Spring has sprung! But so has allergy season
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, allergies are classified as a chronic disease. So, what are allergies? An allergic reaction occurs when the body’s immune system treats an allergen such as pollen, as a harmful substance. The immune system overreacts and forms an antibody known as immunoglobulin E. When this antibody responds to allergens, you experience what is known as an allergic reaction.
Allergy Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on type of allergy. Common allergy symptoms include itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, hives and bloating. Additional symptoms that can be more serious reactions include swelling, redness, rashes, pain, tongue swelling, difficulty breathing, feeling faint, chest tightness, vomiting and diarrhea. A severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. If you have a severe allergy, it is crucial to keep self-injectable epinephrine on hand.
Types of Allergies include drug, food, insect, latex, mold, pet and environmental. Medicine is the leading allergy for adults while food allergies are the most common in children.
How do Doctors Diagnose Allergies?
A doctor will first ask about your personal and medical history. Before visiting the doctor, you may want to keep a log of when you experience the most allergic reactions. Your doctor will then examine areas that are common to show signs of allergies such as your ears, nose, throat, chest and skin. In order to determine specific allergies, your doctor may perform a skin test or patch test to look for physical signs of an allergic reaction as well as a blood test to confirm the results.
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