Allergies. Can you or your doctor do anything about them?

It’s a fact that millions of adults and children in the U.S. have allergies.

It’s a fact that millions of adults and children in the U.S. have allergies of one sort or another. Our allergies manifest themselves as asthma, hay fever, hives or digestive upset from a food. And although there’s not a whole lot we can do to totally rid ourselves of them, if we exercise a little common sense, we can usually reduce the reaction to the allergy and make life more enjoyable.

According to Dr. Matt Tucker of Claremore Physicians ImmediateCare, our allergy symptoms range from mild, but irritating, to life threatening. Being exposed to certain allergens (substances that cause an allergic reaction) while the body’s normal defenses are weakened may trigger an allergic response. With a little personal effort, asthma and hay fever symptoms can be controlled.

Simply stated, an allergy is the overreaction of the body’s immune or defense system when exposed to a harmless substance. The body doesn’t see it as harmless and becomes threatened, resulting in an all out attack or allergic response. Some allergies like asthma or hay fever may cause airways to swell and narrow, making breathing difficult. Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, is a seasonal reaction to allergens in the air. Perennial allergic rhinitis may have the same symptoms as hay fever, but may be present anytime due to the presence of allergens such as house dust or animal dander. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis may seem similar to a cold with an itchy, runny nose and watery eyes.

The term allergens is used to describe those substances that are inhaled, eaten, injected, or come into contact with skin and cause allergic reactions. Although nearly anything is a potential allergen to someone, some substances cause a reaction more often than others. Our most common allergens include pollens, molds, house dust, animal dander, foods, medicines, and insect venom, perfumes, and dyes.

Your doctor can diagnose the disease and treatment may include medications that help open the airways and/or antihistamines to relieve itching, sneezing, and runny nose, or decongestants. Allergy shots may also be prescribed to help decrease sensitivity to specific allergens.

If you’re tired of suffering and really want relief, there are some things you can personally do to lessen the effects of your allergies. Pay close attention to what’s causing you to have a reaction and eliminate or avoid contact with the cause. If you’re a mom with a newborn, breastfeed for as long as you can. It actually helps to prevent many allergies in young infants. As you introduce foods to your child, do so gradually, one at a time, and watch for any sign of an allergic response

Keep windows closed, especially if it’s windy and pollen counts are high. Keep your house dry (to reduce mold) and free of dust. If you or a family member is allergic to pets or pollen, keep your pets and plants outside. Don’t smoke in your home or car or near children. And keep air conditioning filters clean.

Dr. Tucker recommends that you consult with your physician before taking over-the-counter medications, especially if you are also on prescription meds.

The success you can expect with controlling your symptoms will depend on how successfully you avoid the allergen. With a combination of prevention and treatment, you could see a marked improvement in reducing allergies. Some of you will eventually outgrow your allergies. Unfortunately, for most of us, allergies continue and even get worse. Especially if we elect to do nothing about them. Be smart. Stay healthy.

For more information, contact

Claremore Physicians Immediate Care

1926 South Highway 66, Claremore, OK 74017

(918) 343-CARE (2273)

www.cpimmediatecare.com