Allergies affect over 50 million Americans each year. There are many different types of allergies, such as food allergies, skin allergies, seasonal allergies and more. While some allergies are only a mild inconvenience, others can lead to chronic and life-threatening conditions. Atlanta allergy sufferers will want to know their treatment options, but first it is very helpful to understand the causes.
What Are the Primary Causes of Allergies?
The reaction triggered by these allergies varies considerably, highlighting the need for a personal approach to treatment.
Food
Various foods can lead to allergic reactions. Peanuts and tree nuts can be quite dangerous for some people and can potentially cause anaphylaxis. Shellfish allergies are also common. An allergy to milk can be difficult, as dairy products are found in many different products.
Pollen and Dust
Hay fever sufferers certainly understand the aggravation pollen can cause. Seasonal allergies of this kind usually lead to runny noses, itchy eyes and headaches. Dust is another problem, with poor ventilation, air conditioning units with mold build-up and even pet dander triggering allergic reactions.
Insect Bites and Stings
An insect bite or sting might lead to some minor swelling and itching. However, it is quite possible to have a more serious response that requires medical attention. Bees, wasps, ants and mosquitoes are among the main causes of allergic reactions to insects.
Skin Reactions
Skin reactions have various contributing factors. Eczema causes the skin to dry out and become susceptible to allergic reactions. Nickel in jewelry can lead to irritation, redness and even swelling of the skin. Various plants and medications can also lead to skin reactions of varying degrees, from minor to extreme.
Effective Allergy Treatments
Though it would be wonderful if everyone responded the same positive way to an allergy treatment, that’s not the case. While one of the below options may work for you, it may not work for someone else. The severity of the allergy impacts the treatment methods and the response as well.
Environmental Adjustments
Changing your environment based on your allergy can be an effective step. This process involves avoiding specific food types, ventilating your home, dusting regularly – and staying home when the pollen count is high.
Medication
Various medications are available for treating different allergies. Allergy testing can provide an accurate diagnosis and your doctor can then prescribe the right treatment. Some examples include antihistamines, decongestants, creams or lotions and steroid inhalers.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy involves receiving allergy shots of a gradually increasing dosage. This process helps to desensitize a person to a particular allergen. For food allergy sufferers, oral immunotherapy achieves similar results. This treatment, conducted under medical supervision, involves consuming small amounts of the food that causes an allergic reaction.
Auto-Injectors
Auto-injectors are used in emergency circumstances where a reaction causes anaphylaxis and other severe problems. An epinephrine auto-injector is often carried by allergy sufferers who are most at risk of a life-threatening response to an allergen.
Start Treating Your Allergies
Not all allergies are the same. At Chacko Allergy, we aim to find the cause of your allergy and create a tailored treatment solution. We have allergy treatment clinics in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. To make an appointment, call us today at 678-668-4688.
