Asthma and Allergies

What Are Allergies?

Allergies occur when the body's defenses act too strongly and harmless substances such as dust, mold or pollen are mistakenly identified as dangerous. The immune system then launches complex chemical reactions in order to eliminate the enemy. However, in the process, the allergy-prone individual may experience debilitating symptoms.

What Are The Causes Of Allergic Reactions?

Allergic reactions can be caused by hundreds of everyday substances. Common allergens include plant pollens, molds, household dust (dust mites), animal dander, foods, medicines, feathers and insect stings. While allergic reactions have the capacity to occur at any place in, or on the body, the most common reactions occur in the skin, eyes, nose, sinuses, throat and lungs.

Who Develops Asthma And/Or Allergies?

Asthma and allergies can occur at any age, in anyone, although studies show us that the tendency towards having asthma and allergies is linked to heredity. They tend to develop more commonly in children, and are often mistaken as cold symptoms or just trouble breathing after exercise; however they can also occur in adulthood as well.

In addition to heredity, factors such as stress, smoke, hormones, perfume or other environmental irritants may also play a role in a patient's symptoms.

What is the link between allergies and asthma, and can they occur separately from one another?

Asthma can caused totally by allergies, partly by allergies, or not by allergies at all. Other factors playing a role in the development of asthma include viruses, heredity, occupational exposure, cold air, and changes in humidity.

How are allergies and asthma evaluated and treated?

A complete environmental and medical history is taken, along with an allergy oriented physical exam. Skin testing, when appropriate, is undertaken in order to identify the allergens responsible for the patient's symptoms. This is reviewed and a plan of treatment is taken.

A treatment plan may include medicines, environmental modification, and allergy shots.

Services Offered

• Allergy evaluation and testing (environmental and food)
• Pulmonary function testing
• Laryngoscopy
• Insect sting allergy testing and treatment
• Environmental allergy treatment (in-office allergy shots)