Tag Archives: Allergy Clinic

What Causes Allergies to Develop?

If you recently visited an allergy clinic and were told that you are suffering from an allergy, you must wonder what causes allergies to develop, right?

Allergies come about when the body reacts to allergens. When the body comes into contact with the allergens, it produces special antibodies capable of recognizing the same allergic substances when the body comes into contact with it in the future.

In the event you come into contact with the allergen again, the body responds to the substance by causing a series of reactions that often involve blood vessel dilation, tissue destruction, and production of several inflammatory substances, including histamine.

Histamine is responsible for most classic allergy symptoms such as sneezing, sinus congestion, shortness of breath, watery eyes, headaches, nasal congestion, and hives.

Which are the common allergy triggers?

Although several allergens can bring about allergies, there are some that are more common than others. The common ones include:

Pollen

Pollen is the major cause of seasonal allergies. Different pollen from different plants cause allergies at different times of the year. For example, ragweed is responsible for allergic rhinitis that begins in late August and continues until the first frost.

Pollen from grasses such as red top, Bermuda, bluegrass, timothy, orchard, and others cause springtime allergies while pollen from trees such as birch, beech, oak, ash, sycamore, alder, and others bring about early springtime hay fever.

Mold spores

You can come across mold any time of the year, whether you spend most of the time indoors or outdoors. Common causes of outdoor mold are dead leaves and farm areas, while old books, bathrooms, and other damp areas are the leading causes of indoor mold.

Household allergens

Did you know your home has plenty of allergies that can worsen your allergies? The most common allergens are pet dander, dust, foods, and chemicals. These allergens often worsen the situation in winter when you keep the house closed most of the time. The situation is even worse if your house has poor ventilation.

How do you manage allergies?

Unless in severe cases, allergies are rarely life-threatening, but they can impact your life by decreasing your productivity, reducing your concentration in school, and due to the symptoms, you have a negative outlook on life. Due to this, you should move with haste and manage the condition before it brings your life to a halt.

There are plenty of ways you can control the condition, including:

Nasal sprays: These are medications that reduce the swelling in your nose, and from their name, you spray them into your nose. While they are great, they can be stuffy, runny, and itchy to the nose, so use them with caution.

Inhalers: You inhale these into your lungs to open the airways. There are primarily two types of inhalers that you can take: daily use and rescue inhalers. From their name, you take the daily inhalers during the allergy season to reduce the symptoms and the rescue inhalers when you are having an attack.

Prescription antihistamines: Although most of the antihistamines are now over the counter, you can still visit your allergy doctor Manassas VA, and he prescribes the antihistamines he deems right for your condition.

Allergy injections: You can still visit a clinic and have a series of injections meant to desensitize your immune system to the allergens that trigger the symptoms.

Immunotherapy: Here, you try to retrain the immune system to recognize the allergen and safe, and as a result, it doesn’t react to them. Even if the symptoms don’t go away completely, immunotherapy significantly reduces its frequency and severity.

When to See a Doctor for Allergies

Most allergies go away on their own or after using a few over-the-counter medications. But a few of the conditions worsen, and they can turn fatal if you don’t see an allergy doctor soon enough. Wondering when to see a doctor for allergies? Here are some of the situations when you should do it:

When you aren’t sure whether you have a cold or allergies

Colds and allergies (especially allergic rhinitis) can be easily confused for each other as they feature running noses and sneezing. If you aren’t sure of what you are suffering from, visit a doctor who will help you determine the condition.

If suffering from allergies, the doctor will undertake a battery of tests to determine the triggers and what you can do to bring the condition to a stop.

To help you tell the difference between allergies and cold, you should look at the symptoms. If you have itching eyes or nose, puffy throat, eyes or eyelids, you are most likely suffering from allergies, but if you have a nagging cough, a low-grade fever, or simply feeling sick and rundown, then you are most likely having a cold.

Either way, don’t go at it blindly and start taking medications. See a doctor to be sure.

The allergy symptoms are getting in the way.

Besides the stuffy nose and other symptoms, allergies can also lead to other issues such as headaches, ear infections, and sinus infections. If these symptoms are coming in the way and making it hard for you to work, sleep, and enjoy the outdoors, you need to take action and see a doctor.

The doctor will help you figure out what you are allergic to and manage the symptoms effectively to get back your life.

When you have tried controlling the condition without success

A tell-tale sign you are suffering from allergies and not a cold is feeling better after 4-5 days. If it’s over a week and the symptoms aren’t getting better or going away, it’s time to see a doctor.

The doctor will help you find a different and better medicine for your condition. For example, if you were using a steroid, he would find an antihistamine to address the symptoms better. The doctor can even analyze the situation and prescribe stronger doses of the same drug you were using.

You have other underlying medical conditions.

Are you suffering from health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, enlarged prostate, or kidney disease? Sometimes over-the-counter medications might not work on the allergies. In other cases, the medications worsen the situation.

By seeing a doctor, you ensure you aren’t putting your life on the line by continuing to take the wrong medications.

The doctor will go through your history and, after testing you, prescribe the best drugs to go for.

What will the doctor do?

When you visit a doctor, there are plenty of things he can do. Some of these things include:

Confirm you are suffering from allergies

You might be experiencing allergy-like symptoms, but it’s only a certified allergist that can confirm that you truly suffer from allergies.

Find your triggers

Allergies can be triggered by plenty of things such as dust, dander, and many others. When you visit an allergy clinic Germantown MD, the doctor will help you find out the allergy triggers. The doctor will also advise you on ways to avoid the triggers.

Come up with a treatment plan.

After the tests, the doctor will help you come up with a treatment plan. The plan includes the type of medicine you should take, when to take it, the things to avoid due to the allergies, and what to do if the situation worsens.

Managing Asthma During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is one of life’s greatest miracles. Going through the entire process of pregnancy can be full of ups and downs. But it will surely be worth it when you see your bundle of joy for the first time after nine months. Expect to feel all kinds of emotions while tending to your child – the good, the bad, and the ugly. Unfortunately, the “ugly” part may include other things, like having to undergo asthma treatments due to an asthma attack.

Asthma is a common condition that affects people all over the world. It can make your situation more complicated if you are pregnant. For one, asthma can compromise your unborn baby’s safety if not managed properly. To prevent future complications, you should seek an asthma doctor immediately for the sake of you both.

What triggers asthma in pregnancy?

Asthma triggers during pregnancy are mostly similar to the usual asthma symptoms. However, sensitivity to the symptoms may be increased due to hormonal changes while pregnant. For starters, common asthma triggers may include:

Respiratory illnesses including viral and bacterial infections
Allergic rhinitis
GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease)
Smoke (ex. cigarette smoke, smoke produced by vehicles, wood, and cooking, etc.)
Perfumes and sprays
Allergies (food, chemicals, cosmetics, pet dander, dust, etc.)
Emotional triggers (hormonal changes, stressful environment, etc.)

For allergy triggers, it is best to consult an allergy specialist doctor for proper medications suitable for your pregnancy.

How asthma can affect your unborn baby

Having asthma can affect a person’s quality of life, and can make your pregnancy complicated. The unborn baby inside your tummy needs enough oxygen to live. However, having an asthma attack can affect the amount of oxygen entering your body which can compromise your baby’s life.

You may have already been given medications by an allergist to help manage your asthma. However, you may have also considered stopping taking asthma medications when you got pregnant. This is understandable, as taking any medications may cause complications on your pregnancy.

For one, uncontrolled asthma may cause premature birth. You may also experience health complications such as hypertension or preeclampsia. In worst cases, your unborn baby may die due to lack of oxygen because of a severe asthma attack. If you have asthma prior to your pregnancy, it is best to consult an allergy physician to help manage the condition.

How to manage asthma attacks during pregnancy

Here are some tips to help you manage asthma attacks throughout your pregnancy:

Let your doctor know you have asthma.

It is said that asthma symptoms may become worse around six to eight months of pregnancy. Medications taken during or after birth are possible, but can cause discomfort and may even worsen the condition.

To prevent further complications, it is important to inform an allergist doctor about your asthma. Your doctor will help you create a plan and managing your asthma symptoms and ensure smooth and uncomplicated delivery.

Watch out for asthma symptoms.

Asthma is generally manageable even during pregnancy. Good asthma control can also ensure a normal and healthy pregnancy and delivery. Unless advised against by an allergy physician, you can still continue taking asthma medications while you’re pregnant.

Since asthma is supposed to be manageable, one of the things you should do is to watch out for its symptoms. Your symptoms may be worse than your pre-pregnancy days, so take note of that. If you are already experiencing breathing difficulties due to your asthma, head to the nearest clinic or hospital immediately. Medical personnel will conduct first aid treatment to ensure you and your unborn child are both safe.

Avoid the triggers as much as possible.

If you don’t want to experience asthma during pregnancy, avoid the triggers. At the end of the day, you and your baby’s safety should matter most. Among things you can skip to prevent asthma triggers include:

Quitting smoking or avoiding secondhand smoke
Avoid overeating and lying down after mealtime (if you have GERD)
Avoid interacting with people with infections (ex. colds and flu). Better yet, wear a protective mask when dealing with sick people
Avoid other allergy triggers (ex. foods, dust, pet dander, sprays, and perfumes)

Finding the best asthma doctors near you

Consult the best allergist in Manassas VA to help you manage asthma while you’re pregnant. Some doctors would recommend taking flu and allergy shots to prevent severe asthma attacks during the duration of your pregnancy. These medications are considered safe, but make sure to seek medical advice first before taking these.

Managing Allergy-Induced Asthma

Asthma and allergies are only some of the most common health problems. In the US alone, it is said that asthma, a type of respiratory condition, affects one out of 13 people according to a Centers for Disease Control (CDC) report. Asthma can affect one’s quality of life, so going to the nearest allergy physician near you can help manage your condition.

But you may ask: “Why should I go to an allergy clinic for my asthma condition?” As you may don’t know yet, asthma and allergies are often connected and can even occur simultaneously. This is because most asthma symptoms are similar to those of allergies. This condition is called allergy-induced asthma.

How allergies are related to asthma

Allergies can be caused by several triggers such as food, dust mites, pet dander, and pollen among a few. There are other triggers such as stress, exercise, and certain infections. These triggers can also cause asthma attacks which can be uncomfortable nonetheless.

People with a history of allergy have a higher risk of having allergic asthma. While some of these triggers can cause allergic reactions such as runny nose and skin breakout, others experience coughing and frequent sneezing.

In worse cases, affected individuals may experience shortness of breath and difficulty in breathing. When these symptoms show up, it is best to consult an allergist to help you manage the condition.

Treating asthma and allergies

There are treatments meant to manage allergy or asthma symptoms. On the other hand, there are also those that can treat both conditions. Among these include the following:

Allergy shots

Also known as immunotherapy, it can help treat asthma symptoms by reducing your body’s reactions to allergic triggers. Allergy shots are applied through scheduled injections of small amounts of allergens which cause allergic reactions.

The entire treatment process will be done in a course of about three to five years. Doing so can help build tolerance from the said allergens. In effect, symptoms can eventually decrease and more manageable than before. The procedure should only be done by an allergy specialist doctor.

Montelukast

Also called Singulair or Leukotriene modifier, this comes in a pill form and is usually taken daily. This medication promises to provide relief from asthma and allergy symptoms. Likewise, it helps manage chemicals that are released in case of allergic reactions.

On the downside, it is said that montelukast causes suicidal and other psychological tendencies. Consult an asthma doctor first before taking this medication. If you are already taking this, seek medical help immediately if you notice the aforementioned symptoms.

Anti-immunoglobulin E immunotherapy

This type of allergy treatment aims to control and manage the chemicals that trigger allergic reactions. One of the most common anti-immunoglobulin E treatments is Xolair. This therapy is only used for patients with up to severe asthma symptoms.

Other treatments for allergy-induced asthma include:

Bronchodilators – helps you breathe easier
Anti-inflammatory medications – helps reduce swelling (ex. skin rashes due to allergic reactions) as well as relieve asthma symptoms
Other medications that block the chemicals causing the allergic reactions

Managing allergies and asthma symptoms

Asthma and allergies can greatly affect one’s quality of life. That is why it is important to identify what your triggers are so you can properly manage your condition. But sometimes, symptoms may change without warning. Nonetheless, you can still manage your allergy and asthma – along with medical help, of course.

First of all, it is important to know what triggers your allergic reactions so you can avoid it beforehand. For example, it may be wise not to have pets at home if you are allergic to pet dander. If you cannot imagine not having a pet, you can opt for “hypoallergenic” pets. However, it is still best to consult an allergy specialist near you if you want to have a pet at home.

People with asthma may have multiple triggers, which is why it is important to identify those symptoms as well. That way, you can easily manage them and be provided the right treatments for your condition. The adage, “Prevention is better than cure”, says true about this kind of situation.

You can still live a normal life despite having allergies

Having allergies and asthma can affect one’s daily life. That is why you should monitor your symptoms and consult the best allergist in Germantown MD. Contact one and avail of a free consultation today.

Eczema: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Eczema is a skin condition that affects millions of Americans in the US, both children and adults. It is a condition wherein there is a presence of itchy and rough patches on your skin. Blisters may also occur, making it more uncomfortable for those affected by the condition. If you have eczema, it is best to consult an allergist near you.

Brief facts about eczema

Eczema is an uncomfortable medical condition that can affect your quality of life. It can leave unpleasant scars and marks on your skin. As a result, it can cause low self-esteem and some may end up wearing anything that won’t expose their skin. People with eczema should consult an allergy doctor to help them manage their condition.

This skin condition can be due to an allergic reaction to certain triggers such as pollen, nuts, dairy, eggs, or shellfish among a few. The severity of the reaction varies from person to person. Some may experience mild itching that goes away with prescribed medicines. Meanwhile, some may experience severe symptoms that can even be life-threatening if not treated immediately.

Unfortunately, eczema is an incurable condition. On a positive note, it is not contagious and should not be a reason to discriminate the person who has it. There is no definite cure for eczema, but symptoms can be managed. An allergist doctor will prescribe the right medications to heal damaged skin and provide relief from the symptoms.

Types of eczema

There are different types of eczema, of which the most popular is atopic dermatitis. It is said that almost 20 million US adults suffer from atopic dermatitis. One major signs of atopic dermatitis are the presence of an itchy, red rash that appears on the arms, legs, or cheeks. Other types of eczema include:

Seborrheic dermatitis – occurrence of yellowish white flaky patches and commonly affects the skin and scalp
Contact dermatitis – a skin reaction that is due to accidentally touching an allergen (ex. Certain plants like poison ivy)
Stasis dermatitis – refers to leg swelling and skin irritation due to poor circulation
Dyshidrotic eczema – affects both hands and feet and cause itchy, red blisters and also caused by allergen exposure

Symptoms and treatment

Eczema symptoms may vary from person to person. Likewise, it may also be different depending on the person’s age. Eczema can occur to anyone – from infants to the elderly. Most people have this condition since childhood and then carried into adulthood.

If you have the below symptoms, you should go to an allergy clinic so you can get the right treatment for your condition. Common symptoms of eczema include:

Presence of rashes on cheeks, scalp, or creases on knees or elbows
Rashes may also appear on the neck, ankles, legs, buttocks or wrists
Rashes that leak fluid and cause intense itchiness
Cause sleep disturbance and may worsen when rubbed or scratched
Presence of scaly rashes in adults

As mentioned, there is no definite cure for eczema. However, there are several medications that help manage and alleviate the symptoms. These medications that will be prescribed by an allergy physician should also help heal eczema marks. He or she will also suggest a treatment plan depending on the person’s age, the severity of symptoms, and overall health condition.

Other ways to manage eczema symptoms include the following:

Use skin moisturizers. However, make sure to check the ingredients to ensure it won’t do harm on your skin. Preferably use ones that are paraben-free or similar to that.
Wear light clothing (ex. Cotton) to let your skin breathe.
Use scent-free soap or cleanser on your skin. This also applies to lotions and moisturizers.
Avoid rubbing dry your skin after taking a bath. Instead, gently pat your skin dry to avoid irritation.
Change into dry clothes after getting all sweaty. Better yet, take a shower after an intense workout or any physical activity.
Be aware of your triggers and avoid them as much as possible.
Use doctor-prescribed medications including ointments, creams, and antihistamine tablets.

Take care of your skin and your health

Eczema can affect anyone. Symptoms may appear from infancy and carry them over into adulthood. Millions of people all over the world are affected by this condition. It can also affect their daily lives and even their self-esteem.

While it has no definite cure, it can be managed. You should consult the best allergist to help you manage the symptoms. If you have the condition, don’t delay – visit an allergy clinic in Manassas MD today.

What You Need to Know About Dairy Allergy

Most people would have already consumed dairy products since we were kids. As a child, our parents prepared us fresh milk for breakfast and before bedtime. Meanwhile, some people like their hamburgers and pizzas cheesy enough you cannot see the meat anymore. In other words, we have basically lived with dairy nourishing our bodies almost every day.

But for some people, consuming milk and other dairy products can be a curse. In fact, it can even be potentially life-threatening to them. This condition may even send you to an allergy clinic, or the emergency room in worse cases if the symptoms become worse. This is most likely due to dairy allergies and should be treated by an allergist.

Is it the same as lactose intolerance?

On one hand, dairy allergies affect a person’s immune system. It occurs when the body reacts to the protein components of dairy products including milk. It then triggers allergic reactions that can be potentially dangerous for some people. Allergic reactions can range from mild rashes to as severe as breathing difficulties.

On the other hand, lactose intolerance affects the digestive system. Those who have lactose intolerance do not have the ability to digest lactose, a component present in dairy products such as milk and cheese. Lactase deficiency is also usually the cause of lactose intolerance. Lactase is a type of enzyme that is produced in the small intestine.

Lactase turns into galactose and glucose and then absorbed into our bloodstream. In lactose intolerance, however, lactose does not get absorbed and instead moves to the colon, interacts with bacteria, and then cause lactose intolerance. If you suspect of having lactose intolerance, you should consult an allergy specialist doctor for proper treatment.

Symptoms and risk factors

Symptoms of both dairy allergies and lactose intolerance may show up early in childhood, but some may experience it later on in adulthood. You should consult an allergy physician if you experience any adverse reactions upon consumption of dairy products.

Lactose intolerance and dairy allergy symptoms may vary from mild to severe. It usually depends on how much your body can tolerate lactose. Symptoms may also show up around 30 minutes to a few hours after consuming dairy products. However, some symptoms of dairy allergy and lactose intolerance may be the same with each other.

Among these include vomiting and nausea, abdominal cramps, bloating, gas, and diarrhea. However, dairy allergy can also cause allergic reactions in a person’s skin and respiratory system which can be potentially fatal at this point. These symptoms include:

Hives
Facial or lip swelling
Wheezing
Rashes
Difficulty in swallowing and breathing
Bloody stools (in infants)
Anaphylaxis (in worst cases)

You are more likely to have a dairy allergy if you have skin conditions such as eczema. Also, your genes may also dictate your risk of having this condition. For example, one of your parents may also have foods allergies or dairy allergies as well. Children as young as two are also most likely to have a dairy allergy.

Diagnosis and treatment

There are ways that an allergy doctor can determine whether you have lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. An allergist doctor would usually recommend patients to undergo allergy testing and other tests that will confirm your condition.

For dairy allergies, you may need to undergo a skin prick test. It involves putting a small drop of liquid that contains dairy allergen on your skin. It will result in a red, itchy bump if you have dairy allergies. An allergist specialist may also require taking a blood test or an oral test to confirm your condition.

For lactose intolerance, you may undergo either a hydrogen breath test, lactose tolerance tests. For babies and small children, a stool acidity test may be recommended by a doctor.

Managing dairy allergy

To prevent allergic reactions due to dairy products, you should not consume any dairy products in the first place. It is also important to check the food packaging to see whether it contains even just small traces of milk or dairy content. You may even find dairy content in the least expected foods such as canned tuna and energy drinks, so you should be careful as well.

There are also foods that contain calcium which can be a great and safe alternative for milk as your source of calcium. However, make sure you also don’t have allergies with these foods. Among these include:

Broccoli, collards, kale
Sardines, salmon, and other canned fish with bones
Juice and cereals with a calcium content
Tofu and other soy-based products
Almonds

Dairy allergy is real, and those who have it should be careful when consuming foods. If you suspect of having dairy allergies, consult an allergy physician in Germantown MD.

What You Need to Know About Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis or EoE is a condition that causes the esophagus to swell. The esophagus is a tube-like internal part of the body that transports food that you eat into the stomach. EoE causes discomfort or even pain and difficulty in swallowing the food you eat due to the inflammation.

you can also be triggered by mold, pollen, or food allergens. Although, there is no exact proof and research about these claims. Nonetheless, it would be a good idea to consult an allergy physician for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What you need to know about you

Eosinophilic esophagitis or EoE is a long-term disease that affects the immune system. It involves the eosinophil, a type of white blood cell, which builds up in the esophageal lining. Often, this buildup is caused by food allergens. The said buildup leads to the inflammation of the esophageal tissue, making swallowing difficult and even painful.

If you experience this, do not delay as it can be potentially life-threatening. Visit an allergy clinic and have yourself treated by a trusted allergist doctor. EoE is considered one of the major causes of gastrointestinal illnesses. Common symptoms of EoE include the following:

Dysphagia (Difficulty in swallowing)
Chest pain
Regurgitation
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Delayed growth and weight loss (in children)

This means eosinophilic esophagitis can be contracted by both children and adults. Men are more at risk of having this condition than women. Likewise, those who have family members who also suffer from allergies are also at risk of having EoE.

EoE in children vs. adults

As mentioned, eosinophilic esophagitis can occur both in children and adults. However, those who have a history of food allergies, eczema, and asthma are at higher risk of having EoE. Unfortunately, this condition might be challenging to detect as symptoms can differ depending on age and are often mistaken for other health issues.

For example, infants and toddlers suffering suspected of having EoE would not eat due to difficulty in swallowing. Some kids would also experience abdominal pain, vomiting, and growth delays in the worst cases. EoE patients point out certain food triggers that are causing the condition.

In adults, one of the most common symptoms of EoE is what is called dysphagia. It occurs when the food you eat gets stuck in the esophagus. Patients would have to chew their food carefully and drink lots of water to push the food down their stomach. If you or your child suffer from (or suspecting of having) EoE, it would be a better idea to consult an allergy physician near you.

Is not considered a food allergy?

Technically, it can be considered as one. When you take a certain food that is suspected of causing an allergic reaction, the condition usually subsides and makes the person feel better. But when the person starts eating that offending food again, the allergic reaction might come back.

Also, EoE does not involve IgE antibodies which makes it a little tricky to detect what the offending food is. That said, allergy experts suggest undergoing allergy testing to determine if there are any IgE-mediated allergies such as mold, pollen, or animal dander allergies.

How to treat EoE

Unfortunately, there is no permanent cure for you. However, this condition is generally manageable by proper diet, medication, or both. For one thing, there is no existing treatment for you.

However, allergy experts prescribe corticosteroids or glucocorticosteroids for the patients. Steroids can help provide relief from inflammation and lessen eosinophil activity. On the downside, steroids can only deal with the symptoms and can have potential side effects such as acne and weight gain.

Another way to treat EoE is by adjusting your diet. You can visit an allergy clinic in Manassas VA to determine the specific food item that is causing the adverse reaction. The “Six-food Elimination Diet” refers to a diet that eliminates the most common allergenic foods such as eggs, nuts, soy, milk, wheat, and seafood. From here, doctors and patients will know which among these allergens the culprit is and come up with proper treatment.

The patient can also try the “elemental diet” which is getting rid of all regular drinks and foods from your usual meal plan. And then replacing it with various vitamins, minerals, and amino acids for about a month or so. Once there is an improvement in the esophagus, foods can be reintroduced slowly to determine the culprit that is causing the EoE symptoms.

Food Allergy vs. Food Intolerance: What’s The Difference?

Food and drinks are meant to be enjoyed and to be sources of nourishment and better health. Unfortunately, some people are not able to enjoy certain foods due to health reasons. For example, some people may be advised by their doctors to avoid fatty or salty foods. Others have to avoid dairy products or peanuts due to potential allergic reactions.

Speaking of allergic reactions, you should visit an allergy doctor if you experience symptoms after eating a certain food item. Some of these symptoms may only be mild, while others can be potentially life-threatening. If you suffer from common allergy symptoms, you should go to an allergy clinic immediately for proper treatment.

Often interchanged

There are many types of allergies, one of the most common is food allergies. Food allergies cause adverse reactions when a person consumes a food item that turns out to be the cause of the said allergic reaction. However, there are also instances wherein people mistake food intolerance as allergies.

Food allergies and food intolerance are often mistakenly interchanged but are actually two different things. So, how would you know if what you have is a food allergy or food intolerance? First of all, you should consult a trusted allergist doctor to confirm it. Other than that, you should understand the difference between the two.

All about food allergy

Like any other allergies, a food allergy causes an adverse reaction on the immune system and cause those familiar symptoms including:

Itchy skin/hives/skin rashes
Runny nose, sneezing, wheezing
Stomach pain, diarrhea
Vomiting, nausea
Swelling around the mouth, throat, or tongue
Difficulty in breathing

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease reports that more than 30 million Americans suffer from some kind of allergies – both adults and children. Some children eventually outgrow their allergies, while others bring it along with them into adulthood.

Several food items often cause food allergies such as peanuts, eggs, dairy, soy, tree nuts, wheat, and fish. Food allergies can be life-threatening and can hit different parts of the body including the skin, cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems. If you have allergies, make sure to visit an allergist for immediate treatment.

All about food intolerance

As mentioned, food allergies are often confused with food intolerance, which is two different things. Although, food intolerance can also cause discomfort and other symptoms similar to food allergies. However, there might be little to none reaction if you eat in small amounts. You can also opt for lactose-free milk or have Lactaid in hand just in case.

You can also consult an allergy physician if you are not sure if it’s an allergy or a food tolerance. Food intolerance occurs because of the following:

Being sensitive to certain food ingredients
Lack of an enzyme that is crucial to digest food properly
Stress/anxiety or any psychological issues that affect your eating
Celiac disease

Lactose intolerance is the most common and well-known type of food intolerance. The ingredient lactose is a type of sugar commonly found in dairy products. Some cannot tolerate food additives. The digestive system is the one affected by food intolerance and causes discomfort in your tummy area.

How to differentiate food allergies and intolerance

Both food allergies and intolerance can cause discomfort to those who have it. If you are not sure which of the two you have, you can visit a trusted allergist specialist to confirm your condition. Nevertheless, you should understand the difference between the two.

If you have a food intolerance, your digestive system is the one affected. Whereas, the immune system is often the one affected when someone is experiencing a food allergy. Food intolerance usually is tolerable with mild to moderate discomfort. However, food allergies can be potentially life-threatening if left untreated.

You usually feel the effects of a food intolerance a few hours after you have eaten the offending food. On the other hand, a food allergy symptom usually manifests itself within an hour. If that happens, be prepared to call the nearest emergency room or an allergy clinic in Manassas in case the symptoms worsen.

We need to eat to nourish our bodies and ensure a healthier body and mind. However, we still have to be careful with what we eat and make sure we only eat what’s best for our body and overall health.

Allergic to Sweat? Here’s What You Need to Know

To achieve a healthy mind and body, one must have a regular dose of healthy food and exercise. Some lift weights, while some people do cardio exercises such as running, jumping rope, and cycling. However, some people need to be extra cautious when doing intense physical activities because it can lead to some adverse health effects.

For example, those who suffer from asthma may have to be more careful when exercising. They might also have to bring their asthma treatments in handy just in case something happens while they are doing intense workouts. It is also best to consult an asthma doctor first before engaging in any physical activities.

Aside from asthma, some people experience allergies due to their sweat and getting too hot. Can you imagine getting allergic reactions just because you feel hot and sweaty? Unfortunately, this can be just as common as food and pollen allergies. Nonetheless, you should have yourself checked by an allergist for proper treatment.

What you need to know about “sweat allergy”

The technical term for this type of allergy is Cholinergic urticaria or cholinergic angioedema. In layman’s term, it is also called sweat allergy or heat pumps. Basically, this condition occurs due to increased body temperature and resulting in itchy hives. It is not clear what exactly causes this type of allergy. However, it is said that it is the body’s reaction to sweat.

There is a higher chance of having this condition if you are suffering from other allergies such as eczema, hives, or asthma. People who have CU experience mild to life-threatening symptoms. Common symptoms of CU include the following:

Hives (generalized urticarial)
Swelling (angioedema) around the lips and face, or the tongue or throat in worst cases
Hypotension (low blood pressure)
Bronchospasm

If you notice these symptoms, make sure to visit an allergy specialist doctor to help treat your allergies. You might also need to undergo allergy testing to confirm the real cause of your allergies.

What causes Cholinergic urticaria?

This type of allergy usually happens in a flash after the person gets too hot or starts to sweat. It can occur on different parts of the body especially the arms or the torso. The rash would also feel itchy and even some burning sensation and resemble swelling. On a positive note, these rashes due to cholinergic urticaria will eventually fade as quickly as they appeared.

However, some may experience other symptoms aside from rashes, such as:

Diarrhea
Headaches
Nausea
Stomach cramps
Breathing difficulties

As mentioned, cholinergic urticarial occurs when the person gets sweaty or too hot. But other factors can trigger CU such as:

Eating spicy dishes
Stress/anger
Fever
Sun exposure
Hot baths/sauna/hot tubs

These factors can increase body temperature, making the body hot and even sweaty, hence the possibility of having CU.

How to deal with “sweat allergies”

If you notice the abovementioned symptoms, make sure to consult an allergist doctor immediately. You should also undergo a series of allergy testing such as warming test and exercise test to confirm the diagnosis of CU. Treatment might also vary depending on the person.

Some would have to take meds while others have to change their lifestyle 360 degrees. This means avoid heavy exercises that can make them sweat a lot, not eating spicy foods, and not going to spas and saunas. You should also manage stress and anger through meditation and going on therapy.

You might also have to adjust your diet and avoid foods that can trigger CU. This include:

Alcohol
Dairy (ex. milk, cheese, etc)
Vinegar
Nuts
Canned foods and others with additives
Seafood
Salty foods

It can be more challenging if you live in a tropical country where the sun is often around. In such a case, you need to have antihistamines on hand as prescribed by your doctors such as cetirizine, loratadine, or beta-blockers.

Prevention

If you experience allergic reactions due to CU, say, during exercise, slow down or stop as needed. Take a cool shower or cool off while standing in front of an electric fan or go to an air-conditioned room. Relax and avoid stressing yourself. Visit an allergy clinic in Manassas for immediate treatment of your condition.

Can Allergies Disappear and Re-appear?

Not everyone has allergies, but one thing is for sure: it can affect anyone regardless of gender, age, and race. At some point, a lot of people will experience some kind of allergic reaction that can affect their quality of life. Some of these allergies happen as early as their childhood days, while some happen during adulthood. Nonetheless, allergies can be detrimental to one’s quality of life.

Do you also suffer from some kind of allergy? Make sure to have it consulted with an allergist doctor. You would have to undergo allergy testing to determine the root cause of your allergic reactions. If you are experiencing potentially life-threatening allergic reactions, head to your nearest allergy clinic immediately.

A rite of passage?

We all know how inconvenient it is to have allergies. You might not be able to enjoy spring due to pollens floating around the outdoor air. Or you might not be able to eat your favorite food because you are allergic to its certain ingredient, say, peanuts, or a spice. You would have to consult an allergist specialist to help you treat your allergies.

For starters, allergies occur as our immune system’s reaction to certain allergens like pollen, pet dander, and so on. Ideally, there should be no reason for your body to react to various things. But for some reason, a lot of people develop such intolerance to certain elements or ingredients hence the onset of allergic reactions.

Being allergic to something is one of the most common medical conditions that affect millions of people around the world. It can happen in your childhood, while some may experience it in their teens or during adulthood. If you have not experienced allergies but are experiencing its symptoms, better have yourself checked with an allergy doctor immediately.

Can allergies occur during adulthood?

It does happen in many cases. For example, you grew up having pet dogs or cats at home until you reach early adulthood. Then you leave for college, return home during the break, but you find yourself sniffling around your beloved family dog. However, the reverse can happen to other people, too.

Some people may be allergic to pollen or pet dander before but might have disappeared later on. Most likely because you have already built a tolerance to those common allergens. There is also some allergy specialist doctor who also says that the more you get exposed to allergens, the more likely you will be immune to it later on.

So why do allergies appear and disappear later on (or vice versa)?

Allergies can be weird sometimes. Some may have it during childhood while others have it for the first time during their teenage or adult years. Some experience allergies before but disappear at some point as if it did not happen at all. But there might be reasons why such a phenomenon happens.

It might have something to with age.

Some experts believe that allergies disappear as we age. It can be because we get used to a certain allergen or have built a tolerance to it over time. However, some people might experience the worse effects of allergies due to age.

It can also be caused by stress.

Stress can be detrimental to our health and also can cause allergic reactions. The more you are stressed at work or personal matters, the higher the chances of allergic reactions. Not to mention your immune system will crash and make you sick easier. That is why regular exercise and a healthy diet is a must for a stronger immune system.

The weather may also have something to do with your allergies.

Due to climate change and higher CO2 levels that a lot of plants spew a lot of pollen which is also a common allergen. Temperature swings also cause various illnesses such as inflammation of the sinus which can also cause allergy-like symptoms. There is also a higher chance of getting allergies if you live in a city than in the countryside or a suburban area.

Conclusion

Having allergies is no joke. It can affect the quality of your life. You also have to be always cautious of what you eat or avoid anything that can trigger your allergies. In such cases, you should consult an allergy specialist doctor for proper treatment. Make sure to have allergy testing in Germantown MD so you get treated as soon as possible.