What Are Allergies?
Allergies are the reactions your body experiences in response to certain foods or other substances. But while the concept may seem straightforward, there are many types of allergies, and yes, their symptoms can vary. For Atlanta adults and children with allergies, understanding your allergy and how it works can be the start of a successful treatment plan.
Why Do We Experience Allergic Reactions?
The immune system is the collection of cells, organs and chemicals that fight against infections. An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system incorrectly identifies a substance as being harmful and attacks it. Substances that trigger this response are called allergens, and they enter the body via swallowing, inhalation, injection or direct contact with the eyes, skin or nasal pathways.
A person without allergies can eat foods or inhale pollen, and their body recognizes they are not at risk. But for an allergic person, the perceived threat leads to the symptoms of an allergy. The varying severity of an allergic reaction makes allergies unpredictable and potentially dangerous – and therefore requiring assessment, diagnosis and treatment.
What Are the Main Types of Allergies?
- Food – Including peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, milk, eggs, wheat, soy.
- Pollen – Grass and tree pollen can cause hay fever.
- Pet dander – Small flakes of skin or hair from an animal.
- Medicine – Various antibiotics can cause allergic reactions.
- Insect bites – Bites and stings from bees and other insects.
- Chemicals – Many chemicals found in regular household products.
- Mold – Mold spores in the nasal cavities and lungs.
- Latex – The material may cause skin rashes and hives.
The reactions to the allergen vary based on the severity of the allergy, and so do the allergy treatment options.
What Are the Common Allergy Symptoms?
Most allergy symptoms are experienced minutes after coming into contact with the allergen. Look out for some of the following signs of an allergic reaction.
- Runny or blocked nose
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Skin rash
- Hives
- Swelling on the face and lips
- Itchy eyes
A less common but more severe reaction is anaphylaxis. This type of response is potentially life-threatening, and fast action is critical for preventing possible cardiac arrest and other complications. Anaphylaxis may result in the same common symptoms along with dizziness, disorientation and difficulty breathing. Fortunately, an epinephrine auto-injector can provide a quick recovery and prevent serious illness.
When Should You See a Specialist for Your Allergies?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for an allergy. Some allergies go away as a child grows up, while others can be treated using allergy shots and oral immunotherapy treatment. Start the process of treatment with a consultation at your Georgia allergist. Allergy testing will identify exactly what allergens you need to be wary of, and an effective treatment plan can then be formulated.
There are various circumstances (occurring prior to and after a diagnosis) that are clear signs that you should speak with an allergist. The first sign is when your allergy symptoms disrupt your daily life, causing discomfort, preventing sleep and affecting your school or work life. If you’ve been tested for allergies before, you might already have an allergy treatment plan. However, you may need an alternative approach, such as learning how allergy desensitization works and considering if it’s the best treatment for you or your child.
Many people use antihistamines or nasal sprays when seasonal allergies come around. You should also see an allergy specialist if you’ve been relying on over-the-counter medication, yet these items are failing to give relief. Unfortunately, patients with moderate or severe allergies frequently struggle with their symptoms after trying various medication options. A professional testing and treatment plan will provide a more targeted approach based on your test results and medical history.
Finally, you should see a specialist when you’re managing a series of related conditions. For many people with allergies, the struggles with asthma, eczema or chronic sinusitis go hand-in-hand. Allergies might not be the direct cause of these other conditions, but they frequently exacerbate symptoms and prevent long-term relief. An allergy specialist will help manage these conditions together for a more effective response to symptoms.
Get Effective Treatment for Allergies
If you are experiencing the symptoms of an allergy, it is vital that you are diagnosed by an experienced allergist. Our doctors provide allergy testing and treatment from any of the Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center locations. For an appointment, call 678-668-4688 or contact us online.
