Anyone with allergies will recognize the common symptoms of breathing, sinus, skin and digestive complaints. Fortunately, with a personalized allergy treatment plan, these symptoms no longer hold the same threat. However, many people never actually seek out a professional diagnosis for allergies, putting their health at risk. If seasonal allergies are getting you down, consider these common treatments used at our Atlanta center.
Best Treatment Options for Allergies
Allergists prescribe treatments after carefully evaluating a patient’s symptoms, medical history and test results. The following allergy treatments are among the most common remedies.
Allergy Avoidance
Allergy avoidance is a vital first step before a consultation with an allergy doctor. Of course, avoiding allergens like pollen, dust, mold and pet dander is never easy. But a person can reduce exposure by remaining indoors on days with high pollen counts, keeping the home clean, being aware of their surroundings and so on.
Antihistamines
Contact with allergens causes the immune system to release histamine. And while histamine is an essential chemical for the body, it can also cause allergy symptoms. Antihistamines regulate the release of histamine after contact with an allergen, preventing congestion, sneezing, runny noses and other symptoms.
Nasal Sprays
Steroid nasal sprays reduce inflammation and make it easier to breathe easily. Corticosteroids are most commonly used to treat hay fever, and can offer much-needed relief after allergen exposure.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, is one of the best long-term solutions for allergies. This treatment desensitizes the immune system to an allergen through gradual exposure. Patients receive allergy shots from their allergist until tolerance is developed and common allergy symptoms are no longer experienced. A similar treatment, oral immunotherapy, is used for food allergies.
Epinephrine Auto-Injectors
Allergists give epinephrine auto-injectors to patients at risk from anaphylaxis. This treatment is essentially an adrenaline shot that a person can administer when experiencing a severe allergic reaction.
Best Natural Allergy Treatment Options
While natural allergy treatments won’t prevent allergic reactions, they can offer relief in certain circumstances. Natural allergy treatments include the following.
- Nasal irrigation – A saline wash can reduce congestion and clear out allergens.
- Air filters and dehumidifiers – Air filters capture allergens like dust and particulates.
- Vitamins – Vitamins help strengthen the immune system to reduce allergy symptoms.
- Exercise – Exercise leads to stronger blood flow that helps remove allergens from the system.
How to Determine the Appropriate Allergy Treatment
A consultation with an allergist will determine the cause of your allergic reactions. Diagnostic methods include allergy testing to identify the exact allergens responsible. Your allergist can then develop a treatment plan using medication, immunotherapy and other solutions that address your specific situation.
Professional Allergy Treatment Solutions in the Atlanta Area
At Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center, we minimize the risk of allergic reactions using accurate testing services and proven allergy treatments. For a personalized treatment plan, visit one of our centers in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment today.
