Types of Allergies: Symptoms, Reaction, Treatment & Management Q&A

Allergies are classified as either contact, inhalant, or food allergies. Allergy treatments can vary depending on the type of allergy. Treatment options may include medications, lifestyle changes such as avoiding triggers, and immunotherapy through allergy shots or drops. Allergy management is important to reduce your symptoms and maintain a healthy quality of life.

You could be allergic to many things, though some are more common than others. Allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and certain foods are the most common causes of allergies. Less common allergens include insect stings, latex, and certain medications.

Allergy symptoms can vary depending on the type of allergy and the severity of your reaction. Generally, common symptoms include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, skin rash or hives, and itchy throat. Allergy symptoms may also cause difficulty breathing or wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness. Allergies can also cause fatigue or trouble sleeping due to nasal congestion. Some people may experience digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Allergies can have psychological symptoms as well such as anxiety and depression.

Less common symptoms include sinus pressure or pain in the face and ears, headaches, dizziness or light headedness, itching in the nose and eyes, swelling of the eyelids and face, postnasal drip (mucus dripping down your throat), difficulty swallowing food or drinks that contain allergens such as milk or eggs., reduced sense of smell or taste, dark circles under your eyes due to lack of sleep caused by allergies, or chronic sinus congestion.

In some cases, an allergic reaction can be life-threatening known as anaphylaxis which requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; weak pulse; pale skin color; rapid heart rate; clammy skin; dizziness; confusion; loss of consciousness; swollen tongue; constriction of airways; hives over large areas of your body.; severe itching on mouth lips and tongue.; abdominal cramps; nausea; diarrhea; sudden drop in blood pressure; facial flushing. If you experience any severe allergic reactions seek medical help right away! It’s important to take allergies seriously to prevent dangerous reactions from occurring.

If you are experiencing allergy symptoms, it is important to see an Allergy & Asthma specialist. Our specialists will take a full medical history and perform diagnostic tests including skin or blood tests. Once your diagnosis is confirmed, we can put together a tailored treatment plan for your specific needs.

There are four stages of an allergic reaction. The first stage is the Allergen Exposure when a person comes in contact with an allergen they are allergic to. This can occur through inhalation or ingestion of the allergen. The second stage is Allergic Sensitization where the immune system recognizes the allergen and responds with an inflammatory response. In the third stage, Allergic Reactions, symptoms such as skin rashes, respiratory issues, and digestive problems begin to appear. Finally, in Allergy Management, patients receive treatments to help control their allergy symptoms and reduce their reactions.

At Allergy & Asthma Center, our specialists are here to help you manage your allergies. We provide comprehensive treatments and support to ensure you can live comfortably with your allergies. Our Allergy & Asthma specialists will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan and provide guidance on lifestyle changes that can help reduce your reactions.

Allergic reactions are numerous and diverse, and the appropriate treatments are determined by their symptoms. So, if you’re living in the Metro Atlanta Area and suffering from Allergies, visit Allergy & Asthma Center today! Our experienced Allergy & Asthma specialists will provide effective treatments and management of your allergy symptoms. Contact us today or book an appointment online for more information. We serve patients from Lawrenceville GA, Atlanta GA, Conyers GA, Suwanee GA, Duluth GA, Grayson GA, Decatur GA, Brookhaven GA, Lithonia GA, and Covington GA. We look forward to helping you find relief from your allergies!