Allergies Specialist

Why do I have allergies?

When your immune system overreacts to something that doesn’t bother other people, you have an allergy. This could be pollen, mold, pet dander, insects, medicines, or certain foods. Allergies are often genetic, but the exact reason some people’s immune systems react when others don’t is not clearly understood.

The symptoms you experience, such as sneezing, rashes, or a runny nose, result from inflammation in your immune system. Severe allergic reactions can prompt asthma symptoms or a life-threatening anaphylaxis.

How common are allergies?

Allergies are one of the most common medical conditions diagnosed in the United States. Some of the most common allergies are:

• Nasal allergies: Approximately 20% of people experience nasal allergies.
• Asthma triggered allergies: 8%-10% have asthma triggered by allergies.
• Food allergies: 3%-6% of children affected and 1%-2% of adults.

Who is likely to suffer from allergies?

Anyone can develop an allergy at any age. Food allergies often affect young children, but they may be outgrown. Allergies to compounds in the environment can come on at any time.

What are the symptoms of allergies?

You or your child may experience allergic reactions in the eyes, lungs, nose, skin, or gastrointestinal tract.

Hayfever
Hayfever is the most common allergic condition, with symptoms including, sneezing, an itchy nose, scratchy throat, and post-nasal drip.

Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is an allergy of the eyes, that manifests as redness, tearing, and itching.

Atopic dermatitis
This affects the skin and you experience a rash or dry and itchy skin.

Gastrointestinal
Gastrointestinal allergies can also appear as a rash or stomach discomfort.

In extreme allergic reactions that cause anaphylaxis, you’ll probably experience swelling of your tongue and throat, hives, possible nausea and vomiting, and nasal congestion. You may also pass out due to shock or low blood pressure.

How do the doctors at DRS Medical Associates treat allergies?

Identifying your triggers so you can avoid an allergic reaction is important.

If avoidance is impossible, such as with environmental pollen, medications can help.

If allergies bring on symptoms of asthma, you may benefit from an inhaler.

When allergies have to possibility of a life-threatening reaction, Dr. Sharma and Dr. Santos may direct you to carry an epinephrine injection (Epipen) at all times.