Allergies can affect you in many ways and often do not stop at simple sneezing or itchy eyes. In fact, an allergic reaction can be a life-threatening issue, making allergy testing and immunotherapy two key tools in ensuring that your allergies remain under control. Find out more about allergy testing and immunotherapy with Dr. Kevin Chan at Pineapple Health in Phoenix, AZ.
What causes an allergic reaction?
An allergic reaction occurs when your immune system recognizes a normal substance as a problem and mistakenly attacks it. Your immune system produces antibodies, which trigger histamine production and causes allergy symptoms. Allergens can come into contact with your immune system in various areas of the body such as the eyes, nose, mouth, or stomach. This is the reason you may experience a stomachache due to a food allergy or itchy eyes due to a pollen allergy.
What can cause an allergic reaction?
Some common allergens which cause reactions include:
- animal dander
- mold
- pollen
- foods (often nuts, shellfish, eggs, milk, or wheat)
- certain plants or trees
- latex
- dust
- certain medications
- bee stings
The antibodies the immune system produces will only fight off certain allergens. This means that some people may be allergic to cats but not dogs or peanuts but not pine nuts.
Immunotherapy in Phoenix, AZ
Often referred to as allergy shots, immunotherapy uses the same principals as a vaccine. Your doctor injects tiny, controlled amounts of an allergen into your body. The amount of the allergen injected increases with each shot. This allows the body to slowly build an immunity to the allergen.
If you have allergies, especially if they do not react to normal over-the-counter antihistamines, you may benefit from immunotherapy. Dr. Chan’s dedication to your overall health and wellness goes unmatched. Call (480) 961-2366 to schedule your allergy test or immunotherapy session with Dr. Kevin Chan at Pineapple Health in Phoenix, AZ today!