Watering eyes. Runny nose. Puffy eyes. Head congestion. Allergies can cause a good day to worsen in a matter of minutes. An allergy is the body’s overreaction to a substance that doesn’t affect most people.
What Are Allergies?
While the human body works hard to ward off destructive viruses and bacteria, allergies are caused when an overreaction occurs to less harmless things, such as dust, mold, and pollen. The body then treats these substances as invaders, and releases chemicals to fend them off. Unfortunately for humans, these chemicals then cause mild to severe allergic reactions.
Allergic reactions can affect any part of the body, including the nose, eyes, lungs, sinuses, throat, skin, and more. Allergists work with patients to determine allergic reaction culprits, conduct additional testing, and provide effective treatments.
Allergy Testing
Allergy testing is often used to determine the source of allergies and/or allergic reactions. Allergy testing near Birmingham, AL area, is done in a controlled environment once a patient reaches a specific age. It is an uncomfortable, but reliable process. For individuals with allergies, it can be life-changing, as an appropriate treatment plan can then be implemented. Should a serious allergic reaction occur, the patient is already under care of a physician. This ensures patient safety during the allergy testing process.
Allergy Shots
Some patients experience allergies that are so severe they must receive monthly allergy shots. These shots are often given in addition to prescription allergy medication in an effort to better control allergic reactions. Many patients find that they require these shots more often at certain times throughout the year. Allergy testing near Birmingham, AL, will guide allergists on the course of treatment that is necessary for each patient’s allergy maintenance.
Food Allergies
In opposition to seasonal allergies, food allergies can be life-threatening. Very few patients have a true food allergy. Most often, patients have a food intolerance. Common food allergies include soy, wheat, dairy, eggs, tree nuts, and shellfish. Our Food Allergy Treatment Center offers programs that reduce the severity of reactions and give patients the opportunity to live their lives free of the fear and anxiety that comes with a severe food allergy. For more information, contact at Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center.
