Allergies are an overreaction of the immune system caused by something as harmless as plant pollen, dust, molds, insect bites and certain foods. When these items cause your body to react, we refer to them as allergens.
Causes & Symptoms
Common reactions to allergens can include sneezing, itchy eyes, itchy mouth, or red, watery and swollen eyes. Some symptoms can be severe causing anaphylaxis, which is swelling of the airways. This type of reaction is a life-threatening medical emergency and can be deadly.
While some allergies are caused by specific foods (food allergies), others are caused by materials in the environment, such as perfumes and cleaning products. Some allergies are seasonal and are often referred to as “hay fever”. These are allergy symptoms that arise during certain times of the year. They are typically caused by outdoor molds releasing their spores, and grasses, trees, and weeds releasing pollen into the air.
How We Can Help
At the Men’s Vitality Center, our doctors will evaluate your allergy symptoms to make an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan for you. An allergy treatment plan can include avoidance strategies, at home solutions, over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine and decongestant medications, prescription strength medication and steroid treatments or other medical interventions. Our goal is to help you find relief and manage your allergy symptoms. You can make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Tempe or Glendale with one of our allergy treatment specialists. Our doctors look forward to meeting you!
Common Questions About Allergies
Oral antihistamines can relieve symptoms that include coughing, sneezing, itching, watery eyes and runny nose, while decongestants and nasal sprays can help relieve congestion and irritation of the nasal passages. Most of these are available over-the-counter, but your doctor can prescribe stronger versions of these medications for severe allergies. Prescription steroid medications and epinephrine are able to quickly treat allergic reactions that would otherwise result in hives, low blood pressure, wheezing and severe skin itching.
Often the best treatment for allergies is avoiding the allergen altogether. When that is not possible, antihistamines, decongestants and steroid treatments are options that provide relief and management of allergy symptoms. When OTC options are not effective, the doctor can prescribe prescription strength allergy medications. What helps relieve allergies fast?
What is the best treatment for allergies?
