The Impact of Climatic and Environmental Factors for Asthma ER Visits in NYC Cindy Law Mary Lee-Wong, MD

What are Allergies? An abnormal sensitivity to an allergen that is inhaled, eaten, or touched Misidentification of a harmless substance as harmful

Common Types of Allergies Allergic rhinitis Food Medication Insect stings Latex chemical

Allergies and the Immune System B-lymphocytes &T- lymphocytes Lymphocytes identifies a foreign invader Foreign antigens cause production of antibodies 5 types of immunoglobulins

Allergy Cascade

Places and Symptoms of Reactions The sensitized immune system produces antibodies against allergens which cause the release of histamines into bloodstream

What is Asthma? Chronic lung condition with Inflammation of the airways Increased sensitivity of the airways Obstruction of airflow

Normal Bronchial Tubes

Airways

Symptoms of Asthma Coughing Wheezing Chest tightness Shortness of breath Faster/ noisy breathing

What causes Asthma? Allergens Irritants Others

Levels of Asthma Mild intermittent Mild persistent Moderate persistent Severe persistent

Spirometry Test Measures how much and how fast air can move into your lungs 60%-79%; mild 40%- 59%; moderate <40%; severe

Inhalers

Pollen Count Rotorod Sampler 0-14; low 15-89; moderate ; high <1500; very high

Pollen Grains

Objective Seasonal variables such as increased temperatures, relative humidity, mold counts and pollen counts may contribute to increased ER visits for asthma and other upper respiratory symptoms. Previous studies have reported increased ER visits for asthma due to increased air pollution at different times of the year. Since pollen can cause asthma exacerbation, we investigated whether there is a strong correlation of asthma exacerbation when pollen counts are at their highest.

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Special Thanks to: Harlem Children Society Dr. Sat Dr.Mary Lee-Wong Beth Israel Medical Center