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Does your family love skiing, but your kid (or you!) turns into a "snot fountain" on day one? You're not alone! That constant drip in the cold isn't always allergies—it's often a condition called non-allergic (vasomotor) rhinitis, and it's manageable.

In this essential "How-To" episode of Allergy Actually, your bestie allergist moms – Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd – share their ultimate survival guide for skiing and other outdoor winter sports.

From pre-slope preparation and the "secret weapon" prescription nasal spray that stops a drippy nose, to asthma pre-treatment and long-term solutions like immunotherapy, this episode is packed with practical tips. Learn what to pack in your ski jacket, why you need to wash your gear, and how to make your winter adventures enjoyable and snot-free.

EPISODE IN A GLANCE
01:33 Understanding Cold-Induced Runny Nose (Vasomotor Rhinitis)
02:40 Pre-Slope Preparation: What to Pack in Your Pockets
04:39 The "Secret Weapon" for a Drippy Nose: Ipratropium Explained
05:22 Long-Term Solutions: How Immunotherapy (ILIT™ Protocol) Can Help
07:56 Gear Maintenance, Eye Protection & Aftercare Tips

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ABOUT HOSTS
KARA WADA, MD
Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal.
Website
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube
TikTok

AMBER PATTERSON, MD
Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network.
Website
Instagram
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube

MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD
Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life.

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It's a brand new year, which means fresh calendars, fresh intentions... and the same old allergies waiting for their spring comeback. But not this year!

In this episode of Allergy Actually, your bestie allergist moms – Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd – talk about how to achieve an immune system reset that actually lasts. They blend powerful insights on habit formation with a crucial medical strategy: starting immunotherapy during the off-season (winter) to prepare for your easiest allergy season yet.

If you're looking to harness the power of prevention, this episode explains why January is the perfect time to commit to a treatment plan that will deliver measurable relief by spring. Stop playing catch-up and start living ahead of your allergies.

EPISODE IN A GLANCE
01:17 Prevention vs. Cure: Why It Matters for Allergies
01:59 Why You Should Start Immunotherapy When You Feel Good
05:07 Beating the Odds: Micro-Habits for Treatment Adherence
07:11 Planning Your Allergy Year: Expectations and Medication Breaks
09:17 Letting Go of Limiting Beliefs: Visualizing a Better Allergy Season

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ABOUT HOSTS
KARA WADA, MD
Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal.
Website
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube
TikTok

AMBER PATTERSON, MD
Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network.
Website
Instagram
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube

MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD
Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life.

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The Allergy Mom Survival Kit: What We ACTUALLY Carry in Our Bags

Every mom has her go-to bag of tricks, but allergy moms take it to a whole new level! From EpiPens to safe snacks, wet wipes to inhalers, our bags practically run a mini clinic.

In this fun and highly practical episode of Allergy Actually, your bestie allergist moms – Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd – are unzipping their bags to show you the real essentials they carry every day. They discuss the critical basics that keep their kids and themselves safe, the surprising multi-use products they rely on (hello, Aquaphor!), and the modern tech that serves as a med alert bracelet.

Whether you're managing food allergies, asthma, or just chronic dryness, this episode is your guide to creating your ultimate "allergy survival kit" to minimize friction and maximize safety in your everyday life.

EPISODE IN A GLANCE
01:33 Minimalist Approach & Travel Antihistamines
02:35 Aquaphor: The Multi-Purpose Essential
03:54 Tissues: A Must-Have for Runny Noses
04:54 Managing Dryness: Eye Drops, Lozenges & Chapstick
06:10 Phone as an Allergy Tool: Emergency Contacts
08:05 Medical ID & Modern Alternatives
08:34 How to Build Your Personal Allergy Kit

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allergyactually@gmail.com

ABOUT HOSTS
KARA WADA, MD
Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal.
Website
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube
TikTok

AMBER PATTERSON, MD
Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network.
Website
Instagram
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube

MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD
Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life.

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GLP-1 medications (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro) are everywhere, but the conversation is shifting from just weight loss to their powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Are these drugs helping with asthma, chronic hives, and allergic inflammation?

In this essential episode of Allergy Actually, your bestie allergist moms – Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd – dive deep into the intersection of metabolic and immune medicine. They break down the early data, share real-life patient and personal experiences (including Dr. Shepherd's personal journey with a GLP-1 for anxiety and weight loss), and explain the fascinating connection between obesity, inflammation, and difficult-to-control asthma.

If you or a loved one are on a GLP-1 or are considering it, this episode cuts through the hype and confusion to give you clear, expert-backed answers on what's real and what's still unknown.

EPISODE IN A GLANCE
00:43 What GLP-1s Are & How They Impact Metabolism
02:00 The Obesity-Asthma Link & Inflammation
02:27 Patient Experience: GLP-1s and Chronic Hives (Urticaria)
03:30 Dr. Meagan Shepherd's Personal GLP-1 Journey (Weight, Anxiety & Asthma)
05:27 The Chicken vs. Egg Cycle of Asthma, Exercise & Weight
07:26 Early Data: GLP-1s and Mast Cell Activation Disorders
07:44 Acquisition: How to Get Insurance Coverage for Weight Loss Indications

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allergyactually@gmail.com

ABOUT HOSTS
KARA WADA, MD
Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal.
Website
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube
TikTok

AMBER PATTERSON, MD
Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network.
Website
Instagram
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube

MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD
Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life.

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Love the idea of allergy shots but don't have 3-5 years to commit to weekly appointments?

In this essential episode, your bestie allergist moms are joined by esteemed colleague Dr. Christopher Brooks, Assistant Clinical Professor of Allergy Immunology at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. They tackle the pivotal question: Is immunotherapy worth the commitment for your severe hay fever and allergic asthma?

Dr. Brooks dives into the modern landscape of allergy treatment and explains why ILIT (Intralymphatic Immunotherapy) is a true game-changer. Hear why *he* chose to be an expert in this field, the powerful success stories of patients being treated with ILIT at an academic center, and how having more options—shots, drops, or ILIT—empowers you to make the best, most convenient decision for your life.

EPISODE IN A GLANCE
01:12 What is Immunotherapy?
03:00 The Importance of Patient Options (Shots, Drops, ILIT)
06:00 Patient Success Story: Life-Changing Relief After ILIT
08:26 Patient Success Story: Tolerating ILIT After Severe Shot Reactions
08:57 Why ILIT is a "Perfect Fit" for Quick Relief & Busy Lives
10:04 Find an Expert: The Auni ILIT Learning Network

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ABOUT GUEST
DR. CHRISTOPHER BROOKS
Dr. Christopher Brooks is an Assistant Clinical Professor of Allergy Immunology in the Department of Otolaryngology at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. He is an expert in modern immunotherapy and an active member of the Auni ILIT Learning Network.

ABOUT HOSTS
KARA WADA, MD
Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal.
Website
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube
TikTok

AMBER PATTERSON, MD
Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network.
Website
Instagram
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube

MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD
Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life.

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Facebook

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Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts That Feel Good (Allergy & Sensitivity Friendly)

If you’ve ever tried to find the perfect holiday gift for someone with food allergies, asthma, eczema, or fragrance sensitivities, you know it can feel overwhelming. What is safe? What won't trigger a reaction?

In this fun and practical episode of Allergy Actually, your bestie allergist moms – Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd – break down what truly works. They share personal stories and creative ideas to help you navigate gift-giving without guesswork or stress.

From safe self-care items and cozy home products to meaningful experience gifts and non-food alternatives, this episode is your guide to choosing presents that feel safe, beautiful, and genuinely supportive.

EPISODE IN A GLANCE
01:31 The Value of Experience Gifts (The $20 Shopping Spree & Museum Memberships)
03:55 Gifts to Avoid: Fragrance, Bath & Body Works & Eczema Triggers
07:12 The Best Teacher/Coworker Gift: Making Cash Thoughtful
08:16 The Holiday Gift-Giving "Avoid List" (Alcohol, Scented Items, Live Plants)
13:00 Costume Hacks for Eczema/Sensitive Skin (Layering!)

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SEND US A SUGGESTION
allergyactually@gmail.com

ABOUT HOSTS
KARA WADA, MD
Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal.
Website
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube
TikTok

AMBER PATTERSON, MD
Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network.
Website
Instagram
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube

MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD
Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life.

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Facebook

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Holiday Allergy Hacks: Real vs. Fake Christmas Trees & Handling Dusty Decor

If you love decorating for Christmas but hate the sneezing, wheezing, and itchy eyes that sometimes follow, this episode of Allergy Actually is for you.

In this cozy and practical episode, your bestie allergist moms – Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd – break down the biggest allergy triggers hiding in holiday decor. They tackle the age-old debate: Is it better to have a real Christmas tree or an artificial one? They cover everything from hidden mold spores and fragrant natural oils to dusty ornaments and irritating plastic VOCs.

Learn simple, easy-to-implement hacks for keeping your home merry and breathable—like dusting outside and giving yourself permission to skip a year of decorating. This is your essential guide to enjoying the magic without the misery.

EPISODE IN A GLANCE
00:37 Real vs. Artificial Trees: The Central Debate
01:03 The Real Culprit on Christmas Trees (It's Not Pine Pollen!)
02:52 Why Attics & Basements Cause a Reaction
04:18 The Best Way to Dust Decor (A Practical Solution)
05:33 Permission to Skip: Taking the Stress Out of Decorating
06:34 Flocking, Glitter & Clean Air Strategy

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SEND US A SUGGESTION
allergyactually@gmail.com

ABOUT HOSTS
KARA WADA, MD
Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal.
Website
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube
TikTok

AMBER PATTERSON, MD
Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network.
Website
Instagram
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube

MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD
Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life.

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Facebook

Send us a text

Thanksgiving Allergy Hacks: How to Be a Great Guest (Without Feeling Like a Burden)

Thanksgiving and holiday get-togethers are supposed to be fun, but when you have food allergies, asthma, or environmental sensitivities, being a guest can come with a lot of stress. Today, your bestie allergist moms are breaking down simple, real-life hacks on how to navigate the holidays safely and politely.

In this practical episode of Allergy Actually, Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd share their top tips for being a thoughtful guest and managing potential pitfalls. They cover everything from communicating your needs ahead of time to navigating pet dander, powerful perfumes, and food potlucks without feeling awkward or being a burden. This is your essential guide to enjoying the moments that matter without sacrificing your health.

EPISODE IN A GLANCE
00:53 The Importance of Taking Breaks & Self-Care During Gatherings
03:11 Communicating Food Allergy Needs to Hosts (Kara's Egg Allergy Story)
05:00 Navigating Pet Allergies: Communication, Pre-Treatment & Exit Plans
06:23 The Reality of Pet Dander: Why Vacuuming Isn't Enough
06:27 Pro-Tips for Pre-Treating Environmental/Pet Allergies
08:15 Final Thoughts on Perfume & Fragrances

WRITE A PODCAST REVIEW

SEND US A SUGGESTION
allergyactually@gmail.com

ABOUT HOSTS
KARA WADA, MD
Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal.
Website
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube
TikTok

AMBER PATTERSON, MD
Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network.
Website
Instagram
Instagram
Facebook
Youtube

MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD
Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life.

Instagram
Facebook