Category: Community

Expert Insight from Michael D’Netto, M.D.

Many people experience unpleasant reactions to certain foods—but not all of them are true allergies. Understanding the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance is essential for proper diagnosis, treatment, and safety.

What Is a Food Allergy?

A food allergy is an immune system response. When someone with a food allergy eats even a small amount of the offending food, their immune system mistakenly identifies it as harmful and releases chemicals like histamine. This can cause symptoms such as:

• Hives or rash
• Swelling of the lips, face, or throat
• Difficulty breathing
• Vomiting or diarrhea

Common food allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, shellfish, soy, wheat, and sesame. 

“Food allergies can be life-threatening and require strict avoidance and emergency preparedness,” says Michael D’Netto, M.D., a Mayo Clinic Health System board-certified allergist and immunologist at WinnMed in Decorah. “Patients with a history of food allergies should carry an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g. Epi Pen) at all times.”

What Is a Food Intolerance?

A food intolerance, on the other hand, does not involve the immune system. It typically affects the digestive system and occurs when the body has difficulty processing certain foods. Symptoms may include:

• Bloating
• Gas
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea

Lactose intolerance is a common example, caused by a deficiency in the enzyme lactase. 

“Food intolerances are uncomfortable but not dangerous,” Dr. D’Netto explains. “They can often be managed by adjusting the diet or in the cast of lactose intolerance, by using enzyme supplements.”

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you suspect a reaction to food, consult an allergist. Skin testing, blood tests, and elimination diets can help determine whether it’s an allergy or intolerance. Dr. D’Netto emphasizes that accurate diagnosis is key to avoiding unnecessary dietary restrictions and ensuring safety.

Make an appointment

Dr. D’Netto is accepting new patients at WinnMed in Decorah.  Call WinnMed at 563-382-2911 or request an appointment online through WinnMed’s online portal, MyChart.

Expert Insight from Michael D’Netto, M.D.

Asthma and environmental allergies are often linked—but they are not the same. Understanding the difference is key to managing symptoms and getting the right treatment.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways in the lungs. It causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms such as:

• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Coughing, especially at night or during exercise 

Asthma can be triggered by a variety of factors, including respiratory infections, cold air, exercise, and allergens like pollen or pet dander.

What Are Environmental Allergies?

Environmental allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to a harmless substance—such as pollen, dust mites or pet dander — by releasing chemicals like histamine. This can cause:

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy eyes or skin

In some people, allergies can also trigger asthma symptoms. This is known as allergic asthma. 

How Are They Connected?

“Allergies and asthma often go hand in hand,” explainsMichael D’Netto, M.D., a Mayo Clinic Health System board-certified allergist and immunologist at WinnMed in Decorah. “In fact, many people with asthma have allergic triggers. Identifying and treating those allergies can significantly improve asthma control.”

Diagnosis and Treatment

An allergist can perform skin or blood tests to identify allergy triggers and determine if asthma is allergy-related. Treatment may include:

• Inhalers for asthma control
• Antihistamines or nasal sprays for allergies
• Allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots or tablets) to reduce sensitivity over time 

If you experience symptoms of asthma or allergies, talk to your provider about a referral to Dr. D’Netto for a personalized evaluation and treatment plan.

Make an appointment

Dr. D’Netto is accepting new patients at WinnMed in Decorah.  Call WinnMed at 563-382-2911 or request an appointment online through WinnMed’s online portal, MyChart.

WinnMed is pleased to welcome Decorah native Dailen Folkedahl, D.O., to its medical team. Dr. Folkedahl provides family medicine care for patients of all ages in the clinic setting and also serves as a hospitalist, caring for inpatients during their hospital stay.

Dr. Folkedahl earned her medical degree from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine in Biddeford, Maine, and completed her residency through the Genesis Quad Cities Family Medicine Residency Program in Davenport, Iowa. She is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and has special interests in women’s health, diabetes care, and community health. Dr. Folkedahl enjoys time with her family, traveling and walking her dog, Finnley.

“I believe that building strong relationships with my patients starts with truly listening,” said Dr. Folkedahl. “I prioritize open communication and take the time to get to know each individual. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to support their wellness and long-term health.”

Family medicine, also known as primary care, is a medical specialty dedicated to providing comprehensive and continuous care for individuals and families of all ages, genders, and health conditions. Family medicine providers serve as the first point of contact for patients, playing a vital role in preventive care, chronic disease management, and overall wellness. By building long-term relationships, they ensure personalized care and coordinate with specialists when needed. At WinnMed, nearly 25 physicians and advanced practice providers deliver primary care services in Decorah, as well as in outreach locations including Ossian, Mabel and campus clinics at Luther College and Upper Iowa University, serving the college population.

To make an appointment with Dr. Folkedahl, call 563-382-2911 or request an appointment through MyChart.