Common Allergy Symptoms and Treatment Options

Allergies affect a huge percentage of adults and children in the United States. They are considered the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in this country. The symptoms can lead to productivity loss and extended sick time taken from work or school.

If you struggle from an allergy, you may find symptoms getting in the way of your daily schedule. This causes you to miss doing things you enjoy. Fear not! There is some good news. Many options are now available for you and with your doctor’s help; your life can become more symptom-free.

Allergies occur when the body’s immune system perceives a harmless substance as one that is harmful. When the body contacts with this substance, it will produce a large number of immunoglobulin E. These antibodies make the body release chemicals such as histamine that result in itching, swelling, and tightening of airways. Symptoms that you encounter due to this biological process can include: watery eyes, runny nose, hives, and coughing. In severe cases, the symptoms can produce difficulty breathing and dizziness. In some cases, if the symptoms can be life-threatening and this rare reaction is called anaphylaxis, which requires immediate emergency medical care.

There are various items that a person can have an allergic reaction to. Hay fever is caused by a reaction to pollen, and can be either seasonal or year-round. This will depend on what you are allergic to. Another common source is dust mites, which live in household dust and other fibers in common household objects. Mold, latex, and food are some other sources of allergies. Most people suffer form one or two allergens, while yet others have many symptoms from a number of culprits.

An individual has a greater chance of having an allergy, if either parent or both suffered from allergies. If you have another chronic condition such as eczema or asthma, the greater your chances. When your immune system is weakened you also stand a greater chance of develop an allergy.

Although many complain of allergies, there are various numbers of treatments readily available. Among the treatments available to sufferers, antihistamines, decongestants, or nasal sprays may be just the thing to relieve your symptoms. However, sometimes, these are not quite the thing you may need. Oftentimes, you may need something stronger to help you. Your doctor may have to place you on a regime of immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots. With this treatment, you may experience more symptom-free days. Speak to your doctor about the course of treatment right for you.

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