Allergy

The only way to treat your allergy symptoms is to determine exactly what is causing them. This is done through a series of allergy tests. What Is a Skin Prick Test? A skin prick test is the most common form of allergy testing. This test involves placing a small drop of an allergen extract on…

Allergies are a widespread condition that affects approximately one out of every five Americans. They occur throughout the year in all types of climates and can be triggered by pollen, mold spores, dust mites, animal dander, food, chemicals, medications and other environmental irritants. With so many possible causes, finding the source of your allergic response…

Your immune system’s primary goal is to keep your body healthy. In the case of food allergies, your immune system mistakes harmless food proteins as a threat and attacks. Large amounts of immunoglobulin E (IgE), an antibody, are produced. IgE causes the release of histamine and other chemicals, which can trigger the symptoms of an…

Hay fever is the common term for allergic rhinitis, a condition in which your nasal passages become swollen and inflamed, producing cold-like symptoms. Unlike a cold, however, hay fever is caused by an allergic response to an indoor or outdoor substance such as pollen, mold, or animal dander. What Are the Symptoms of Hay Fever?…

Allergy symptoms differ depending on the type of allergy. Allergy symptoms typically involve the airways, sinuses, nasal passages and skin. They can range from mild to severe. What Are the Symptoms of Anaphylaxis? Some patients may develop anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal reaction that causes swelling in the throat and breathing difficulties. Symptoms may develop within…

There are countless types of allergies; each type has its own set of symptoms, which can range from mild to life threatening. Seasonal Allergies Allergies fall under two categories: seasonal and perennial. The latter occurs year-round, while seasonal allergies appear during specific times of the year, generally during spring when trees and flowers bloom. They…

What are allergies? Allergies are your immune system’s exaggerated response to a substance that is deemed a threat but is actually harmless. When this substance is inhaled, swallowed or comes into contact with your skin, your immune system defends your body by releasing chemicals that attack the invader. These chemicals cause unpleasant symptoms such as…