Allergies

What are allergies?

Allergies occur when a typically harmless substance, such as pet dander, triggers a reaction in your immune system. Substances that trigger an allergic reaction are called allergens.

Allergies can cause a wide variety of symptoms, like inflammation in your lungs, throat, or sinuses. Allergies may trigger asthma symptoms, including difficulty breathing. Some people may be at risk of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that can cause you to lose consciousness and go into shock. 

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that may cause lightheadedness, severe shortness of breath, and a rapid or weak pulse. 

What types of allergies are there?

The team at Texas Multi-Specialty Group provides evidence-based care for all types of allergies, including:

Food allergies

Symptoms of a food allergy can appear after coming into contact with even a small amount of food. Common foods that cause allergies include peanuts, tree nuts, soy, and fish. Food allergies may cause swelling in the lips, tongue, or throat and are one of the most common causes of anaphylaxis. 

Sinus allergies

People who have allergies or asthma are at higher risk for chronic sinus infections, also known as chronic sinusitis. Sinus infections cause nasal congestion, facial pressure or pain, and a thick nasal discharge. Chronic sinus infections may persist for 12 weeks or longer. 

Nasal allergies

Also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, nasal allergies are among the most common types. Symptoms include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, and itchy or watery eyes. 

Drug allergies

Allergies to drugs and medications can also cause anaphylaxis. Less severe symptoms include a rash, hives, or facial swelling. Your risk of developing a drug allergy is higher if you take the medication frequently or if you need to inject it or rub it on your skin. 

Skin allergies

Contact allergies can cause a variety of skin conditions, including eczema, hives, and contact dermatitis. Skin allergies may involve symptoms like a rash, redness, itchiness, and blisters.

Insect sting allergies

Insect sting allergies are allergies to the venom of stinging insects, including yellow jackets, wasps, hornets, and bees. These allergies may cause hives, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or anaphylaxis.

Mold allergies

If you are allergic to mold, your immune system is overly-sensitive to specific mold spores and reacts with symptoms including sneezing, itching, runny nose, congestion and dry, scaling skin.

How do I know if my symptoms are due to allergies?

If you’re not sure whether your symptoms are the result of allergies, the team at Texas Multi-Specialty Group can help. They thoroughly evaluate your condition and may perform allergy testing to determine the specific types of allergies you have. Then, they create an individualized treatment plan that may include allergy shots. 

For advanced care of all types of allergies, call Texas Multi-Specialty Group, or book an appointment online today.