What causes allergies?
Allergies, which affect more than 50 million Americans each year, are caused by an overreaction of your immune system. When you inhale or come into contact with a foreign substance that your immune system doesn’t recognize, it immediately goes into overdrive to try to protect you.
Initially, your immune system develops antibodies to safeguard you from the substance. Then, each time you’re exposed to the foreign “invader,” your immune system releases chemicals like histamine, which leads to all of the inflammatory symptoms you experience.
It’s possible to become allergic to just about anything. Some of the most common allergens include:
- Foods, such as dairy, shellfish, nuts, peanuts, wheat, and eggs
- Prescription medications, particularly penicillin-based antibiotics
- Airborne substances, like pollen, grass, dust mites, and mold
- Insect stings, especially bees or wasps
Plus, even if you didn’t have allergies as a child, you can develop allergies later on in life. Your risk of struggling with allergies is high if they run in your family, or if you have hay fever or asthma.
When should I see a doctor for allergies?
It’s important to see a doctor for allergies and get started on treatment at the first sign of symptoms. After all, allergies can progress and increase your risk of anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening condition. The team at Pinnacle Health Group encourages you to come in for an allergy exam if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Runny or itchy eyes
- Coughing or wheezing
- Skin redness, itchiness, or hives
- Sneezing, or runny or stuffy nose
- Tingling in your mouth or facial swelling
Pinnacle Health Group can run allergy blood testing or even conduct a skin-prick test to find out which allergens are affecting you. Once they confirm your diagnosis, they can get you started on treatment.
How are allergies treated?
Your dedicated practitioner sits down and talks with you about your allergies, so you can learn what to avoid and make lifestyle changes to minimize your exposure to your known allergens. To help you combat allergies and prevent symptoms, your Pinnacle Health Group provider may recommend:
- Nasal sprays
- Antihistamine medications
- Allergy shots (immunotherapy)
- Emergency epinephrine shots
Your provider can adjust your allergy treatment plan at any time if it seems like your symptoms are worsening when you’re exposed to allergens.
With the help of Pinnacle Health Group, your allergies won’t have to control your life another day. Book your allergy appointment either online or over the phone.
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