October 19, 2020

Donating Plasma Helps Fight Immune Disorder

SUNDAY, Sept. 13, 2020 -- Tens of thousands of people with immune system deficiencies could benefit from plasma donations, but there is a drastic shortage of plasma, allergists say.

That means that many people who need plasma have to skip treatments or go without, which can be potentially fatal, they added.

October 15, 2020

An Upside to the Common Cold? It May Guard Against COVID

MONDAY, Oct. 5, 2020 -- The common cold can make you miserable, but it might also help protect you against COVID-19, a new study suggests.

The researchers added that people who've had COVID-19 may be immune to it for a long time, possibly even the rest of their lives.

October 7, 2020

Fall in the Southeast Means Guarding Against Fire Ant Stings

TUESDAY, Oct. 6, 2020 -- The sting of fire ants can be painful and even deadly -- and the threat rises during fall across the southeastern United States.

At this time of year, fire ants move to warm surfaces such as concrete slabs or asphalt roads, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), which urges people to take precautions.

September 2, 2020

Some Fall Allergy Symptoms Could Have You Thinking COVID

SATURDAY, Aug. 29, 2020 -- Some fall allergy symptoms mimic those of COVID-19, so seasonal allergy sufferers should follow treatment plans and take precautions to avoid any confusion, an expert says.

"A rise in ragweed tends to mark the informal start of the fall allergy season, which typically begins in mid-August," said Dr. Rachna Shah, an allergist with Loyola Medicine in Maywood, Ill.

September 2, 2020

Bee Healthy: Honey May Beat Cold Meds Against Cough

MONDAY, Aug. 24, 2020 -- There may be no cure for the common cold, but a spoonful of honey might make it less miserable, a new research review concludes.

Parents have long used honey to soothe kids' sore throats and cough -- probably because their parents did. But the review of 14 clinical trials finds some science to back it up.