Allergies, or allergic diseases, refer to the immune system’s hypersensitivity to something in one’s environment. Some allergies include hay fever, food allergies, dermatitis, allergic asthma and anaphylaxis. Allergy symptoms include itchy eyes, swelling, rash, runny or stuffy nose, shortness of breath and itchy or plugged ears. Common allergens are pollens, grasses, molds, dust mites and pets. Dr. Lollar has completed a fellowship in rhinology and is a board-certified allergist.
Allergy Symptoms
Skin allergies Skin allergies commonly present as bumps, redness, dryness and itchiness. Skin allergies can also overlap with food allergies as some people have contact allergies to certain foods. Common skin allergies include atopic dermatitis, which is a common form of eczema; hives, which can be caused by an allergen or an infection; contact dermatitis,…
Allergy Drops
Allergy drops, also known as sublingual immunotherapy, are overall safer than allergy shots, called subcutaneous immunotherapy, because they aren’t administered with a needle. The principle of allergy drops is the same as allergy shots. It is a long-term treatment that decreases symptoms by increasing the body’s immunity. The patient drips liquid that contains allergens under…
Non-Pharmacologic Therapy
The best way to treat allergy symptoms is to completely avoid allergens. Although this may be impossible, certain behaviors, called non-pharmacologic therapy, can help minimize them. Here are a few simple things you can do to reduce the presence of allergens in your home: o Encase your mattress and pillows in dust mite-proof cases. Wash…