The classic image for allergies is a person sneezing after sniffing a flower or swelling up from a bee sting, but in reality, allergies come in many forms and cause many different reactions.
Because the symptoms of allergies often overlap with those of colds or other ailments, it may be hard to determine if you have an allergy, and what to. At Pineapple Health osteopathic medicine in Phoenix, AZ, allergy specialist Kylee Jackson can give you a diagnosis and help you find the best treatment.
What are the types of allergies?
Inhaled: The most common type of allergy, inhaled allergies include seasonal and pollen allergies, such as ragweed, flowers, and plants. Symptoms include red, itchy eyes, sneezing, and wheezing.
Ingested: These allergies are to consumed products, with peanuts, soy, eggs, and shellfish among the most common food allergies. You may experience swelling in your throat or a skin rash after consuming food to which you have an allergy.
Contact: Contact allergens are reactions to something that touches your skin. Dust, soaps, perfumes, and some plants are common culprits, and signs include swelling, itching, or redness at the place of contact.
How do I know what I’m allergic to?
To pinpoint the cause of your allergies, you may need testing. Your allergy specialist at our Phoenix, AZ, office may use a skin test or blood test. For food allergies, they may advise an elimination diet.
What is the treatment for allergies?
Some allergies may be treatable through avoidance, such as not eating food that gives you an adverse reaction or staying away from certain vegetation. You might find a medication provides adequate relief, especially if your allergies are seasonal. Antihistamines, decongestants, eye drops, and nasal steroid sprays are options your allergy specialist may recommend.
Allergy immunotherapy may help with more severe or year-round allergies. Methods include a pill placed under the tongue or shots. Both contain small amounts of the allergen to help you build a tolerance. These methods may take a few years to reach full effect.
Find relief from your allergies with the help of allergy specialist Kylee Jackson at Pineapple Health. Call our Phoenix, AZ, office at 480-961-2366.