Category: General

Shortness of breath is a common symptom during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, increased demand on the heart and lungs, and the growing size of the uterus. Shortness of breath usually affects about 60% to 70% of pregnant women. It is usually caused by the growing uterus pressing on the diaphragm, which makes it harder to breathe.However, in some cases, shortness of breath can indicate a more serious condition that requires medical attention. Here are some signs that suggest shortness of breath may be a cause for concern during any trimester of pregnancy: Difficulty breathing or gasping for air: If ... Read more

Living with allergies and pets can be challenging, but it is possible. Here are a few strategies that may help: Keep pets out of certain rooms in your home, such as your bedroom, to reduce your exposure to pet dander. Regularly groom your pet and vacuum or dust your home to remove pet dander. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove pet dander from the air. Take an antihistamine before spending time with your pet, especially if you know you will be exposed to them for an extended period of time. If you are severely allergic, consider consulting an ... Read more

The destruction of Southwest Florida’s communities in the aftermath of hurricanes is tragic, and the cleanup efforts create a serious impact on people with asthma, COPD and sleep disorder including sleep apnea.

Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, affects approximately 20 percent of people of all ages. The most common symptoms include nasal itching, watery nasal discharge, sneezing, itchy red eyes, sore throat, or hoarse voice. Allergic rhinitis is caused by a nasal reaction to small airborne particles called allergens (substances that cause an allergic reaction). In some people, these particles also cause reactions in the lungs (asthma) and eyes (allergic conjunctivitis). One of the first steps in treating any allergic condition is to avoid or minimize exposure to the allergens that cause the condition. Although this is frequently helpful in ... Read more

HIVES OVERVIEW “Urticaria” or hives are raised areas of the skin that itch intensely and are red with a pale center. Hives develop when there is a reaction that activates immune cells in the skin called mast cells and release natural chemicals mainly histamine, which causes hive. In most cases, hives appear suddenly and disappear within several hours. HIVES SYMPTOMS Skin appearance — Hives are raised areas that itch intensely and are sometimes red with a pale center. Itching is usually the most bothersome symptom of hives, and it may be severe enough to interfere with work and sleep. Hives ... Read more

Urticaria, more commonly known as “hives,” is a skin reaction resulting in red, itchy bumps of varying size that fade and reappear as the reaction runs its course. The condition is considered chronic if the welts appear for more than six weeks and recur frequently over time. Short-term (acute) hives appear suddenly and clear up within a few weeks. The causes of acute hives include reactions to medications, heat or cold, stress, alcohol, food, fabric, exercise, insect or parasite bite or infection. Often, the cause of chronic hives is not clear. In some cases, chronic hives may be related to ... Read more

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women, according to the American Cancer Society. Lung cancer accounts for about 27% of all cancer deaths and is by far the leading cause of cancer death among both men and women. Each year, more people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined. “Lung cancer is a serious disease, but it can be prevented and treated,” says Imtiaz Ahmad, M.D., Board Certified Pulmonologist and founder of Allergy Sleep & Lung Care. “Early detection and prompt treatment is key to fighting the disease.” Allergy Sleep ... Read more

As daylight saving time gets closer, preparing a sleep schedule is important for your body. According to The National Institute of Health, the average adult aged 25 to 60 needs between seven and nine hours of sleep each night. Cutting back on sleep hours can take a toll on your body. In fact, not getting enough sleep can affect your mood, energy level, mental sharpness and your ability to handle stress. During daylight saving time, you want to make sure that you plan a sleep schedule that works around the time change. Setting the clocks forward has a big impact ... Read more

Allergy Sleep and Lung Care’s Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad discusses how rising pollen counts impact allergies and how to treat and manage symptoms on NBC. View the video below.

As another school year approaches, teens and college students are found milking every opportunity to stay out late, sleep in, or even spending time foregoing sleep entirely. Research proves that sleep regulates mood and is closely tied to learning and memory functions, making it critical for teens and young adults to practice healthy sleeping habits. It also helps maximize productivity during the day and plays a critical role in overall energy level and health. Founder of Allergy, Sleep & Lung Care and board certified sleep medicine physician, Imtiaz Ahmad M.D., provides students a series of healthy sleeping tips to promote ... Read more