Allergy Specialist

What causes allergies?

Allergies begin when your immune system overreacts to a substance that’s harmless and identifies it as a danger to your body. The immune system then makes antibodies that identify the allergen, and every time you encounter that substance, an allergic reaction begins.

The different types of allergies include:

• Seasonal allergies (pollen, mold, dust mites)
• Contact allergies (poison ivy, nickel, latex)
• Stinging insect allergies (bees, wasps, fire ants)
• Food allergies (peanuts, eggs, milk, fish)
• Drug allergies (penicillin, aspirin, ibuprofen)

This list only contains a few examples of the many possible allergens that can cause each type of allergy.

What allergy symptoms might I develop?

Your symptoms are generally related to the type of allergy. Airborne substances like pollen and mold primarily affect your eyes and nose, while contact allergens result in skin rashes.

As a group, however, allergies cause:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Congested nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Itchy nose, eyes, or mouth
• Skin rash
• Hives
• Swelling
• Nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain (food allergies)

If you have a food, insect venom, latex, or drug allergy, you’re at risk of a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis develops rapidly, causing symptoms such as difficulty breathing, dizziness, a swollen tongue or throat, and loss of consciousness.

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency with the potential to become life-threatening. You should immediately call 911 and give yourself an injection using the epinephrine pen prescribed by Physicians Medical Group of San Jose. 

How are allergies treated?

Your symptoms may indicate allergies, but allergy testing is the only way to diagnose allergies and identify your specific allergens accurately. Physicians Medical Group of San Jose performs skin prick, patch, and blood tests, depending on the type of allergy and your health needs.

The first line of treatment for allergies is to create a plan to avoid your allergens and relieve your symptoms with over-the-counter medications. If your allergy symptoms don’t improve, you may be a good candidate for allergy shots.

Allergy shots inject your allergen on a regular schedule, such as once or twice weekly for 3-6 months. As the dose gradually increases each time, your immune system becomes desensitized and stops reacting to your allergen.

If you suffer from allergies, expert care is available at Physicians Medical Group of San Jose. Call your Physicians Medical Group of San Jose physician today!