Allergies

What You Need to Know

About Allergies

There are hundreds of ordinary substances in the environment that can trigger allergic reactions. Among the most common are plant pollens, household dust, pets, foods, and medicines. Asthma and allergies can affect anyone, and although allergy symptoms often start in childhood, they can occur for the first time at any age.
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The human body has the remarkable ability to defend itself against harmful viruses or bacteria. But when the body mistakenly identifies non-harmful substances (like pollen or dust) as dangerous, the defenses are too aggressive and can cause unpleasant, uncomfortable symptoms. At Allergy & Asthma Care of Wylie, we work with you to develop a plan of action to minimize your discomfort and treat immune system disorders.

Signs and Symptoms of

Food Allergies

Research shows that the causes of food allergies are a mix of genetic and environmental factors. These factors include age (younger children are more prone to allergies) and the existence of related medical conditions. Some of the common signs that you may have a food allergy are:

• Tingling or itching in the mouth
• Hives
• Swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat
• Wheezing, nasal congestion or trouble breathing
• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting

Recognizing

Skin Allergies

Our skin is an important barrier that protects the inside of our bodies. Skin cells keep the body safe from viruses, bacteria, and other hidden threats. When these cells detect suspicious substances, they trigger a reaction that results in skin allergy symptoms. This is known as contact dermatitis or a contact allergy. Common symptoms include:

• Rough, scaly, or flaking skin
• Excessive itching
• Cracks in the skin that are prone to bleeding

If your skin is prone to these symptoms, Dr. Angela can help with diagnosis and treatment. Many different substances can trigger skin allergies. Some of the most common include poison ivy, jewelry made of certain metals (especially nickel), fragrant soaps, rubber, and certain deodorants.

Common Symptoms of

Drug Allergies

Your immune system fights off viruses, bacteria, parasites, and other dangerous substances when they enter your body. If you have a drug allergy, your immune system mistakes the drug for a harmful foreign substance and attempts to get it out of your system. This can cause symptoms, such as:

• Hives
• Trouble breathing
• Swelling
• Unconsciousness

Since doctors often prescribe drugs when we fall ill, it’s important to know which medications, if any, you are allergic to in order to avoid potentially harmful (or even fatal) episodes. Call us today to schedule a consultation for drug allergy testing to gain peace of mind.

Know the Signs of

Venom Allergies

When people think of venom, they often think of fangs and snakes. However, insects like wasps, bees, and even fire ants also produce venom and can harm people with an allergy to the substance. If you are stung by an insect, symptoms of a venom allergy may include the following:

• Itching and hives
• Swelling in the throat or tongue
• Difficulty breathing
• Dizziness, stomach cramps, nausea or diarrhea

For a small number of people with venom allergy, stings can be life-threatening. Dr. Angela will give you peace of mind with a proper diagnosis, treatment plan, and tips for careful avoidance. When you know whether you have a venom allergy and are well-equipped with the tools to treat the issue, you’ll feel more confident and be able to enjoy being outdoors.

Signs of a Common Condition

Eczema

Since eczema affects over 30 million Americans and about 15% of infants, it’s important to be aware of its causes and symptoms. Eczema is commonly found in families with a history of other allergies or asthma, and is often characterized by:

• Dry, sensitive skin
• Red, inflamed skin
• Very bad itching
• Dark colored patches of skin
• Rough or scaly patches of skin

Eczema most commonly appears on the face, back of the knees, wrists, hands, or feet. If you or your child suffers from these symptoms, come in to see Dr. Angela for a consultation, diagnosis, and relief.

Understanding

Hives, Urticaria, Angioedema

Hives, also known as urticaria, affects about 20% of people at some time during their lives. It can be triggered by many substances or situations and usually starts as an itchy patch of skin that turns into swollen red welts. The itching may be mild to severe, and this can be made worse by scratching, the consumption of alcoholic beverages, exercise, and emotional stress. While hives affect the upper layer of skin, angioedema is the swelling of the lower layer of skin and is commonly associated with urticaria.

Take Action Against

Seasonal Allergies

Many Americans suffer through seasonal allergies because they are temporary and cease once irritants are no longer in the environment. But you don’t need to let sneezing, coughing, and head congestion keep you from enjoying your day during allergy season. Seasonal allergies are typically triggered by:

• Grass
• Tree pollen
• Mold
• Weeds

Don’t just deal with your seasonal allergies, get treatment for them at Allergy and Asthma Care of Wylie. Call us today at (972) 954-9826 to book an appointment!