Chronic rhinosinusitis is long-term swelling of the nose and sinus passages that lasts for 12 weeks or more. It causes ongoing congestion, facial pain or pressure, postnasal drip and difficulty with sense of smell.

Sometimes chronic rhinosinusitis can cause small growths in the nose called nasal polyps. These are soft, painless, noncancerous lumps. Globally, about 5-12% of people live with chronic rhinosinusitis, and up to 30% of them also develop nasal polyps. When both conditions are present, it’s called chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP).

How does CRSwNP affect asthma?

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps can worsen asthma. The nose, sinuses and lungs are part of a “united airway.” Any inflammation in the upper airways can trigger asthma symptoms and flare-ups in the lower airways. Polyps can also disrupt airflow.

Due to the chronic nature of the conditions, people with CRSwNP and asthma tend to struggle with worse quality of life.

What causes CRSwNP?

The exact cause of CRSwNP is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to its development.

Sinuses and nasal passages are lined with a protective mucosal barrier that blocks germs and irritants. In people with CRSwNP, this barrier is weakened. When microbes and irritants get through, they can trigger long-lasting inflammation in the sinuses. Over time, this constant inflammation can change the structure of sinus tissue, leading to the growth of nasal polyps.

People with both CRSwNP and asthma may also have high levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies and/or eosinophils in their body.

• IgE is a protein in your blood that helps fight germs. In some patients, it can cause allergic reactions.
• Eosinophils are white blood cells that fight infections. Too many can increase inflammation.

It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis. Your healthcare provider will take a detailed history of your symptoms and perform a physical exam. Additional tests may include:

• Lung function tests. These can help diagnose or reveal the severity of asthma.
• Blood tests. These can help determine levels of IgE and eosinophils for both asthma and CRSwNP.
• Sinus CT scan. Images of your sinuses and nasal cavity can reveal the severity of CRSwNP.
• Nasal endoscopy. This involves a tiny camera inserted into your nasal passages to search for polyps.
• Allergy tests. These help identify allergies that could be triggering symptoms. (They are also used to diagnose allergic asthma.)

CRSwNP triggers often overlap with asthma triggers. They include allergens such as pollen, mold or pets. Nonallergic triggers include respiratory viruses, tobacco smoke, air pollution and cold, dry air.

How to treat asthma and CRSwNP together

Asthma and CRSwNP require different treatments. Medications are available. Working together with your doctor to manage both conditions gives you the best chance for relief and better breathing.

For asthma, it’s essential to keep symptoms under control. Most people use a daily controller inhaler with an inhaled corticosteroid. These medications can help reduce inflammation and keep the airways open. Quick-relief inhalers are also available for sudden asthma symptoms or attacks.

For CRSwNP, corticosteroid nasal sprays are the first-line treatment. They can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the nose. A short course of oral corticosteroids can shrink polyps and improve a stuffy nose, but long-term use can cause serious side effects. If medications aren’t working, surgery to remove the polyps may be an option.

Biologic medications can treat asthma and CRSwNP together. Given as injections every 2–4 weeks, they are often a good choice for people with moderate to severe symptoms who haven’t found relief with other treatments.

Biologics target the underlying inflammation, not just the symptoms. They help reduce airway swelling, improve breathing and can even shrink nasal polyps. Some biologics are specifically approved for people with high IgE or eosinophil levels. This can help patients maintain control of both asthma and CRSwNP.

Healthcare providers may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as avoiding triggers. This can also help reduce asthma and CRSwNP symptoms and help you feel better.

How to start taking control

If you have asthma with chronic sinus symptoms, it’s time to meet with your healthcare provider. Consider seeing a specialist such as a board-certified allergist. Ask about testing for CRSwNP, since sinus problems and nasal polyps may be making your asthma symptoms worse.

Visit AllergyAsthmaNetwork.org to learn more about asthma and CRSwNP.

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Lung cancer can enter a person’s life like a tornado, creating chaos out of nowhere and leaving them feeling powerless. Nobody chooses to have lung cancer, but thanks to advances in research and treatment, some choices may lower the chances of lung cancer shortening life.

Choices that reduce risk of lung cancer

Five out of six lung cancer patients smoked tobacco at one time, and quitting at any age reduces your chances of lung cancer and other smoking-related diseases. There have never been better options to help people quit, including more effective nicotine replacements, medications to curb withdrawal symptoms and counseling.

Other cancer-causing chemicals can make their way into the air, such as radon — an odorless gas that can seep into homes from the ground — or smoke from cooking and wildfires. Test your home for radon and address levels if elevated. Minimize situations where the air you breathe is irritating to your nose and throat. Avoid contact with chemicals in poorly ventilated spaces. Use air filters and wear an appropriate mask to help decrease exposure until the air clears.

Choices that lead to earlier detection

Lung cancer screening can detect disease earlier when treatments tend to be easier on patients and more effective. For people who smoke tobacco or smoked in the past, a yearly CT scan can dramatically reduce a person’s chance of dying of lung cancer. Current or former smokers aged 50 or older should ask their primary care provider about lung cancer screening.

One in six lung cancers happens in someone who never smoked and can sometimes run in families. Currently, there are no screening recommendations for never smokers, but this is an area of intense research. People with an immediate family member, such as a parent or sibling who developed lung cancer as a never smoker, should ask their primary care providers about screening during their yearly check-up, as screening recommendations are likely in the next few years.

While it is better to find lung cancer before symptoms occur, there are symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored. People with a cough that does not improve after 4 weeks, or who cough up blood, should contact their primary care provider and potentially have chest imaging.

Choosing better treatment

It is important to include lung cancer experts on your care team who know all the latest incredible breakthroughs in lung cancer. Experts not only will know the right tests, procedures and treatments to offer you, but will understand what parts of your treatment can be handled close to home and what parts may need to happen in a larger hospital that may have more resources in case something goes wrong. The American College of Surgeon’s Commission on Cancer is an organization that ensures hospitals follow the best practices and have the right people to deliver high-quality care to cancer patients. You can connect with a cancer team at an ACS Commission on Cancer accredited hospital.

Lifestyle choices can also improve the safety and effectiveness of cancer treatment for many types of cancer. Quitting smoking, even after you have been diagnosed, can significantly reduce complications of treatment and improve cure rates. Other healthy habits can benefit cancer patients. For example, researchers recently found that patients who exercised after their cancer treatment experienced better survival rates.

Choosing a better tomorrow

Cancer research saves lives. In the past five years the survival rates of patients with advanced lung cancer have quadrupled because cancer research brought us new treatments. However, we have more work to do. In the U.S., more than 120,000 people lose their battle with lung cancer every year, so we must keep looking for a better way. You can help by supporting the people who support medical research — from contributing to research fundraising to advocating with policy makers. Research is our best chance at turning hope into miracles.

Getting screened, lowering your risks, recognizing potential symptoms, seeking the right care and supporting research are all choices today to keep lung cancer from shortening your life in the future.

Daniel J. Boffa, MD, MBA, FACS, is vice-chair of the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer and a professor of Thoracic Surgery at Yale School of Medicine, specializing in treating esophageal and lung cancer.

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The challenge for parents and caregivers? Infants and toddlers are unable to tell you what’s wrong. They don’t yet have the words to describe what they’re feeling. It’s up to you to recognize that something serious may be happening.

That’s why it’s important to learn the unique symptoms of anaphylaxis in very young children — and know how to respond quickly.

Allergy & Asthma Network, the leading national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health of people with asthma, allergies and related conditions, recently launched a new Infant Anaphylaxis online guide. It includes practical information and resources for parents and caregivers.

What is anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis occurs when the body’s immune system reacts to a substance — such as food, medication, an insect sting or latex — as if it were dangerous. This triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals, leading to a chain reaction of severe symptoms.

The response can affect multiple body systems, including the skin, breathing, digestion, nervous system, and heart. Because babies can’t tell you how they feel, the signs are more subtle — and easy to miss.

Without prompt treatment, anaphylaxis can cause swelling of the airways, breathing difficulties, or even shock. Epinephrine is the first line of treatment for anaphylaxis.

What causes anaphylaxis in young children?

Food allergies are the most common cause of anaphylaxis in infants and toddlers. Foods that may cause a reaction include cow’s milk, infant formula, eggs or peanut products. Infants may also develop symptoms when a mother consumes a food allergen and it passes into her breast milk.

Certain medications such as penicillin-based antibiotics may cause allergic reactions. Insect venom from a sting and latex are other potential allergic triggers. Latex can be found in bottle nipples, pacifiers and other rubbery products.

Experts now recommended introducing common food allergens to babies at 4-6 months of age. Research shows that when babies eat these foods early and often, their immune systems can learn to accept them instead of reacting to them. This can reduce the risk of food allergies later in life.

If your baby has eczema or already has a food allergy, speak with a pediatrician or pediatric allergist before introducing common food allergens into your child’s diet.

What are the symptoms of anaphylaxis in infants and toddlers?

Anaphylaxis can look different in infants and toddlers than it does in older children and adults. Recognizing the early signs is critical. Symptoms can change quickly and may become life-threatening if not treated right away.

It’s important for parents and caregivers to watch closely for physical or behavioral changes. Here are some common signs of anaphylaxis in each body system, with additional signs to watch for in infants and toddlers:

Breathing

• Common signs in all ages: shortness of breath, cough, tight or hoarse throat, swelling of lips or tongue that impacts breathing
• Additional signs in infants and toddlers: belly breathing, rapid breathing, nasal flaring, tugging the chest or neck, hoarse cry

Heart

• Common signs in all ages: skin color is pale or has a bluish tint, weak pulse, dizziness or fainting
• Additional signs in infants and toddlers: blotchy discoloration of the skin, fast heartbeat, appearing limp or wobbly with poor head control

Skin

• Common signs in all ages: many hives across the body
• Additional signs in infants and toddlers: obvious swelling on the face

Stomach

• Common signs in all ages: severe vomiting or diarrhea (may be combined with other symptoms)
• Additional signs in infants and toddlers: vomiting more than once, vomiting or diarrhea combined with other symptoms

Behavior

• Common signs in all ages: feeling of “doom,” confusion, agitation, altered consciousness
• Additional signs in infants and toddlers: very tired, difficult to wake up, withdrawn, crankiness, inconsolable crying

Symptoms of anaphylaxis may vary among babies and can be different each time a baby has an allergic reaction.

Treating anaphylaxis

Infant anaphylaxis is a medical emergency needing immediate action. Epinephrine is the only medication that effectively treats anaphylaxis. It’s key to always have at least two doses on hand, as symptoms can sometimes come back after the first dose is given.

If you think your child has been exposed to a food allergen, or severe symptoms are occurring in one or more body system, give epinephrine right away. If symptoms are mild but occurring in more than one body system, you should also give epinephrine. Seek emergency medical help if your baby’s symptoms are severe, come back or worsen after the first dose, or don’t go away completely.

Ask your child’s pediatrician for an epinephrine prescription for your child. Make sure you feel comfortable giving it. Teach others who care for your child how to administer it.

Learn more at AllergyAsthmaNetwork.org.

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And with good reason: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 13 children — roughly two per classroom — are affected by food allergies. Of those, 42% have experienced at least one severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis. For children at risk, even a small exposure can be life-threatening.

The good news? With the right preparation, you can help your child manage food allergies with care and consistency. Discover how to educate, plan and confidently communicate with school staff and other parents to support your child throughout the school year.

Awareness and education are key

What is a food allergy? Simply put, it’s an allergic reaction that occurs after eating a food allergen. Your body’s immune system mistakenly responds to a certain food as if it were a harmful germ, causing an allergic reaction.

In children, the most common food allergies are to peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, fin fish and shellfish.

A serious allergic reaction involves two or more body organs — the skin, lungs, stomach and/or heart. Symptoms may include:

• Hives on the skin, sometimes on several parts of the body
• Shortness of breath, wheezing, repetitive cough
• Tightness in the throat, hoarse, trouble swallowing
• Swelling of the tongue, lips or throat
• Stomach discomfort such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea or vomiting
• Blood pressure changes
• Pale, faint, dizzy, confused

Epinephrine is the only medication that can stop anaphylaxis. Administer it as soon as possible. Remember the rule: “Epinephrine First, Epinephrine Fast.”

10 tips for a safe school year

Here are 10 essential tasks to help ensure your child with food allergies is safe, supported and included at school.

1. Schedule a back-to-school health checkup. Obtain updated medication forms, epinephrine prescriptions and an emergency care plan. Discuss whether new food allergy therapies — such as biologics — might offer added protection in case of accidental exposure.
2. Meet with school staff. Discuss food allergy accommodations in the cafeteria and classroom. Review the emergency plan. This is especially important if your child starts a new school.
3. Teach your child how to stay safe. Help your child recognize signs of an allergic reaction and understand when and how to ask for help. Make sure your child knows who to turn to and what steps to take in an emergency.
4. Be ready for the first day of school. Submit all required school health forms, drop off your child’s epinephrine and share a copy of the emergency care plan.
5. Pack allergy-safe meals and snacks. Make sure your child only eats what is safe based on his or her dietary restrictions.
6. Plan for snacks and special events. Confirm school policies for snack times and meals during field trips. Encourage no sharing of food.
7. Ensure epinephrine is easy to access. Find out if the school stocks epinephrine, where it’s stored, and if the staff is trained to administer it in an emergency. Remember, your child is permitted by law to self-carry an epinephrine device.
8. Address bullying and exclusion. Talk with your child about speaking up if they are being excluded, teased or bullied due to food allergies. Encourage talking with a trusted adult.
9. Check in with your child. Make it a habit to ask your child how things are going at school, including if there’s any difficulty managing food allergies.
10. Keep the conversation going. Communication between home and school is key. Keep teachers, school nurses and staff informed of any changes in your child’s health or needs.

Food allergies don’t have to get in the way of a safe, fun school year. With a little planning and teamwork, you can help your child thrive in and out of the classroom. For more information, tools and resources, visit AllergyAsthmaNetwork.org.

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Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), also known as nurse anesthesiologists or nurse anesthetists, partner with patients to safely provide anesthesia and pain management that addresses all aspects of care before, during and after procedures. CRNAs are trained to provide safe, effective care that supports patients along each step of the procedure and promotes optimal recovery.

As experts in delivering safe anesthesia care, the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) shares tips to help prepare you or your loved one for surgery.

Consider yourself part of the team

You have an important role in your own healthcare. It’s important to be involved in your care decisions, so make sure you understand the process and ask your surgeon or anesthesia provider any questions you may have.

What to expect before anesthesia

Some preparation is required, even weeks ahead of your procedure.

• Pre-admission testing may be ordered by your surgeon/anesthesia team. Testing and the questions your team asks are important to reduce your risk of allergic reactions, drug interactions or physical complications, so make sure your responses to questions are accurate and truthful.

• Schedule a ride from a responsible individual. According to a recent statement issued by AANA, Patients should not be permitted to drive themselves home after the procedure or surgery, particularly if they received sedation or anesthesia. It’s important to receive a ride home from someone you know and trust. Rideshare services are only responsible for transportation. Rideshare drivers are not responsible for caring for the patient during transport or upon arrival at their destination. Healthcare providers recommend that someone stay with you up to 24 hours post-surgery.

The day before the procedure

You’ll be directed to follow specific instructions, so ask questions if anything is unclear. Following all instructions helps support your safety and prevents delay or cancellation of surgery. Common instructions include:

• Fasting: You’re typically asked not to eat or drink anything after midnight. Be sure to clarify with the care team of what’s allowed and when.
• Medications: Follow your surgeon’s directions for taking or stopping medicines.
• Alcohol, smoking, vaping and drug use is prohibited 24 hours before procedures. Cannabis recommendations vary and may be 72 hours to 10 days. Check with your provider or care team.

The day of surgery

Before the procedure, your anesthesia provider will review your health history, allergies, medicines (including over-the-counter medications or supplements), previous procedures and more. This helps your anesthesia provider develop a safe, effective anesthesia care plan, so it’s vital to be accurate and truthful.

“One of the most important things patients can do before surgery is be honest about any medications they take — including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and current or past drug use,” said AANA President Janet Setnor, MSN, CRNA, Col. (Ret), USAFR, NC. “This information helps nurse anesthesiologists tailor care safely and avoid complications. We’re here to protect you, not to judge you.”

Types of anesthesia

Different forms of anesthesia can be used, depending on the procedure.

• Local anesthesia via injection numbs an area of the body, typically for minor procedures. You may stay awake or receive additional medicine to help you relax.
• Light/moderate sedation through an IV makes you feel relaxed and reduces anxiety. You may feel sleepy but will still be responsive, although you might not remember much.
• Deep sedation administered through an IV causes a decreased state of consciousness in which you may be less responsive and not easily aroused.
• General anesthesia may be administered through an IV, inhaled gas, or both. You will lose consciousness and won’t feel pain during surgery. You may also forget the surgery and the time immediately afterward.
• Regional anesthesia is given through injection near nerves or your spinal cord to numb an area of the body. You may stay awake during the procedure or receive sedation or general anesthesia.

After anesthesia

When your procedure is complete, you may become aware of your surroundings in the operating/procedure room or the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), or recovery room. Nurses will monitor you and provide medications as needed to improve comfort and treat any possible side effects. Be sure to tell the nurse your pain level so they can provide appropriate medication.

Returning home

When your healthcare team determines you can safely be discharged, they will review instructions with you (and your caretaker, if available) and provide written information. Make sure you understand your instructions and ask any questions.

CRNAs also recommend that you:

• Return to activity: Optimize recovery by returning to daily activities the day of/day after surgery. Consult your physician for specific instructions on activities you can and cannot do during recovery.
• Begin eating: Slowly return to a regular diet unless your provider has put you on a special diet, with small meals at first. To prevent constipation, drink lots of fluids and include foods with fiber like fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Delay important decisions/signing legal documents: Anesthesia and pain medications may impair decision-making abilities for 1-2 days.
• Don’t drive/operate machinery: Reactions and judgment may be impaired up to 24 hours. Ask your provider when you’re allowed to drive.
• Only take medications prescribed by or discussed with your care team.

Follow all discharge instructions and contact your care team with questions or concerns.

CRNAs are anesthesia professionals who have been providing anesthesia care to patients in the U.S. for over 150 years and administer over 58 million anesthetics to patients each year. As highly educated, experienced advanced practice registered nurses, CRNAs deliver safe, high-quality anesthesia care. They’re compassionate and patient-centered, always supporting the health and well-being of their patients. Learn more at AANA.com/about-us/about-crnas.

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When symptoms get worse, doctors may prescribe oral corticosteroids (OCS). If you’re prescribed OCS to treat severe flare-ups of these or related conditions, make sure to have an open conversation with your doctor about these medications. Learn how OCS can get symptoms under control. Ask about the risk of potential side effects.

1. What are OCS?

Oral corticosteroids are human-made steroid medications modeled after cortisol, a natural hormone produced by the adrenal glands. These pills or liquid medications are used to quickly reduce inflammation. Examples of OCS include:

• prednisone
• prednisolone
• methylprednisolone
• dexamethasone

OCS are inexpensive, fast-acting drugs. They are typically prescribed in a short course, or burst, of three to five days. That is often all it takes for OCS to provide relief from symptoms.

OCS differ from inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and topical corticosteroids. ICS, delivered through an inhaler or nebulizer, act directly on the lungs and airways as a daily controller medication for asthma. Topical corticosteroids, on the other hand, are applied to the skin to treat localized inflammation from eczema.

OCS are also different from anabolic steroids, which are related to the male hormone testosterone and sometimes used for muscle building.

2. What are OCS prescribed for?

OCS are powerful anti-inflammatory medications used to treat a wide range of medical conditions. They are mostly prescribed to manage flare-ups of respiratory and allergic conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps and sinusitis. They are sometimes used to treat severe flare-ups of skin conditions such as eczema, chronic hives or psoriasis.

In addition, OCS are used to treat autoimmune diseases like arthritis, lupus and inflammatory bowel disease.

3. What are the benefits of OCS?

OCS can quickly reduce inflammation and swelling in various body systems, including the airways and skin. They can provide relief and effectively stop symptoms from worsening.

This is why OCS are prescribed for severe asthma symptoms, nasal inflammation, and eczema flares, among other conditions. They are not usually prescribed for long-term daily management or control of symptoms.

4. What are the potential side effects of short-term OCS use?

OCS can quickly treat flare-ups, but they can cause serious side effects. That’s why doctors prescribe them in short courses of three to five days – to minimize the risk and impact of side effects.

Some short-term side effects include:

• Weight gain, particularly in the abdomen, face or neck
• Eye problems
• Muscle weakness
• Insomnia and sleep problems
• High blood pressure
• Elevated blood sugar levels
• Swelling in lower legs
• Gastrointestinal issues (heartburn, nausea)
• Mood changes and irritability
• Depression and anxiety

5. What are the potential side effects of long-term OCS use?

In rare cases, doctors prescribe OCS for long-term use when inflammation is severe, and the benefits outweigh the risks and side effects.

Long-term use can lead to the following side effects:

• Skin thinning and easy bruising
• Osteoporosis and bone loss or weakness
• High blood pressure and cardiovascular risks
• Diabetes onset
• Slow growth in children
• Immune system suppression and increased infection risk
• Adrenal gland suppression and hormonal imbalance
• Glaucoma and cataracts

6. What is OCS overuse?

Oral corticosteroids have a high rate of success in treating flare-ups. As a result, some people may develop a reliance on them for treatment. They may want to continue taking OCS to keep their condition under control.

OCS overuse is defined as when you take the medication at a dose or duration that increases the risk of adverse effects without a clear benefit.

The overuse may occur when you:

• take more than 2 courses or bursts of OCS per year, especially for asthma symptoms;

• take OCS daily or regularly for more than 3 months, particularly at high doses.

How much is too much? This is a conversation you should have with your doctor to decide what’s best for your medical condition.

7. How to prevent OCS overuse?

If you are prescribed two or more courses of oral corticosteroids per year, this is a sign that your condition is not well-controlled. You may need to adjust your treatment plan instead of continuing to rely on OCS.

Talk with your doctor – preferably a specialist such as an allergist or dermatologist – to discuss treatment options. Ask about advanced treatments such as biologics to help keep your symptoms in check.

Learn more about OCS and OCS overuse at AllergyAsthmaNetwork.org.

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Many adults experience changes to their sense of smell. Twelve to 13 percent of Americans over age 40—about 13.3 million people—have problems with their ability to smell. These problems—known as “smell disorders”—are more common in men than women. The risk of having a smell disorder also increases with age; nearly 25 percent of men ages 60 to 69 have a smell disorder.

People with a smell disorder either have trouble smelling odors, or they experience odors differently than most people do. There are four types of smell disorders:

• Hyposmia – you have trouble detecting odors
• Anosmia – you can’t detect odors at all
• Parosmia – the way you perceive odors changes; for example, something that normally smells pleasant now smells foul
• Phantosmia – you perceive an odor that isn’t there

Smell disorders have many causes besides aging. Other causes are:

• Viruses
• Sinus inflammation and other upper-respiratory infections
• Smoking
• Head injuries
• Hormonal disturbances
• Dental problems
• Some medications
• Conditions that affect the nervous system

Changes in a person’s sense of smell can be short or long-lasting. Some people regain their ability to smell when they recover from the illness that caused the change. Others recover their sense of smell spontaneously, for no obvious reason.

If you experience changes in your sense of smell, talk to a doctor. Smell disorders can be a sign of a serious underlying health condition and can have a negative effect on your quality of life. An otolaryngologist—a specialist in diseases of the ear, nose, throat, head, and neck—can help identify the cause of a potential smell disorder and offer options for treatment.

Curious about how your sense of smell works? Learn how smells travel from the source to your brain and the reasons behind changes in your sense of smell in this short video from the National Institutes of Health at the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD). You can find this video at https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/smell-video. For more information on your sense of smell and smell disorders, visit NIDCD at https://www.nidcd.nih.gov.

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However, despite growing demand, RTs have been facing a workforce shortage. Now more than ever, it’s important to know how the respiratory care profession not only brings value to patients and care teams but can be a rewarding, life-long career path.

What is a Respiratory Therapist?

Respiratory Therapists are trained to care for people with conditions that impact the lungs and respiratory system.

“If you’re struggling to breathe, a respiratory therapist is your best friend,” said Dana Evans, MHA, RRT, RRT-NPS, FACHE, FAARC, FNAP, Respiratory Therapist and President of the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC), a professional organization that supports and advocates for the respiratory care profession and its members.

From the first breath and beyond, RTs help patients at all stages of life.

“It’s a tremendously rewarding career with so many diverse opportunities,” said Evans. “A Respiratory Therapist might start their day in the emergency department caring for a toddler with croup, then spend the next hour in labor and delivery helping a new baby take their first breaths. They end their day caring for a patient with COPD in the intensive care unit. Respiratory Therapists are vital to the care of patients of all ages. Many RTs choose to specialize and may focus all of their time in one area too.”

You can breathe easy knowing you have a Respiratory Therapist at your side

The respiratory care profession is built on consistent, high-quality patient care, especially during high-stress times like flu season, when cases of respiratory illness are at their highest. RTs spend years refining their skills and establishing themselves as critical components of any patient care team.

Evans explains that RTs have a wide array of professional opportunities, and their roles are constantly expanding.

“Respiratory Therapists are the people that are at the bedside with that clinical expertise and specialty in respiratory and pulmonary illness that help you breathe easy when it counts,” said Evans.

The need for more respiratory professionals

Despite the increasing need, the U.S. is currently experiencing a shortage of RTs. According to MoreRTs, the number of current and aspiring RTs is decreasing. This shortage has raised concerns about meeting the high demand for respiratory care now and in the future.

How you can make a difference one breath at a time

If you’re searching for a career that makes a lasting and meaningful impact, consider training as an RT. Respiratory therapy is an art and a science that allows you to learn and develop precise skills to deliver consistent, high-quality patient care. Every day as an RT presents new challenges, making this a rewarding career path.

To learn about respiratory therapy and how to start your journey, visit AARC.org.

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What is urticaria?

Urticaria is a rash causing round, swollen areas on the skin. It can be tender, itchy and/or painful. People with light skin may see red, raised bumps or welts. In people of color, hives may match the color of surrounding skin or appear slightly lighter or darker. They may appear all over your body or in one area.

Urticaria occurs when chemical compounds involved in the body’s inflammatory and immune responses are released. One of these chemicals is histamine, which is released by mast cells and basophils. When this release happens in the skin’s outer layers, it results in hives.

Most hives resolve quickly, but they can become chronic. Acute urticaria refers to hives lasting one day to six weeks. Chronic urticaria means the hives have lasted for six weeks or longer. For many people, the cause is unknown.

Chronic urticaria is a rare condition that occurs in only 23 out of 10,000 people, though the actual number may be higher, since many people do not report or recognize the symptoms. Chronic urticaria is most common in adults aged 40-59. More women than men are affected, and more Black Americans and other ethnic groups are affected. There are two types:

• Chronic idiopathic urticaria (also called chronic spontaneous urticaria) is not triggered by external factors. In many cases, the cause could be an autoimmune condition, another systemic disease like cancer, or unknown.
• Chronic inducible urticaria is caused by certain environmental and physical factors.

Identifying urticaria triggers

Common triggers include:

• Allergens, including certain foods
• Exposure to heat/cold
• Tight clothing
• Insect stings and bites
• Infections and viruses
• Medications such as antibiotics and NSAIDs
• Diseases including asthma, celiac disease, diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, vasculitis and vitiligo
• Stress

Diagnosis and treatment

The cause of your chronic urticaria may be hard to identify. It’s best to see a specialist such as a board-certified allergist or dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.

Your doctor may perform allergy tests, lab tests or a skin biopsy to rule out other conditions that involve or resemble hives. You can help by keeping a diary that tracks your symptoms.

Chronic urticaria eventually goes away by itself. Management focuses on the most appropriate treatment to control symptoms, usually starting with the first line of treatment: a long-lasting antihistamine.

Antihistamines block production of histamine to reduce or eliminate hives and ease itch and swelling. Ask your doctor for a non-sedating antihistamine.

Topical itch creams may provide mild relief for hives that do not cover the entire body.

Corticosteroids: Topical corticosteroids reduce inflammation, irritation and itching. By reducing inflammation, they also promote healing. For a severe hives flare-up, a short course of oral corticosteroids (prednisone) can help reduce inflammation and itching. These medications can cause serious side effects, especially if taken long-term. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking oral corticosteroids.

Advanced treatments

It’s important to work closely with your doctor if your hives don’t respond to treatment. If antihistamines alone do not help, your doctor may recommend combining them with other medications, including leukotriene modifiers or H2 blockers. New advanced treatments are available, and more are in clinical trials or undergoing FDA review.

Biologics: Omalizumab is a biologic medication used to treat chronic urticaria when antihistamines haven’t worked. Two more biologics are in development as chronic urticaria treatments: dupilumab is in FDA review and briquilimab is in clinical trials. Biologics work by targeting cells and interrupting the inflammatory process. This stops or reduces symptoms. Biologics are injectable medications typically given once per month.

Cyclosporine: This is an oral medication that calms the immune system to prevent hives from occurring. It can be taken along with antihistamines. Since cyclosporine is an immunosuppressive, it can decrease the body’s ability to fight infections. Talk with your doctor about side effects and the benefits vs. risks of taking this medication.

Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor: Remibrutinib is an oral medication in clinical trials. It works by blocking the activation of mast cells and basophils. These cells release histamine and other inflammatory mediators that cause hives, swelling and itching. By blocking this process, remibrutinib can reduce or eliminate symptoms.

Hives and mental health

It’s important not to blame yourself for your hives. If you’re feeling anxiety, depression or embarrassment about your skin condition, talk with your healthcare provider or a mental health specialist. Support groups for people with urticaria also let you share experiences and know you are not alone.

Don’t let chronic urticaria impact your quality of life. Talk to your doctor. Check out the Chronic Urticaria Toolkit at ChronicHives.info.

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For many, mental health was likely a key focus, continuing the trend from last year when about 40% of resolutions were aimed at improving mental well-being. However, as the novelty of January fades, it’s easy for even the best intentions to slip. Studies have shown that by February, many people have already abandoned their resolutions.

Rather than letting your commitment to mental health dim, now is the perfect time to renew your focus and keep your mental health a priority.

Whether you’re following through on your resolution to improve your mental well-being or simply seeking to continue your efforts, staying intentional about mental wellness can have lasting benefits for both your emotional and physical health.

Dr. Donald Tavakoli, UnitedHealthcare’s National Medical Director for Behavioral Health, provides the following tips to help you keep your mental health on track throughout the year:

1. Build a supportive network

Surrounding yourself with understanding friends, family and mentors can provide essential emotional support. A strong social network can help prevent feelings of isolation and promote resilience. Research shows that social support plays a crucial role in mental health. Don’t be afraid to reach out and be open with your loved ones.

2. Emphasize sleep

Adequate sleep is fundamental to mental well-being as insufficient sleep may negatively affect emotional regulation and cognitive function. Prioritize restful sleep by establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a calming bedtime routine and optimizing your sleep environment. Proper sleep also benefits your overall well-being.

3. Limit social media:

Studies have linked excessive social media use to a higher risk of depression and anxiety, particularly among young people. It’s important to keep in mind that a person’s social feed often doesn’t reflect their entire life story. Instead, try to embrace the ups and downs of life as normal, focus on the here and now, and invest in your offline relationships.

4. Reach out for professional support

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your primary care physician (PCP). If you don’t have a PCP, now is a great time to establish a relationship with one. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Your PCP can provide valuable insights and care, and referrals if needed.

5. Utilize your insurance benefits

You might be surprised to learn that your health insurance plan includes mental health benefits which may cover employee assistance programs, virtual therapy sessions, coaching or digital self-help tools such as Calm Health. These options make it easy to access the support you need in different ways. If you have mild behavioral health concerns, digital self-help tools and virtual coaching can be a great place to begin. If you have any questions or need more details, simply call the number on your insurance card for assistance.

Prioritizing mental health enables you to work toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. By improving your mental well-being, you set the stage for achieving broader goals, including nurturing relationships and fostering personal growth. Make mental health a central focus as you navigate 2025.

For more information about mental health resources, visit UHC.com.

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