Allergies

Allergies

Do you have any allergies? If so, you probably want to learn more about them and why you have one. An allergy occurs when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance such as pollen from plants or trees, molds, pet dander, bee venom, insect stings, certain foods (such as peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, shell fish, eggs and milk), prescription drugs and synthetic materials such as latex. Allergies can range from mild to life-threatening depending on the body's reaction to the irritant. The immune system produces substances called antibodies (which are immune system chemicals, such as histamine) that are basically the body’s attempt to fight off the offending stimulus. Symptoms of allergies are sneezing, itching, stuffy runny nose, watery eyes, skin rash, hives, flaking or peeling skin, lung congestion, wheezing, swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, and face. Certain drugs can cause severe, life-threatening allergic reactions in susceptible individuals called anaphylaxis.

Most symptoms of allergy can be treated with simple antihistamines but severe allergic reactions may require treatment with epinephrine injections with devices such as epi-pen.

Complications of allergic reactions can include asthma, sinusitis and infections of the ears or lungs.

Allergic reactions such as hives, eczema or contact dermatitis can usually be diagnosed during a physical examination. In more severe cases of allergy, treatment may be preceded by skin testing to determine the probable cause.