What caused my allergies?
Your immune system mistakenly identified the allergen as a threat to your body and treated it as an invader. That causes your immune system to release histamine and other chemicals, which are responsible for allergy symptoms. This happens any time the allergen gets into your body.
What are the signs of allergies?
Allergy symptoms differ depending on the kind of allergen that bothers you. Some allergens cause skin problems, such as hives or rashes, while others affect your respiratory system and cause sneezing, coughing, and breathing problems. Other allergens, such as some foods, cause diarrhea or other digestive problems.
What kinds of allergens are there?
There are many allergens that your body might identify as a threat. In fact, Dr. Allen can test for around 72 different allergens. Some of the more common allergens include the following:
- Outdoor allergens, such as pollen and ragweed
- Indoor allergens, such as pet dander and dust mites
- Food allergens, such as peanuts and eggs
- Insect allergens, such as bee stings
- Medications, such as penicillin
- Chemical allergens, such those contained in cleaning products
What types of allergy tests are there?
Skin tests are the most common type. They involve getting an injection containing the suspected allergen. A visible reaction to the allergen, such as a reddish bump, means that you’re allergic to it.
Dr. Allen might also order a blood test or another type of allergy test if skin test results aren’t conclusive.
How are allergies treated?
Avoiding allergens is the most effective way to prevent allergic reactions, but this can be impractical.
Dr. Allen might recommend taking medications that ease allergy symptoms or getting a Kenalog shot for allergies that affect your joints. You might also benefit from having allergy shots that help your immune system become desensitized to a certain allergen.
Keep in mind that you might need to carry an epinephrine auto-injector if you have severe allergies, such as a peanut or bee sting allergy.
If you need allergy testing or treatment, please contact Total Care Family Practice to make an appointment with Dr. Allen.
