Overcome the Fear of Swallowing Pills: 3 Simple Tricks for Kids & Adults | Episode 22

Send us Fan MailDo you or your child dread swallowing pills? You are not alone! Up to 40% of people struggle with it, but it's a skill you can learn.In this essential "How-To" episode of Allergy Actually, your bestie allergist moms – Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd – are holding a pill-swallowing masterclass. They share their personal struggles, pro-tips, and the simple, science-backed techniques that can make taking medication way easier.Learn the #1 trick that opens your throat (hint: it's the opposite of what you think!), how to practice safely with non-medication items like Tic Tacs, and why using a thick liquid like applesauce can be a game-changer for kids. They also discuss when difficulty swallowing might be a sign of a more serious medical condition like Eosinophilic Esophagitis. This is a must-watch for any parent or adult tired of crushing pills or dealing with gag reflexes.EPISODE IN A GLANCE02:21 The "Applesauce Trick" for Kids Who Hate Pills03:44 How to Practice: The "Orange Tic Tac" Method04:59 The #1 Technique: Leaning FORWARD to Swallow09:38 Pill Swallowing Alternatives: Cutting & Crushing Pills Safely10:16 When It's More Than Fear: Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)WRITE A PODCAST REVIEWSEND US A [email protected] HOSTSKARA WADA, MDDr. 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.WebsiteLinkedInInstagramFacebookYoutubeTikTokAMBER PATTERSON, MDDr. 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.WebsiteInstagramInstagramFacebookYoutubeMEAGAN SHEPHERD, MDDr. 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.InstagramFacebook