Allergies

What are allergies?

An allergy is your body’s response to a substance that triggers an allergic reaction to something that’s not harmful to many other people. Allergies might be mild, moderate, or severe. In some cases, they lead to extreme, sometimes deadly, symptoms when left untreated.

See Dr. Smith if you have signs of an allergic reaction to things like foods, pollen, or pet dander. He tailors allergy and asthma treatments to your individualized needs to provide long-lasting relief and a better quality of life. 

What may trigger an allergic reaction?

Common allergens may include:

• Pet dander
• Pollen
• Some foods
• Certain medications
• Mold spores
• Insect stings
• Dust mites
• Latex

Foods that some people are allergic to include eggs, milk, shellfish, fish, wheat, and soy. Peanuts and tree nuts are also common allergens.  

Which symptoms can allergies cause?

Allergies can cause the following symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Skin rash
• Hives
• Itchy skin
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Coughing
• Watery or itchy eyes
• Sneezing
• Face, throat, lip, or tongue swelling
• Problems swallowing
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Low blood pressure
• Dizziness
• Passing out
• Anaphylaxis (severe, often life-threatening allergic reaction)

Anyone can develop allergies, but risk factors include a personal or family history of allergies, asthma, and eczema. 

How are allergies diagnosed?

Dr. Smith diagnoses allergies by reviewing your medical history, discussing your symptoms, and completing a physical exam. 

He may order blood testing, skin prick tests, food challenge tests, or patch testing to learn which specific substances your body reacts to. He uses this information to create an effective allergy treatment plan.

How are allergies treated?

Your personalized allergy treatment may consist of:

• Allergen avoidance
• Over-the-counter medications
• Prescription medications 
• Nasal sprays 
• Nasal rinses
• Inhalers
• Allergy shots
• Sublingual immunotherapy
• Oral immunotherapy
• EpiPen® 

An EpiPen helps eliminate dangerous symptoms until you’re able to seek medical attention. It can be life-saving.

It’s also beneficial to adopt healthy habits, such as getting enough sleep, staying active, eating nutritious foods, and minimizing stress. Clean your home often and change the air filters regularly. Keep your windows closed during times of the year when pollen counts are highest. 

Follow up with Dr. Smith to ensure effective, long-lasting relief from allergies and/or asthma, and call the office anytime with questions. 

Schedule an in-person or telemedicine allergy appointment at KC Cares Med by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.