Let‘s Clear the Air! All Things Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

Fireworks and Asthma: How Summer Smoke Can Trigger Attacks

In this episode Marcella Feathers and Dr. Phil Jones discuss how summer activities like fireworks, bonfires, and campfires can trigger asthma and other lung conditions. They explain common asthma symptoms, how smoke particles and gases worsen airway inflammation, and practical precautions such as checking wind direction, keeping distance, carrying a rescue inhaler, and following an action plan.   They also cover diagnosis steps including medical history, spirometry with bronchodilator testing, and methacholine challenge, and encourage listeners with uncontrolled symptoms to seek care so they can enjoy summer safely.

Mail‑In Allergy Tests: Why Hair and Saliva Kits Miss the Mark

In this episode, host Marcella Feathers and Dr. Nicholas Cline examine mail-in allergy tests that use hair or saliva, explaining why experts warn they’re unreliable: they’re often unvalidated, may measure IgG (not the allergy-linked IgE), produce confusing false positives or negatives, and can be costly. Learn why certain methods of allergy testing are preferred by the specialty and why consulting an allergist before avoiding foods or purchasing an at-home kit can save you money and keep you safe!

Spring Allergies: It's the Trees, Not the Flowers

In this episode, Dr. Nicholas Cline identifies the "heavy hitters" of spring allergies: trees. From oak to poplar, Dr. Cline describes the way in which allergens are determined and how far their reach can be. (Hint: thousands of miles.) He also shares some simple tips for managing your exposure and why avoiding some nearly perennial allergens may require a more clinical approach for relief.

Itch and Scratch: Understanding Hives and Eczema

In this episode of Let's Clear the Air!, Dr. Phil Jones and host Marcella Feathers discuss the differences between hives (urticaria) and eczema, how the conditions often diminish patients' quality of life, and how several effective treatment options are now available. Dr. Jones shares the differences between allergically triggered and chronic urticaria and eczema. He explains how each one presents on the skin, how long they last, and how patients can break the itch-scratch cycle through a variety of treatment options. One of the most effective options he describes is biologics, which Dr. Jones says has helped tremendously, causing some patients to declare them as life-changing.  Most importantly, Dr. Jones emphasizes the importance of letting eczema and urticaria patients know they are not alone – and do not need to suffer anymore!

From Sidelined to Scoring: How Allergy Shots Gave Ben His Life Back

Host Marcella Feathers speaks with Nurse Practitioner Pam Wright and patient Ben (with his mother Amy) about Ben’s struggle with frequent sinus infections, poor sleep, daytime fatigue, and missed school. After allergy testing revealed new results, Ben began allergy shots and experienced dramatic improvements. The conversation covers the steps involved in testing, his treatment experience, and the life-changing benefits of better sleep, fewer illnesses, and getting back to soccer! Listen as this patient's story offers hope and practical encouragement to families facing similar issues.