People who suffer from allergies want to keep up-to-date on the latest information regarding treatment, but it's not always easy. Some doctors don't even know fact from fiction when it comes to treating allergies.
According to a study presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting, prevailing allergy myths have a long shelf life. The study surveyed 409 physicians -- either in internal medicine or pediatrics -- on the topic of treating allergies. The physicians all received six questions on allergy treatment, but because pediatricians treat children's allergies, they answered three additional questions.
"We asked what the best first treatment was for a patient experiencing vomiting and hives after eating a known food allergen," said allergist and ACAAI member Kara Wada, MD, lead study author. "Only 50 percent of internal medicine physicians knew it was epinephrine. And 85 percent of internal medicine physicians thought the flu vaccine shouldn't be given to egg-allergic patients. It's now known that it's safe for those with egg allergies to get the flu shot."
Other myths reported in the survey include:
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Materials provided by American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). Note: Content may be edited for style and length.
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