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

Host Liz Edwards talks with Nurse Practitioner Clara Loter! Clara is originally from Iowa and had never had any allergy or asthma problems before moving to Tennessee. Now that she's here, she's a big supporter of immunotherapy and biologics. Listen as Clara shares how her experience as a nurse practitioner in the ICU during COVID led her to choose a career where she can keep people out of the hospital and improve their overall quality of life.

Host Liz Edwards introduces us to Nurse Practitioner Kelsie Hannah. Kelsie grew up in Pleasant View, Tenn. She completed her undergraduate at Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, and her master's at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville. Learn what attracted Kelsie to the field of medicine, how her 18-month-old daughter continues to fascinate her, and how her reading habits have changed since becoming a new mom.

Host Kaylie Francis talks with Dr. Erin Rohman about the special care required by asthmatics and allergic folks during colder winter months. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or a binge watcher, colder weather can expose you to allergens and viruses that are unique to winter. Dr. Rohman shares tips for how you can stay healthy and active now – and in the coming spring.

Have you already seen your New Year's resolutions get waylaid by forgetfulness, bad weather, or Netfilx? It's not too late. Dr. Erin Rohman shares with host Kaylie Francis how you can get out of that winter rut in time to have your best year yet. Whether you need to move your body a bit more to help improve your mood or review your emergency med supply, Dr. Rohman has the tips to help! Hear for yourself how seeing your allergist, pacing while watching TV, or simply checking the expiration dates on your medicines can be easy steps that will get you back on track for a healthy, happy 2024.

Host Liz Edwards talks with Dr. Sarah Adams about the many nuances surrounding food allergies. Whether you're concerned about introducing new foods to your infant or you're finding gluten creates more chaos than comfort, being able to define what is and isn't a food allergy can be difficult. Dr. Adams reviews what allergists look for to determine a food allergy and the importance of patient history and symptoms. She also shares how food allergies and eczema may (or may not) be connected and how an elimination diet, like going gluten free, can be a personal choice for a better quality of life.

Host Liz Edwards introduces us to Nurse Practitioner Alexi Slomin, who works in our Middle Tennessee clinics. Alexi is a Florida native who moved to Nashville for her residency at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. Learn more about Alexi's rich family history in medicine, why she believes it's "never a bad idea to see an allergist," and the variety of literary genres she enjoys reading during her spare time.

Dr. Erin Rohman continues her conversation about Alpha-gal with host Kaylie Francis. Listen as she discusses ways to manage your symptoms and the natural progression of the syndrome.

Dr. Erin Rohman meets with host Kaylie Francis for an in-depth discussion about Alpha-gal. This first part of our two-part series includes a definition of Alpha-gal, what to expect and when to expect it if you do have a reaction, and how providers can make an accurate diagnosis.

Do you have food allergies? If so, the holidays can be a stressful time. Office parties, family get-togethers, and nights out with friends should be anxiety-free; but when surprise ingredients can lead to unexpected allergic reactions, the holidays can turn grim quickly. Dr. Nicholas Kolinsky and host Kaylie Francis share insights on how to remove some of that anxiety through education, asking questions, and being prepared! Listen to learn more.

RSV. The flu. Covid. As viruses circulate throughout our workplaces, schools, and homes, knowing what to do for a child's persistent cough can be like a guessing game. How can you tell if or when your child needs more care? Host Liz Edwards talks with Dr. Sarah Adams about deciphering the meaning behind your child's cough. First, Dr. Adams suggests patience. Did you know that a cough can last up to six weeks after a virus has run its course? With the "tincture of time," most coughs will dissipate or can be treated with minimal effort, especially when the alternatives, like over-the-counter decongestants and cough suppressants, aren't really effective. Things like steam showers and intermittent use of humidifiers can offer relief; but, if your child's cough remains persistent, if s/he has trouble breathing during physical activities or at night, or if more and more steroids are needed, it may be time to look for other contributing factors. Every child is different, so if you're concerned about your child's cough, listen to this episode to learn more. As Dr. Adams says, "(We) get so excited helping kids! Because when you help a person's child, you help the family."

Dr. Erin Rohman talks with host Kaylie Francis about a simple three-step plan for ensuring you have a safe, enjoyable holiday this season. Whether you have asthma, food allergies, or environmental allergies, Dr. Rohman has a plan for you! Don't end up at an urgent care clinic or worse, the emergency room, while friends and family are being festive. Follow Dr. Rohman's advice to be at your best for all the things: from decorating to parades, holiday feasts to staying overnight in a new environment. Dr. Rohman and Kaylie give the best steps for, as Kaylie says, "staying merry!"

The changing seasons can produce lots of sniffles, coughs, and sneezes. When it's our children, though, it can be hard to tell what's the result of a viral exposure at school and what's not. That's where a board-certified allergist can help! Dr. Nick Kolinsky shares with host Kaylie Francis how acquiring a good history of the child's symptoms can reveal structural, systemic, or viral causes. He also reminds us of some small steps we can all take to stay happy and healthy during this malaise-laden time of year.

Host Kaylie Francis introduces us to Dr. Poneh Heine, who works in our Gainesville, Georgia, location. As a young girl and teenager who suffered from the "Atopic Triad" (eczema, exercise-induced asthma, and allergies), Dr. Heine has a special place in her heart for anyone dealing with the same problems. "I can relate and I can help." Learn about Dr. Heine's education, her love for her family and the outdoors, and her excitement in sharing the advances and options now available for patients like herself.

Nurse Practitioner Pam Wright talks with host Kaylie Francis about the rise in nasal symptoms during the fall season and how to tell if it's a common cold or allergies. Is your pesky cough or runny nose a result of the change in the weather or allergies? Should you take a cold medicine or use an allergy nose spray? Pam shares how our specialists can help you find the answers and bring much needed relief.

Join host Kaylie Francis as she meets with board-certified allergist Dr. Jane Conley to discuss the life-changing and sometimes life-threatening effects of food allergies. Food allergies can be scary, but knowledge is power! Learn about the Teal Pumpkin Project, started in Knoxville, Tenn., as well as how food allergies are diagnosed, which foods cause the most problems for the most people, the differences between food allergies and food sensitivities (or intolerances), and the cause and symptoms of alpha-gal syndrome. Dr. Conley and Kaylie cover it all!

Host Kaylie Francis speaks with Dr. Amy Boyd at the Tennessee Society of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Dr. Boyd works at our Gainesville, Georgia, location, which happens to be her hometown. After graduating from the University of Alabama, Birmingham, where she met her now husband, Dr. Boyd returned to Gainesville and has been practicing allergy and immunology there for more than 11 years. Dr. Boyd shares with Kaylie how her own success with allergy shots as a treatment for her allergies and asthma as a late teen has made all the difference, and why she continues to share with patients of all ages how allergy shots can improve their quality of life.

We're catching up on host Kaylie Francis and Dr. Erin Rohman. Taped in early August, this podcast still holds valuable insight for preparing for fall weather and pollen. Some of Dr. Rohman's helpful fall tips: restart your allergy or asthma treatment plan wear a face mask when doing yard work wash your hands take more time to warm up before a game or a morning run check the expiration date and counter on your inhaler stay current on your vaccines Follow these and other tips given during this episode and have your #bestlife this fall!

Dr. Erin Rohman talks with host Kaylie Francis about common myths regarding mold! Learn the steps you or your college freshman can take to clean your environment of mold spores and other allergic triggers. Dr. Rohman shares steps you can take both inside and outside to improve your environment and control your symptoms. They also discuss how a change of environment might mean a change of allergy plans! Listen as Kaylie and Dr. Rohman share helpful tips and steps to take to get you closer to an allergy cure.

Host Liz Edwards talks with Dr. John Overholt about the lengthening and overlapping of allergy seasons, which often leads to what many people feel is simply one long allergy season. Dr. Overholt shares how some allergy sufferers may never truly have an "off season" for allergy symptoms and how there's no time better than the present to start a customized treatment plan. Learn how specialized allergy shots prepared by a board-certified allergist like Dr. Overholt can help you find lasting allergy relief during any and all seasons!

If you have asthma, doing any activity outdoors during July and August can be hazardous. Host Kaylie Plemens talks with Dr. Karthik Krishnan about the steps you can take to stay safe during our hottest summer days. From exercising only in the morning or evening to trying a breathing technique used by elite athletes, Dr. Krishnan provides some helpful tips to keep you healthy, safe and active.

Nurse Practitioner Emily Carter talks with host Liz Edwards about keeping your indoor air and surfaces free from common allergens. Whether you're looking to avoid allergy triggers like dust mites and mold in your home or wanting to give a new college student a clean start in their dorm, Emily offers great advice on simple steps and products that are easy and accessible.

Dr. Michael Norvell talks with host Liz Edwards about air quality alerts and pollen counts, both of which can make breathing during the summer months difficult for people of all ages. Listen as Dr. Norvell describes how people with asthma, COPD, or any lung impairment can be affected, as well as the young and the elderly. And if you're interested in receiving the pollen counts for Middle and East Tennessee directly to your email, sign up for our Pollen Press.

Host Kaylie Francis talks with Dr. Nick Kolinsky about how biologics are changing the game of medicine! For anyone suffering from severe asthma, nasal polyps, urticaria, hives, or eczema, biologics are providing long-sought relief for patients as young as six months old with little to no side effects. Listen as Dr. Kolinsky explains what biologics are, how they work, and how they are providing some of the most rewarding results for both patients and physicians. And if you're interested in participating in helping advance biologics, check out our "Currently Enrolling" studies.

Host Kaylie Francis introduces us to Nurse Practitioner Lauren Blakley. Lauren comes from an ER and urgent care background, but she's been able to put her interest in environmental sciences, her respect for the human immune system, and her compassion as a nurse to work with us at The Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center. She's also energized by the successes she's seen patients have with immunotherapy, especially those who would visit urgent care with chronic sinus and upper respiratory infections. Learn more about Lauren and her path to allergy and immunology in this episode of Let's Clear the Air!

We are so excited when someone we know and love advances within our practice! That's exactly what happened with Nurse Practitioner Crystal Helton. Join host Kaylie Francis as she welcomes Crystal to her new role as NP! Crystal began with us as Craig Montgomery's nurse. After completing nurse practitioner school (despite a pandemic!), Crystal now sees patients in Lenoir City and Oak Ridge. Learn more about NP Crystal Helton's background and what she enjoys doing during her downtime, as well as our new hours in Lenoir City.

Stinging insects, including honey bees and hornets, pose a huge risk for many individuals. Dr. Jane Conley speaks with host Kaylie Francis about venom allergies and how board-certified allergists can help. If you've been stung by an insect and have had a systemic reaction, meaning you had shortness of breath, became dizzy or nauseous, or had hives and swelling far from where you were stung, you may have a venom allergy. And if you are stung again, your chances of an even worse reaction are way higher! Listen to learn more about how you can protect yourself.

Are you "new" to Tennessee? When it comes to allergies, you may live here two or even five years before you feel the effects. Dr. Sarah Adams describes to host Liz Edwards how the immune system takes some time to become sensitized and how immunotherapy reverses that sensitization.

Dr. Michael Springer talks with host Kaylie Francis about the progression of the "allergic march." From infancy into adulthood, our body's reactions to allergens can change – and our board certified allergists know how to help! Beginning with a child's likelihood to inherit allergies, Dr. Springer uncovers the path of allergic symptoms, moving from skin and GI to inhalant symptoms in the eyes, nose and chest. Whatever the symptom and whatever the age, Dr. Springer discusses how an allergist treats each phase and each patient individually, helping everyone find allergy relief.

Exercise-induced asthma (EIA) can hit hard and unexpectedly when you're outside in the spring. Nurse Practitioner Emily Carter talks with host Liz Edwards about the symptoms to look for and how we diagnose both young and old.

Honey from local bees. Nasal sprays. Neti pots. Bedding covers. Air purifiers. What will help and what will be a waste of time and money? Dr. John Overholt shares the answers with host Liz Edwards.

It's that time of year! Dr. Nick Kolinsky talks with host Kaylie Francis about what's blooming this spring and how you can reel in your allergic symptoms. Per Dr. Kolinsky, Tennessee (and Georgia) is one of the leading allergy hotspots in the U.S. And while many people try to find relief with over-the-counter nasal sprays and antihistamines, they may be doing more harm than good. Learn about the sprays Dr. Kolinsky recommends and why, and how seeing a board-certified allergist can guide you toward the safest, most effective treatment plan for your best life yet!

Dr. Erin Rohman and host Kaylie Francis emphasize that no allergic or asthmatic symptom should keep you or your child from enjoying spring activities! Even if it's early spring and snow or frost may come once again, it's important to have and stay on an allergy or asthma action plan. Spring pollen is here to stay regardless, and your best defense is a good offense with over-the-counter meds, nasal spray, immunotherapy and/or a rescue inhaler as prescribed by your board-certified allergist. Listen as Dr. Rohman shares her passion in ensuring nothing holds back anyone from getting outside this spring season.

"We want you to enjoy this spring season!" Host Kaylie Francis expresses it well, as she and Dr. Erin Rohman discuss the best ways to spring clean while avoiding exposure to those pesky spring allergens. Dr. Rohman touches on ways you can minimize exposure to dust and pollen while cleaning both your indoor and outdoor spaces. Whether you're ridding your home of the winter's dust bunnies or spraying down your pool deck, Dr. Rohman explains how to think ahead and prepare ahead of time for your best and safest way to "clear the air" of spring allergens.

Host Kaylie Francis talks with Dr. Lance Potter about the variations of triggers and symptoms falling under food allergies and food sensitivities. Ranging from an infant’s weight loss and gastric distress to hives and eczema or an itchy mouth, the body’s reaction to certain foods can be difficult to diagnose. That’s why we’ve gone to an expert for some reassurance: Dr. Potter. Listen and learn why coconut, mushrooms, and cinnamon (to name a few) can cause your appetite to turn, and what you and your allergist can do to set the table for more appealing and safer meals.

Do you cough or wheeze when you exercise? Does your chest feel tight, making it hard to breathe? You may have exercise-induced asthma. This condition affects people of all ages, whether they're on the playground or on the soccer field. Host Kaylie Francis talks with Dr. Karthik Krishnan about the triggers, the symptoms, and his best tips for keeping it at bay.

Host Kaylie Francis meets with Nurse Practitioner Karla Jones to discuss how you can get ahead of your seasonal allergies by starting allergy shots. Karla herself attests to the veracity of allergy shots as the only cure for allergies! Allergy shots have enabled her to avoid seasonal symptoms and sinus infections, but, more importantly, they've allowed her to continue cuddling her beloved fur babies. Even children can start allergy shots and are encouraged to do so if they have allergic asthma. Allergy shots can prevent ER visits and hospital stays, and they can reduce the chances of adulthood asthma. So what are you waiting for?! Go ahead listen to Nurse Practitioner Karla Jones and host Kaylie Francis today!

Dr. Mike Norvell and host Liz Edwards discuss how you can get quality relief from your allergies with minimal risk. While allergies may be the furthest thing from your mind, it's only six weeks or less until spring pollen appears. Dr. Norvell notes that for Middle Tennessee, pollen season lasts from February until November! Which is why the time to act is now. If you've ever had to limit your outdoor activities, had trouble sleeping, or had to pick up a child from school because they feel terrible, Dr. Norvell has a plan. More than 85% of patients who try allergy shots are able to pull back on their medications once they reach their maintenance dose. They're feeling better, saving money, less likely to develop new allergies, and are less likely to develop asthma. So what are you waiting for?! Listen as Dr. Norvell and Liz share the time commitment involved with allergy shots and how you can have a much better 2023 with this simple New Year's resolution.

Winter is here, and if you or someone you know has asthma, it can be a tricky season. For some people, simply being exposed to cold air can trigger an asthma attack. Dr. Nick Kolinsky talks with host Kaylie Francis about other seasonal triggers, both indoors and outdoors, and how being educated about your specific diagnosis can make all the difference. Whether you're jogging outdoors or letting pets spend more time indoors, it's important to recognize potential triggers and symptoms. Dr. Kolinsky points out a few of them and emphasizes the steps you and your provider can take to keep you healthy and prepared. The adage "the more you know" couldn't be truer. Listen to this episode and learn more about preventing, controlling and treating asthma during the winter months from Dr. Nick Kolinsky.

If you have friends or loved ones who have allergies or asthma or are immune compromised, you'll want to listen to this episode with Dr. Erin Rohman. Dr. Rohman talks with host Kaylie Francis (Yes! She's married now!) about fun and practical options to show your love and care this holiday season. Whether it's buying a pricey but much-needed item for the new college student or homeowner or avoiding food items for your food-allergic friend, Dr. Rohman has you covered! And while this holiday season can be quite hectic, Dr. Rohman reminds us to not compromise on our own health and to remain diligent with allergy medications or shots this season. As she says, "Whatever your holiday, we want you to spend it happy, healthy and allergy free!"

"Team Allergy" is how Nurse Practitioner Emily Carter describes her family and her career. Having grown up with allergies and with folks in her family having allergies as well, finding her place with The Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center seemed to be – and is! – a natural fit. Host Liz Edwards and Emily discuss her serendipitous route to our practice, how to discern allergies in young children (Emily has a 2-year-old son) and what indoor allergens to expect and try to avoid this holiday season. Listen as they explain the cumulative effects of allergies on our overall wellness and how allergists are the best resource for providing expert diagnoses and care.

Dr. Jane Choi joins host Liz Edwards for a brief discussion about the persistence of fall allergies, the risks of over-the-counter medications, and the benefits of the Teal Pumpkin Project. Learn how the fall season is a convergence of some major allergens, some of which can last well into winter. Dr. Choi explains their timeline and how some OTC medications simply prolong your suffering. Dr. Choi and Liz also touch on the Teal Pumpkin Project, a growing trend that helps food allergic kids enjoy Halloween safely.

FNP Pam Wright has been with The Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center for twenty years! Learn how she transitioned from studying to become a registered dietician to becoming a family nurse practitioner and then to our specialty practice. Pam also shares her love for the University of Tennessee and staying active, and how she currently finds herself exploring new paths as her two kids are now students at – where else, UT! Enjoy this podcast episode hosted by Kaylie Plemens!

FNP Paige Miller shares a little bit about herself and her path to The Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center with host Kaylie Plemens. Paige is a University of Tennessee alumnus and has worked at East Tennessee Children's Hospital and with pediatrics at Knoxville Orthopedic Clinic. Prior to those positions (during her clinicals), Paige spent time at The Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center, and we're glad she came back around to us! Paige enjoys seeing patients of all ages at several of our locations. We're excited to get to know more about Family Nurse Practitioner Paige Miller, and we hope you will be, too!

Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS): an allergy to meat and other products made from mammalians, which is caused by a bite from the lone star tick. This recently discovered food allergy has some very important distinctions from other food allergies, including how it's diagnosed. In fact, if you're a meat lover, forest worker, or hunter, you're likely to test positive for alpha-gal antibodies, but you wouldn't have AGS. Listen as Dr. John Overholt shares the reason behind these important distinctions and how you can avoid unnecessary testing and food restrictions.

For any athlete or physically active individual, asthma can be a serious game changer. Dr. Nick Kolinsky and host Kaylie Plemens discuss how a proper diagnosis of asthma along with consistent medication for control can help folks of any age play better by providing better lung function. Not only can the right medications improve performance, but the right provider (a board certified allergist) can ensure you're following sport guidelines to reach your fullest potential.

Dr. Laura Green and host Kaylie Plemens go in-depth into asthma on this episode of Let's Clear the Air! Asthma can develop at any age, so it's important to know the degrees of asthma (mild to severe, managed to uncontrolled) and the treatment options that are available. Taking note of when and how often you wheeze, cough, or feel your chest tighten can help your provider determine the level of your asthma, along with clinical diagnostic tests, of course. Once you and your allergist have reached a diagnosis, a treatment plan can be put into place. Monitoring your asthma symptoms along with staying diligent with your medications can help you avoid emergency visits and can also lower your risk for long-term side effects from diseases such as COVID.

From Long Island to North Carolina, Texas to Tennessee, Dr. Jeff Schlactus brings a wealth of wisdom and energy to The Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center. Learn how the immune system captured the interest of Dr. Schlactus early on and has kept him interested in treating patients for more than 30 years now.

The fall season brings changes in weather and scenery, but it also tends to exacerbate the allergy and asthma symptoms of many people in the south. Dr. Rohman informs us that NOW is the time to start combating your fall triggers. Waiting until the leaves change colors will be waiting too long! So listen in as Dr. Rohman explains how this season has an almost seamless transition from allergen to allergen, and how having a plan in place and acting on that plan can make the fall season more enjoyable.

Dr. John Overholt talks with host Liz Edwards about the effects of summer heat on asthma sufferers and how to determine if you or your child has undiagnosed asthma. As we enter the dog days of summer, it's important to know how prolonged heat affects the overall air quality. While people with asthma may have multiple allergic triggers year-round, poor air quality in the summertime only increases the risks of an asthma attack. Dr. Overholt provides insight into how those dog days intensify respiratory irritants, what those irritants may be, and how to best avoid them – or at least reduce your exposure to them. Not sure if it's asthma? Dr. Overholt reviews the symptoms of an asthma flare and the steps involved in making a diagnosis.

From the sea to the air and now to the mountains of East Tennessee, Dr. Lance Potter provides patients at The Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center a wealth of wisdom and experience. Dr. Potter's family moved to Winston Salem, North Carolina, while he was still in high school. His mother, a nurse, was the impetus for his interest in medicine, but he also loved swimming as well as coaching a swim team and teaching swim lessons. After receiving a Health Profession Scholarship Program with the Navy, Dr. Potter became a General Medical Officer, treating submarine and diving staff (including on nuclear submarines in Washington). He then became a flight surgeon and was stationed in Atlanta, Georgia, when 9/11 occurred. Dr. Potter was involved in the deployment of people all across the United States and conducted missions off Cuba and medical support on shuttle missions. He finished his pediatric medicine in Portsmouth and rotated in allergy and immunology, which became a natural fit for him! Listen to learn more about the amazing journey of Dr. Potter and his expertise with patients of all ages (but his continued love for pediatric ones, including infants) at The Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center.