergy and Respiratory Disease Center specializes in diagnosing and treating asthma. We can help you develop a personalized
treatment plan to control your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Contact Dermatitis: An Irritating Skin Condition

Contact dermatitis is an itchy rash that develops when your skin comes into contact with a
substance it's allergic to or irritated by. Common triggers include soaps, detergents, metals,
plants, and cosmetics. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, blisters, and dryness.
While contact dermatitis can be uncomfortable, it's often treatable. Capital Allergy and
Respiratory Disease Center can help identify the cause of your rash and develop a personalized
treatment plan. We offer a range of options to soothe your skin and prevent future flare-ups.

Drug Allergies: Understanding and Managing Reactions

Drug allergies occur when your immune system mistakenly identifies a medication as harmful,
triggering an allergic reaction. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include rash,
itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.

Knowing your drug allergies is crucial for your health and safety. Capital Allergy and Respiratory
Disease Center specializes in diagnosing and managing drug allergies. We can help you identify
your triggers, develop a safe medication plan, and provide the necessary tools to manage your
condition.

Eczema: Managing Itchy, Irritated Skin

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and
inflamed patches of skin. It can be uncomfortable and affect your quality of life. While there's no
cure for eczema, effective treatments can help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
Capital Allergy and Respiratory Disease Center offers comprehensive care for eczema patients.
We can identify triggers, develop personalized treatment plans, and provide education on skin
care to help you achieve clearer, healthier skin.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE): Understanding This Digestive Condition

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic condition where a type of white blood cell called an
eosinophil builds up in the esophagus, among other inflammatory cells. This buildup causes
inflammation and damage to the lining of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from your
mouth to your stomach.

Symptoms of EoE can include difficulty swallowing, food getting stuck in the throat, chest pain,
heartburn, and vomiting. While the exact cause of EoE is unknown, it's believed to be related to
an allergic or immune system response to certain foods or environmental allergens.
If you're experiencing persistent swallowing difficulties or other symptoms, it's important to
consult with a healthcare provider. Capital Allergy and Respiratory Disease Center specializes
in diagnosing and managing EoE. We can help identify potential triggers, develop a
personalized treatment plan, and provide the support you need to manage your condition.

Food Allergies: Navigating a World of Dietary Restrictions Food allergies occur when your immune system mistakenly identifies a food protein as harmful, triggering an allergic reaction. This overreaction can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Common food allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, sesame, shellfish, and fish. Living with food allergies can be challenging, but it's important to know that you're not alone. Capital Allergy and Respiratory Disease Center is dedicated to helping individuals manage their food allergies and improve their quality of life. We offer comprehensive care, including accurate diagnosis, allergen identification, and personalized treatment plans.

Oral Immunotherapy (OIT): A Potential Treatment Option For some patients, oral immunotherapy (OIT) may be a viable treatment option. OIT involves gradually introducing increasing amounts of the allergen under strict medical supervision. The goal is to desensitize the immune system to the allergen, allowing for increased tolerance. It's important to note that OIT is not a cure and requires ongoing management.

Our Approach to Food Allergy Care
At our clinic, we believe in a patient-centered approach to food allergy management. Our experienced team will work closely with you to: * Conduct thorough allergy testing to identify food triggers * Develop a personalized avoidance plan to minimize exposure * Provide education on food allergy management and emergency preparedness * Offer support and guidance to help you navigate food-related challenges * Explore potential treatment options, including OIT, when appropriate We are currently offering OIT for milk, egg, peanut and tree nuts. If you or your child is struggling with food allergies, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment. We're here to help you live a full and enjoyable life, free from the fear of allergic reactions.

Oral Immunotherapy (OIT): A Potential Treatment Option For some patients, oral immunotherapy (OIT) may be a viable treatment option. OIT involves gradually introducing increasing amounts of the allergen under strict medical supervision. The goal is to desensitize the immune system to the allergen, allowing for increased tolerance. It's important to note that OIT is not a cure and requires ongoing management.

Hay Fever: Spring Into Relief

Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is a common allergy that affects millions of people. It occurs when your immune system overreacts to pollen from trees, grasses, or weeds. Symptoms typically include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion. While hay fever can be bothersome, it's treatable. Capital Allergy and Respiratory Disease Center can help you identify your triggers and develop a personalized treatment plan. We offer a range of options to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Immunotherapy: A Potential Treatment

For persistent allergies, immunotherapy may be an effective treatment option. This involves gradually introducing small amounts of the allergen to your system to build tolerance. We offer both sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) and subcutaneously administered immunotherapy (SCIT) to address your specific needs.

Hives: Itchy and Uncomfortable Hives, or urticaria, are raised, itchy welts that can appear anywhere on the body. They can vary in size and shape and often come and go quickly. While hives can be irritating, they usually aren't serious. However, in some cases, they can be a sign of an underlying allergy or medical condition. If you're experiencing persistent or bothersome hives, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional. Capital Allergy and Respiratory Disease Center can help determine the cause of your hives and develop an effective treatment plan. We offer a variety of options to relieve symptoms and prevent future outbreaks.

Hymenoptera Allergy: Don't Let Stings Sting You

A hymenoptera allergy is an allergic reaction to the venom of stinging insects like bees, wasps,
hornets, and ants. Reactions can range from mild to severe, including hives, swelling, difficulty
breathing, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.

If you've experienced a severe reaction to a sting, it's crucial to seek medical attention. Capital
Allergy and Respiratory Disease Center specializes in diagnosing and treating hymenoptera
allergies. We can help you identify your specific allergy, develop a personalized treatment plan,
and provide you with the tools to manage your condition and prevent future reactions.

Immunodeficiency: A Weakened Immune System Immunodeficiency refers to a state where your body's immune system is compromised, making you more susceptible to infections. This can range from mild to severe, and can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic conditions, infections, or certain medications. Symptoms of immunodeficiency can vary widely but often include frequent or severe infections, difficulty recovering from illness, and fatigue. If you're concerned about your immune system, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional. Capital Allergy and Respiratory Disease Center specializes in diagnosing and managing immunodeficiencies. We offer comprehensive care, including advanced testing and tailored treatment plans.

Nasal Polyps: Breathing Easier

Nasal polyps are soft, painless growths in the nasal passages. They can cause a range of
symptoms including congestion, difficulty breathing, loss of smell, and post-nasal drip. While not
typically serious, nasal polyps can significantly impact your quality of life.

If you're experiencing persistent nasal congestion or other related symptoms, it's important to
consult with a healthcare professional. Capital Allergy and Respiratory Disease Center
specializes in diagnosing and treating nasal polyps. We offer a variety of treatment options to
help you breathe easier and improve your overall well-being.

Vaccine Allergies: Understanding and Managing Reactions

A vaccine allergy occurs when your immune system overreacts to a component of a vaccine,
causing an allergic reaction. While vaccine allergies are rare, they can be serious. Symptoms
can range from mild to severe and may include hives, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, and
in severe cases, anaphylaxis.

If you've experienced a severe reaction to a vaccine, it's important to consult with a healthcare
professional. Capital Allergy and Respiratory Disease Center specializes in diagnosing and
managing vaccine allergies. We can help identify the specific allergen, develop a personalized
treatment plan, and provide you with the tools to manage your condition and prevent future
reactions.

Sleep Apnea and Allergies: A Connection Are you struggling with restless sleep? Allergies and immune system disorders can often contribute to sleep disturbances, such as sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Capital Allergy and Respiratory Disease Center offers comprehensive care for patients with sleep disorders. Our pulmonology specialists are dedicated to diagnosing and treating sleep apnea and other sleep-related issues. We work closely with our allergy and immunology team to provide a holistic approach to improving your sleep quality.