We may have heard people complain of allergic reactions after eating certain types of foods or when using certain types of medications. The most notable symptom is swelling and the appearance of a rash on the skin. People try to treat this allergic reaction using traditional methods like applying ash on the affected part, while others take herbal medicines to reduce the itchiness. An allergy is a reaction that the body’s immune system uses to signify there is a foreign substance. People vary in how allergies affect their lives. The allergy is just a nuisance to some, while to others, it may be life-threatening. Allergist surprise, AZ, is a multidisciplinary team of specialists that uses the latest allergy testing and the latest treatment for all allergy symptoms.
What causes allergies?
Allergic substances range from chemical pollutants to environmental exposures like pollens, weeds, and tobacco. To treat this allergy, one needs to reduce exposure to the allergen or take medications like nasal decongestants, steroid sprays, or antihistamines. For severe cases, immunotherapy may be needed to build up the body’s immune system. The most common allergies are household chemicals, latex insect stings, pollen, cockroaches, animals, foods, molds, dust mites, and medications.
The common allergy symptoms
· Swollen lips, eyes, face, or tongue
· Dry, red, and cracked skin
· Itchy red, watering eyes, also known as conjunctivitis
· Wheezing, shortness of breath, cough, and chest tightness
· Sneezing, blocked and runny nose
· Rashes that are itchy, red, and raised
· Vomiting, diarrhea, tummy pain, and feeling sick
Types of allergies
· Food allergies- may have symptoms like itching of the mouth, abdominal pain or diarrhea, difficulty swallowing, swelling of the face, mouth, throat, and other body areas, hay fever-like symptoms such as itchy eyes, and sneezing. There are two types of medication to relieve the symptoms of an allergic reaction to foods. To treat mild and moderate allergic reactions, antihistamines are used. Antihistamines help by blocking the effects of histamine, which is the cause of most allergic reactions. For severe allergic reactions, adrenaline is used. Adrenaline helps by narrowing the blood vessels to counteract blood pressure effects, thus opening the airways for easy breathing.
· Seasonal allergies include runny nose, swollen eyes, sneezing, itchy sinuses, throat and ear canal, ear congestion, and postnasal drainage. These symptoms may be managed by over-the-counter medications like antihistamines or prescription medications like steroid nasal sprays and avoidance of allergens that trigger symptoms.
· Severe allergies- may show symptoms like loss of consciousness, breathing difficulties, blue skin or lips, confusion, lightheadedness, and swelling of the mouth and throat. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.
Examples of allergy testing services
· Allergy shots
· Allergy blood test
· Allergy consultation
· Breathing test
· Food allergy testing
· Allergy skin test
· Environmental allergy testing
Can allergies be cured?
No, but one can control the symptoms through medication and avoidance measures. Allergy immunotherapy can as well be used in selected cases.
It’s always better to prevent than to cure; therefore, after one understands what triggers the symptoms of an allergic reaction, it’s better to use the avoidance policy. For parents with young children with allergic reactions who have not yet established the cause, it is wise to seek medical experts for further diagnosis and professional advice. Look no further because the answer is with the oasis ear, nose, and throat. They are specialists in this field and have many years’ of experience. Give them a call or visit their website for personalized service.