What are allergies?
Allergies occur when your immune system identifies benign substances like pollen, pet dander, or dust as a harmful invader. These trigger the production of antibodies, which can result in a variety of uncomfortable symptoms.
Allergies affect everyone differently. For some people, they’re a minor annoyance; for others, they can result in a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. Unfortunately, there’s no cure for allergies, but with healthy lifestyle changes and medication, it’s possible to keep them in check.
What are the symptoms of allergies?
Allergies can affect the sinuses, digestive system, skin, or airways. Common symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Swelling of the lips or tongue
- Hives (welts)
- Itching
- Chest tightness
- Trouble breathing
- Red or irritated skin
Serious allergic reactions may trigger anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis symptoms include a loss of consciousness, lightheadedness, a drop in blood pressure, nausea, and vomiting.
Who is at risk of experiencing allergies?
Allergies affect people of all races, genders, and backgrounds. However, you’re more likely to experience allergies if you have a family history of them, or you have asthma or another allergic condition like eczema.
How are allergies diagnosed?
To diagnose allergies, the team at New York Specialty Clinics reviews your medical history and asks about your symptoms, including their severity, frequency, and effect on your quality of life.
Your provider may order screening tests, such as:
Skin test
During a skin test, your provider makes several pinpricks and exposes you to one (or several) allergens. If you’re allergic to a particular substance, your skin turns red and swells, resulting in a welt.
Blood test
A specific IgE blood test measures the levels of allergy-triggering antibodies in your blood. This type of allergy testing is quick and pain-free, only requiring a simple blood draw.
How are allergies treated?
Treatment for allergies depends on your triggers and the severity of your symptoms. Allergy avoidance is often enough to improve your quality of life. Once you know the substances you’re allergic to, you can take steps to prevent contact with them.
The team at New York Specialty Clinics offers several other allergy treatments, including prescription medication, immunotherapy, and emergency epinephrine.
If allergies keep you from living your ideal life, schedule an appointment at New York Specialty Clinics. Call the office nearest you, or book online today.
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