Feature Length


24 Why are we so allergic?

You see them plastered up in every school wall, in every kindergarten kitchen. Anaphylaxis Action Plans outlining the procedures for the common — peanut or egg, to the not so common — anaphylaxis to cold. Is there a greater awareness of allergies and better diagnosis, or are allergies on the rise?

32 Have allergies, will travel

Travelling with allergies can be a challenge, but with some homework and planning, you should be able to enjoy an overseas adventure like anyone else

P 38 Drug allergy: 10 steps towards a helpful diagnosis

Unfortunately, all drugs can sometimes cause unwanted or adverse effects and it can be difficult to get a diagnosis — unless you take a detailed history

P 54 Easter fever!

Easter doesn’t have to be a drag it you have food allergies. We have a few suggestions that still get you into the festive spirit


Regulars

2 Editorial
4 Giveaways
5 Feedback

6-10 Allergy Update

• The EpiPen and Pharmac saga continues
• Increasing evidence of allergy cost
• ACC covers anaphylaxis
• New asthma trial underway


12-16 Ask the Expert

Your allergy questions answered


18-23 Real people

• Mission impossible — but not quite
• Winning the battle

30 Hay fever

The hayfever and sinusitis link

40 Asthma
Breathless: is your asthma under control?


42-44 On the skin

Wrapped for eczema success

46-47 Healthy home

Pillow talk: dust mite combat

52 Directories

Allergy New Zealand, useful contacts and acknowledgements

53 Subscribe and win

Subscribe to Allergy Today AND join Allergy New Zealand for a special price and you could win a fantastic vacuum cleaner

56-60 Food for thought

• Wheat-free, not taste-free. Four pages of delicious recipes
• Soy allergy

64-65 Parting shot

And the award for best overall disability goes to…