Addressing Allergies and Cardiovascular Disease with QHSLab's Comprehensive Health Approach
Allergies and cardiovascular disease (CVD) are both prevalent and impactful health issues. Accumulating evidence has uncovered a significant connection between these conditions, underscoring the importance of a holistic health approach. At QHSLab, our allergy baseline assessment and whole-health approach are designed to address this growing crisis effectively.
The Link Between Allergies and Cardiovascular Disease
Recent findings from the U.S. National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) reveal a strong relationship between asthma, allergic rhinitis (AR), and CVD. For 20 years, data from over 600,000 adults indicated that individuals with asthma or AR are at a higher risk of developing heart conditions such as coronary heart disease (CHD) and angina. Specifically, lifetime asthma was associated with increased odds of CHD, while past-year asthma attacks significantly heightened the risk of angina. Similarly, AR was independently linked to increased odds of CHD.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Comprehensive Care
Early diagnosis and comprehensive care are crucial because of the link between allergic conditions and CVD. Unfortunately, current practice guidelines do not emphasize evaluating inflammatory outcomes among patients with asthma and AR. This gap in care can lead to unmanaged chronic inflammation, which is a key factor in the progression of both allergies and cardiovascular conditions.
How QHSLab Can Help
At QHSLab, we provide primary care physicians with the tools to deliver holistic care through our comprehensive health screenings and journeys. Our digital assessments are user-friendly and easy to interpret and cover various health conditions, including allergies. By taking a whole-health perspective, we help physicians understand the broader context of each patient's life and health, which is essential for effectively managing allergies and cardiovascular risks.
Three-Step Process:
We offer a structured three-step process to address allergies and related health concerns effectively:
Screening with QHSLab: Our reimbursable allergy baseline assessment and other whole-health assessments help detect and monitor allergic conditions and lifestyle factors early. This allows physicians to identify risk factors and intervene early, potentially preventing the progression of related health issues like CVD.
Point-of-Care Testing with AllergiEnd: To confirm suspected allergic diseases, we offer point-of-care testing with AllergiEnd. These needle-free skin tests are easy to administer, designed for primary care, safe for pediatrics, and test for the most common allergens. They are FDA-cleared and provide reliable results that help in diagnosing allergic conditions accurately.
Immunotherapy Options: If necessary, we offer immunotherapy in Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) or Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT) forms. These therapies help manage and treat allergies effectively, reducing symptoms and improving the patient's quality of life.
Whole-Health Perspective:
QHSLab's tools offer a holistic look at patient health, taking into account various factors that impact wellness. The Q-Scale, for instance, provides insights into a patient's quality of life, covering aspects such as sleep quality, stress management, and overall well-being. This comprehensive approach ensures that physicians can address both physical and mental health concerns, supporting patients through their health journeys.
Evidence-Based Resources:
Our health journeys are intended to equip physicians with data to offer resources like the SleepWell Podcast series. These resources support lifestyle wellness, promoting better sleep, stress management, and overall health. By addressing allergies, promoting a healthy lifestyle, and managing inflammation, QHSLab helps mitigate the risks associated with allergies and cardiovascular disease.
The growing evidence linking allergies and CVD is alarming and highlights the need for a comprehensive and early intervention approach. By integrating QHSLab's tools into their practice, physicians can better support their patients, improving clinical outcomes and overall wellness.
Contact us today for more information on how QHSLab can transform your practice and improve patient care.