Allergies are a prevalent disease that affects over 50 million people in the United States. If they are not treated, allergies can make it difficult to exercise, work, or spend time outside. Dr. Nass and his colleagues at the office of Richard L. Nass, M.D., F.A.C.S. focus on the diagnosis and treatment of allergies in East Hampton, New York, and Midtown East, Manhattan. Schedule an initial consultation with East Hampton allergies specialist, Dr. Nass, today through mobile or request online.
What Exactly Are Allergies?
Allergies develop whenever your immune system responds abnormally to a harmless object such as pollen, pet hair, or dirt. When your immune system recognizes a thing as potentially hazardous, it creates antibodies, which are proteins that combat invaders such as fungus, viruses, or bacteria.
An allergic reaction is triggered by an upsurge in antibodies, which causes inflammation in numerous body systems such as your digestive tract and sinuses. This inflammation affects everybody differently. Allergies might be a mere irritation for some people, but they can lead to major difficulties for others.
What Are Some Of The Signs And Symptoms Of Allergies?
Allergies can cause the following symptoms:
· Wheezing
· Sneezing
· Hives
· Itchy eyes
· A runny or stuffy nose
· Stomach ache
· Facial swelling
If you suffer from anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic response), you may have serious breathing difficulties, loss of consciousness, or lightheadedness.
When Should You Make An Appointment With An Otolaryngologist To Discuss Your Allergies?
Mild and moderate allergies frequently respond to conservative, at-home treatments such as avoiding certain allergens and using over-the-counter medications. If your symptoms continue, intensify, or affect your everyday life, schedule a meeting with Dr. Nass immediately.
What Methods Are Used To Identify Allergies?
Dr. Nass performs a physical exam and questions regarding your allergy symptoms, such as when they began, how serious they are, and whether particular activities, such as being outside, aggravate them.
Dr. Nass then orders a series of tests, including:
- Prick Test On The Skin
Dr. Nass uses a skin prick test to subject you to trace levels of proteins identified in allergies. If your skin swells or becomes red, it signifies you are allergic to that drug.
- Specific IgE Blood Test
A particular IgE test looks for antibodies to immunoglobulin E (IgE), which are the proteins that trigger allergic responses. The more your IgE levels, the more probable you are to have allergy symptoms.
What Is The Treatment For Allergies?
Allergy treatment is determined by your unique triggers, the intensity of your symptoms, and the impact they have on your everyday life. Dr. Nass and his staff typically advocate for conservative means of care, such as:
· Avoiding allergens
· Immunotherapy
· Prescription allergy medications
· Over-the-counter allergy medicine
If you have a serious allergy to a specific drug, Dr. Nass may also recommend emergency epinephrine. In the case of anaphylaxis, epinephrine is a life-saving drug.
An allergic response, particularly anaphylaxis, can be fatal if not recognized and treated quickly enough. Arrange a meeting with Richard L. Nass, M.D. by contacting the nearest office or booking online to find out more about allergy therapy.
