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What You Need to Know About Allergies

Sneezing, itching, watery eyes are all signs that you could be having allergies. 3% of adults in the US suffer from allergies and in this article, we tell you everything you need to know about allergies so that you can take care of yourself. It’s important to understand what you are suffering from so that you are able to take care of yourself and know when you should see an allergy doctor. Allergies can be prevented by simple home remedies and it’s imperative to understand what triggers your allergies.

What Causes Allergic Reactions

An allergy occurs when your immune system encounters an allergen and produces histamines which cause allergy symptoms. Foods such as eggs and peanuts are a common source of allergens. Pollen is a major cause of allergies. Allergies can affect your eyes, skin, mouth, nose or stomach. Each person has a different allergy trigger, one person can be allergic to eggs but not allergic to peanuts. Visit the allergy specialist and get an allergy test to be sure what causes your allergy. Understand your allergies and you will be able to protect yourself from allergens

Most Common Allergens

Below are some of the most common causes of allergies

Medications such as penicillin, antibiotics
Animal dander and bee stings
Dust Mites
Food such as peanuts, tree nuts, fish, eggs, milk, and wheat
Latex
Mold
Plants and pollen

Allergies may be mild or severe which can be life-threatening. It’s important to visit the allergy physician on the onset of allergies to avoid complications. Severe allergies are known as anaphylaxis and could be life-threatening.

Common Allergies

Below are some common types of allergies

Hay Fever or Allergic Rhinitis

Hay fever results in the following

Sneezing and runny nose

Itchy eyes, nose, and mouth

Swollen eyes resulting in allergic conjunctivitis

Food Allergies

Food allergies will cause a tingling feeling in your mouth, swelling in your lips, mouth, and tongue. Food allergies can become severe resulting in anaphylaxis and it’s therefore important that you consult the allergy doctor immediately.

Atopic Dermatitis

It’s also known as Eczema is not caused by allergies but flares up due to allergies. The symptoms you are likely to experience are itching, swelling, sneezing, and a runny nose. If you suffer from Eczema, make sure you visit the allergy clinic when the allergy symptoms begin to avoid becoming severe.

Insect Stings

Bees and other insects may cause swelling, itching, and shortness of breath. It’s best to understand what you are allergic because that helps you avoid the allergens. Severe reaction to stings may also lead to anaphylaxis. If you are stung by an insect, make sure you have a remedy or visit the allergy clinic for medication.

What is Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is an extreme reaction to an allergy. It can cause shock and can result from food, medication, insect, and latex. It can happen suddenly and may go from mild to severe very quickly. Below are symptoms of anaphylaxis

The tightness of the throat
Difficulty in breathing
Hives and swelling
Nausea and vomiting
Fainting and dizziness
Rapid pulse and heart will stop beating

If you are at risk of anaphylaxis its best to visit the allergy clinic and the allergy physician will give you medication to ensure that your allergy condition doesn’t become severe. It’s important to inform the people around your condition so that they are prepared in case of anything.

How to Get Relief from Allergies

It’s important to visit the allergy clinic for antihistamines and decongestants to treat certain symptoms of allergies. If you suffer from asthma, make sure you follow your asthma treatment diligently to avoid attacks.

Ask the allergist for home remedies to help ease the allergies.

Keep your environment allergen free. Keep your house free of dust, close the windows when the pollen levels are high. Have a pet room away from your sitting area.

Knowing you your allergies and the cause is key in minimizing allergic reaction. Make sure you understand what causes your allergies and avoid the allergens.

Most of the common allergens can be avoided by simple home remedies. Keeping your house clean and avoid going outdoors when pollen levels are high will help ease your allergies. Visit the allergy clinic and learn simple home remedies that will help ease your allergies

Tips to Keep Your Children Free from Food Allergies During Holidays

According to statistics, 6% of children suffer from food allergies. Food allergies are an immune response to certain foods. The food allergy will vary from one child to the other with the reaction being mild, severe or life threating. It’s important to work with the allergist Manassas to establish the food that is causing and develop a mechanism to protect your child from the allergy-causing food. As the holiday approach, if your child is allergic to certain foods it’s important to ensure that they don’t eat the food. As you shop for food make sure those delicacies don’t contain the allergens that affect your child. In this article, we tell you how to ensure your child enjoys the holidays despite having food allergies.

How to Avoid Food Allergies During the Holidays

Below tips to help you avoid the different types of food allergies.

Plan ahead and communicate

If you are attending an event with your child who is allergic to certain foods make sure you communicate what your child is allergic to. Inform them of what the child is allergic to and the main sources of allergens. Ask that they remove the allergens from the menu if its possible. If it’s not possible to remove the allergen from the menu come up with a way of avoiding the allergens. You can request for part of the kitchen to be reserved for the food without the allergens.

Carry Safe Food as you Travel

To reduce the risk of eating foods with allergens or coming into contact with food that causes allergies carrying the right food as you travel will reduce the chances of food allergies. Its also makes traveling easier and fun because you don’t have to wander away looking for food.

Monitor your child During events

If your child has food allergies, it’s important to ensure that you keep a close eye on them to prevent them from consuming allergens. A child may get over excited to see other consuming food that contains allergens and that may lead to food allergies. If your child is old enough train them on what causes allergies and how to avoid the allergens. The allergy doctor can train the child on how to avoid allergens. Inform the children to alert you before they take any food. Train older children on allergens that affect them and how to avoid the specific allergens.

Offer to Host Gathering or Cook During Gatherings

The health and safety of your child are paramount. If you can host or cook the food the child that will ensure the safety of your child. Getting involved in the cooking process will ensure that your child is safe.

Be ready in case of Emergencies

It’s important to ensure that family members understand your child allergy situation and what to do in case of severe allergies. Make sure they know what to do in case the child is in an environment which is not safe. You can request a different room for the child with allergies. You can also suggest that gathering be held in a more safe environment where they are not in contact with allergens.

Choose the right Destination for your family

Before you travel to explore places that offer with no allergens. Travel to places where you can communicate clearly Explain the child need before travel and confirm that food with no allergens will be available.

Always read the labels

Before you let the child indulge in snacks read the label and ensure there are allergens in the food. Even if you have previously bought the snack reread the label to avoid any surprises. The snack manufacturer may have introduced an allergen without prior notice.

Speak to Allergy Physician and Get a Meal Plan

The health of your child is important and it’s crucial to ensure that the child feeds on a balanced diet during the holidays. Speak to the allergy specialist on the best food supplement you can stock or carry as you travel. Consult the allergy specialist on ways to avoid the allergen. Ask for medications to use in case of an emergency

The above tips will help you and your child enjoy the holidays without developing severe allergies. Make the necessary arrangements before traveling to ensure the comfort of your child. Visit the allergy clinic and consult on any medication you can carry in case of an emergency.

How to Manage Drug Allergies

Drug allergies result when the body immune system reacts to medication. A drug allergy is different from a drug reaction or toxicity. A reaction is already anticipated by the drug manufacturer while an allergy may not be. Different people react differently to medication and it’s therefore important that you see an allergy doctor when you experience any symptoms after taking a drug.

Symptoms of Drug Allergies

Skin rashes or hives
Itching and breathing problems
Swelling of the mouth and throat
Congestion
Anaphylaxis which is life-threatening.it can cause breathing issues, dizziness, fainting, anxiety, high pulse rate, and confusion. Contact the allergy doctor immediately to avoid fatalities.

The symptoms of a drug allergy can occur immediately they are absorbed into the bloodstream.

Drugs that Cause Allergies

Below are the drugs that are likely cause allergies;

Antibiotics such as amoxicillin, tetracycline
Nonsteroid like ibuprofen and aspirin
Sulfa drugs
Chemotherapy drugs
Monoclonal antibody therapy
HIV drugs
Insulin
Antiseizure drugs
Muscle relaxers
Penicillin
Anticonvulsants

How to Diagnose Drug Allergies

To diagnose the drug allergies, visit the allergy clinic for a drug allergy test. The allergy specialist will carry out a skin test or a drug challenge. A skin test is accurate when testing for penicillin.

How to Manage Drug Allergies

Avoid drugs that cause allergies
Visit the allergy physician immediately to avoid the symptoms from worsening
Inform your family and health care providers of any previous allergies.

It’s hard to diagnose drug allergies. The symptoms of drug allergies resemble other types of allergies. Symptoms such as rashes and hives and asthma may result from other allergies and it’s important to visit the allergy clinic for a diagnosis. Below are some of the questions the allergist is likely to ask

What drugs did you take and which one do you think caused the reaction?
When did you start taking the drug that caused the allergy and are you still taking it?
After how long did you notice the drug symptoms and what symptoms did you notice?
How long did the symptoms last and how did you relieve them?
Have you taken any other medication or over the counter medication?
Did you take any other medication to relieve the symptoms allergies?
The allergist will also want to know whether you have a reaction to any other drug. It’s good to bring the drugs you have taken to the allergy specialist.

Facts About Drug Allergies

Below some facts about allergies;

Anybody can have drug allergies.

Prescription medication and over the counter medication can cause drug allergies. Some triggers such as antibiotics and pain relievers are more likely to trigger allergic reactions than other.

Symptoms may start right away or after weeks

Drug allergies can cause symptoms as soon as the drug is ingested or may take minutes or weeks. It may become hard to figure out the cause of the allergy and it’s therefore important to visit the allergy clinic for allergy testing.

Drug symptoms may range from severe to mild. Mild symptoms include rashes or give and may affect your nose, throat, and ears. Severe symptoms may be life-threatening.
A drug allergy is different from drug side effects. Drug side effects are expected while an allergy is not.
A drug allergy can occur at any time. A drug you have taken for a long time can result in an allergic reaction.

An allergic reaction may not occur the first time you take a drug. It may occur the second time you take the drug.

Having other allergies increases the chances of a drug allergy. Having the below allergies will increase the risk of drug allergies

Hay fever

Previous drug allergies

History of allergies in your families

Diseases such as leukemia, HIV

You can manage drug allergies

It’s important that consult the allergy physician who will give you alternate medication. Make sure you notify the allergy doctor as soon as you get the symptoms

Make sure that you consult the allergist Manassas when you experience the above signs to avoid any fatalities. Visit the allergy clinic and take an allergy test to diagnose which drug is causing the allergies. If the drug causing the allergy has no alternative, the allergy specialist will advise on how best to take the medication.

How to Manage Seasonal Allergies

About 9% of American experience seasonal allergies. Hay fever is a seasonal allergy that occurs in certain seasons. It occurs when the body reacts to an allergen such as pollen causing an allergic reaction. It’s important to see an allergist Manassas if you experience severe allergies. Pollen is the largest cause of seasonal allergies but below other allergens that may cause allergies.

Weed such as ragweed’s, and tumbleweed
Grass-like an orchard, Bermuda

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies

Runny and watery eyes
Sneezing and coughing
Itchy eyes and noses
Ear congestion.

Less common symptoms of seasonal allergies

Headaches and wheezing
Coughing and shortness of breath

If you have asthma hay fever will make asthma and may lead to an asthma attack. It’s therefore important that you visit the allergy clinic if you experience any severe symptoms

Causes of Seasonal Allergies

Hay fever results when the body encounters an allergen and release histamines. Histamines cause allergic reactions. Causes of hay fever depend from one season to another.

Spring

During spring trees are the biggest cause of seasonal allergies. Trees such as birch, cedar, alder, chestnut, and other trees produce pollen and that cause allergy. It’s important to determine when the pollen levels are high and avoid going out when the levels are high.

Summer

Summer is the hay cutting season and that’s when hay fever is most common thus the name hay fever. The main cause of summer allergies is weed and grass such as ryegrass. During summer make sure you know the levels of pollen and avoid having activities when there is a high pollen level.

Autumn

One of the main causes of allergy during fall is ragweed which has more than 40 species. Pollen from ragweed can cause severe allergies and it’s, therefore, important to ensure that avoid the plant. Other plants that may cause allergies include nettles, sorrels and fat hens plants. In case of any severe reactions make sure you visit the allergy doctor immediately for medication. Make sure the garden around your house is free of ragweeds or any other allergen.

Winter

During the winter most allergens are dormant due to the cold. There are minimal chances of getting hay fever because you spend most of the time indoors. Winter season allergies are mostly caused by indoor allergens such as mould, pet dander, dust mites, and cockroaches. Simple home remedies will ensure you get rid of the allergens. Below some tips to follow to get rid of the winter indoor allergens.

Clean your bedding with hot water once a week to keep away allergens such as dust mites
Make sure you cover your bedding in allergen-proof covers
Avoid having carpets and upholstered furniture
Make sure your bedroom is not stuffed with items such toys
Make sure there are no leaks that will cause moulds and other pests that can cause allergies.
Keep your house sparkling clean to avoid moulds. Invest in humidifiers and swamp coolers to keep moulds from forming in your house. Install dehumidifiers to reduce moisture.

How to Diagnose Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies can be diagnosed using blood or skin test. The allergist put a small portion of the allergen on the skin and observe. The allergen will cause the skin to turn red and itch.

If the allergy cannot be diagnosed through a skin test the allergy physician will use a more detailed blood test.

Treatment of Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies can be treated using

Antihistamines and decongestants
Nasal sprays and corticosteroids
Eye drops and nasal irrigation
Immunotherapy

It’s best to visit the allergy clinic and let the allergy doctor diagnose and give you medication. Make sure you follow the prescription given by the allergy specialist to help ease the allergic reaction. If the allergies are mild home remedies may help prevent the allergies. It’s important that you discuss the home remedy to follow with the allergy specialist.

Tips to Ease Seasonal Allergies

Stay indoors when the pollen count is high
Use air purifiers and air conditioners to keep the air in your house clean and fresh. Make sure the air filters are cleaned regularly. Also, ensure any other space that lets in fresh air is clean.
Clean beddings and rugs in hot water often to kill dust mites and other allergens
When cutting grass in your lawn wear a mask to prevent coming into contact with pollen
Change clothes and shower after going outside. Don’t stay in the same clothes after going outdoors as they harbour pollen

Seasonal allergies can be prevented by using simple home remedies. It’s however important that you visit the allergy specialist and consult on how best to avoid the allergen that is causing your allergies. Make sure you follow the home remedy diligently to ease the allergy symptoms

How to Enjoy Outdoors When You Have Allergies

Allergies can wreak havoc in your life but with proper management, you get to enjoy your life like everyone else. It’s therefore important that you visit the allergy clinic and consult the allergy doctor on how you can manage your allergies. In this article, we go through simple tips that will help you enjoy doing your outdoor activities by managing your allergies. You need to visit the allergist first and get your allergies assessed and then you can follow the below tips

Tips on How to Enjoy Outdoors When You Have Allergies

Have a Pollen room in your House

Have a room where you leave clothes that you wear when going outdoors. After gardening doesn’t go into other rooms with the clothes instead leave them in the designated pollen room. That helps to prevent the spread of pollen to the rest of the house. Make sure you take a shower after going outdoors and then wear a fresh set of clothes. Pollen may also hang on hair so it’s important that you ensure you thoroughly clean your hair. Choose the room near the exit door.

Follow the Allergy Physician Prescription

Visit the allergy specialist and understand the kind of allergy is affecting you. If its food allergy make sure you know the kind of food affecting you. The allergist will give you medication and advise on home remedies that will ease your allergies. Make sure you diligently follow the instruction from the allergy specialist. Be keen and in case of any other symptoms speak to your allergy physician and get the right remedy. Some simple home remedies, when followed diligently, will help ease your allergies. Make sure you take your medication on time

Stay Updated on the Pollen Count

Check the local forecast for the pollen count. Make sure you are informed on the pollen count and the type of pollen. The guide will help you know which areas to avoid to keep your allergies at bay. The pollen count guide will only work if know the kind of pollen that causes your allergies.

Wear Protective clothing

If you have to go to the garden when the pollen count is high making sure you invest in pollen filter mask. The mask will block the allergen. If you have mowed your lawn make sure you are protected. It’s, however, better to have someone else mow your lawn if you are allergic to grass pollen. Invest in some glasses to ensure that pollen doesn’t irritate your eyes.

Choose the Right Time for Outdoor Activites

Avoid going outdoors when the pollen count is high. Between 5 am and 10 am the pollen count is high. If its windy the pollen count may also be high. Allocate that outdoor activity when the pollen count is low. Seasonal allergies will act up when its windy and there is low humidity

Have an Allergen Free Garden

Make sure the garden that surrounds your house has no allergens and will minimize exposure to pollen. Plant flowers that have low pollen counts such as roses and hibiscus.

Know What to do When Allergy attacks Occur

Its imperative that you know what to do in case of an allergy attack occurs. Allergy attacks may occur despite being careful and its therefore important that you know what to do. Make sure you arm yourself with medication and home remedies that may ease allergy attacks. Inform the caregiver and your family of your allergy situation and teach them what they should do in case of an attack. In case you have asthma inform them how they should administer the asthma treatment. Pin the allergy specialist contact on a wall where everyone can see them.

Anticipate Allergens when Travelling

If you travel outside your normal residence, anticipate the presence of allergens and make the necessary adjustments. It’s best to do a research on the area you are travelling and know when the pollen count may high. Knowing the kind of allergens you expect will help you be well prepared.

It’s important that you discover what you are allergic to. Before you declare any item as the cause of your allergies visit the allergist Manassa for allergy testing. Knowing what causes your allergy will make it easier to manage your allergies. Follow simple tips from the allergy specialist on how to ease allergens and you can enjoy your outdoor activities.

Everything you Need to Know About Allergies

According to statistics 30% of adults and 40% of children have allergies. Allergies result when your body comes into contact with allergens and reacts resulting in the production of histamines. The production of histamines causes one to itch, have watery eyes and other allergy symptoms. Allergens can be found in food, in the air, in your house, and in your clothes. It’s important that you visit the allergy physician for a diagnosis of what is causing your allergies. In this post, we educate you on what causes allergies and how to avoid allergens.

Causes of Allergies

Allergies can run in families and they may be inherited. If any member of your family has allergies, you are likely to suffer from allergies. Below is a list of substances that may cause allergies;

Dust and dust mites
Pollen and moulds
Pet Dander
Certain foods such eggs, nuts or shellfish
Certain medications such as penicillin
Some plants may cause allergies

Signs and symptoms of an allergy

The sign of allergy can be mild or severe. If you come into contact with an allergen your symptoms may become mild and then severe. If you notice any of the below signs, visit the allergy clinic and let the allergy specialist check you to avoid any severe symptoms. If you know what is causing the symptoms, avoid the allergen.

Itchy red spot on your skin
Itching and nasal congestion
Rashes and a feeling of scratching on the throat
Watery eyes.
Severe allergies will cause the below symptoms
Severe abdominal pain or cramping
Tight chest
Diarrhoea

You will find it difficult to swallow and feel dizzy

Nausea and vomiting
Anxiety and high heart beat rate
Swollen face and feeling weak
Wheezing and breathing difficulties
Causes unconsciousness

Allergies can become severe within a short time and it’s important that you visit the allergy doctor for a diagnosis. Severe allergies are known as anaphylaxis and it’s life-threatening. It results in the below symptoms

Swollen airways and inability to breathe
The sudden drop in blood pressure

If you experience the above symptoms, ensure that you visit an allergy specialist as they can be fatal

Allergy Testing

The allergy physician will begin by asking you questions on your allergy history. The allergy specialist may request that you keep track of the allergy symptoms by documenting. Below the most common allergy test that an allergist will carry out.

Skin test which involves placing the allergens on the skin and gauging the reaction. The allergen may be placed in the skin, pricked under the skin or injected into the skin. A skin test will help diagnose

Food allergies such as peanuts

Pollen and mould allergy

Bites allergy such as mosquito bites

Medicine allergy such as penicillin

Challenge testing is used to test for food allergies It involves removing certain foods from your diet and checking whether there are any signs and symptoms. That is done until the food causing the allergy is identified
A blood test is carried out to check whether there are any antibodies produced to fight allergens. A blood test is recommended when skin testing is not effective

Treatment of Allergy

If you are experiencing mild allergies and you know the cause of the allergies, then you can avoid the allergen and use home remedies to clear off the symptoms. If you experience severe allergy its critical that you see an allergy doctor immediately for allergy testing and medication. The allergy specialist will prescribe antihistamines to help ease the allergies and also advice you on how best to minimize the chances of coming into contact with allergens. If you or a member of your family suffers from severe cases of allergies it’s wise to ensure that they have their medication at all times. If your child has allergies, make sure the caregiver knows how to take care of the child.

Conclusion

Preventive measures will ease your allergies. The allergy doctor will advise you on home remedies that will help ease your allergies. Simple procedures such as keeping your doors locked when the pollen count is high, will reduce the chances of an allergy. It’s important that you identify what causes your allergies and avoid the allergen. Visit the allergy clinic if you experience any severe symptoms and let the allergist Manassas diagnose you.

Allergy and Asthma: The Similarities and Differences

Millions of people in the United States suffer from allergies and half of them also suffer from asthma. Allergies and asthma have common triggers and symptoms and that makes it hard to differentiate between them. Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander that cause allergy could trigger asthma signs and symptoms. The likely hood of an asthma attack can be increased when one has allergies. It’s important that if you experience a severe allergic reaction that you visit the allergist to avoid the condition becoming fatal especially if you have an asthma history.

What are Allergies and What are the causes?

Allergy is the reaction to otherwise unharmful substances such as pollen, mold, dust pet dander. The main difference between an allergy attack and an asthma attack is the location of the reaction. Allergies affect the upper respiratory system. The reaction is caused when the body produces antibodies which trigger the production of histamines. Histamines will cause the below symptoms

Sneezing and congestion
Watery and Itchy eyes
Running Nose
Rashes and hives
An itchy throat
Causes of Allergies
Animal dander and dust mites
Cockroaches and Mold
Pollen

Most allergy symptoms disappear on their own after some hours. Avoid coming into contact with the allergy triggers. If the symptoms persist, visit the allergy doctor for a diagnosis.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a more serious condition and it’s critical you visit the allergy clinic and let the asthma doctor examine you. Asthma is caused by the same antibodies that cause allergies, but the reaction is in the lungs and upper bronchial passage. The passage becomes inflamed and closes, resulting in difficulty breathing and coughing. When one is experiencing an asthma attack there is a high production of mucus due to the inflamed membranes that line the airwaves. Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases and should be treated immediately to avoid fatalities. Make sure that you visit the asthma doctor for asthma treatment if you experience any of the below symptoms

Coughing and wheezing
Chest pains and shortness of breath
Difficulty in breathing
Coughing at night and early morning

Types of Asthma

Asthma is either allergic or nonallergic.

Allergic asthma is triggered by the presence of allergens in the external environment. Allergens such as dust, pollen, and Mold will cause allergic asthma.
Non-Allergic Asthma, on the other hand, is more permanent and it’s triggered by internal factors such as infection, breathing polluted air or changes in the quality of air. Nonallergic asthma can also be triggered by sudden weather changes.

Are Allergies and Asthma Linked?

Allergies and asthma are linked in the following ways;

The location and severity of symptoms differ both allergies and asthma can be triggered by the same allergens.
They are seasonal and will mostly occur in spring or summer when there are more allergens
If you don’t visit the allergy clinic and get treatment for allergies they become asthma.
Both allergies and asthma can happen simultaneously due to allergens

Difference between Allergies and Asthma

Asthma can be caused by emotions, such as sadness and infections while allergies can’t be caused by emotions. Allergies can only be caused by allergens
Allergies become less severe as you grow older. As you grow older the immune system is less dramatic towards allergens. Asthma becomes worse as you grow older as the damage respiratory system accumulates more. As your child grows older the likely hood of asthma attacks increases.

How to Deal with Allergies and Asthma

The first step is to see an allergy specialist to assess your situation. The allergy doctor will perform an allergy test and give you medication. Most of the symptoms of allergies and asthma will be cured by taking medicine such as antihistamines.
The next step is to come up with a plan on how to avoid allergens. Avoid going out when the pollen levels are high and keep your house allergen free.

It’s important that you understand how severe your allergies and asthma are and how to deal with your condition, to ensure they don’t become fatal. Visit the asthma clinic MD as soon as you experience symptoms that may lead to an asthma attack. Make sure you stay away from allergens and that will ease your allergies and asthma.

How to Deal with Skin Allergies

According to statistics more than 10 million in the united states suffer from allergies during their lifetime. Skin allergy can affect any part of the body and can result from psoriasis, eczema, pollen, acne, insect bites, food and other factors. If the skin allergy symptoms keep recurring its best that you consult an allergist Manassas as that could be a sign of a more serious health issue. The below are the most common signs of skin allergy;

Rash and itching
Redness and swelling
Raised bumps and flaky skin
Cracked, and dry skin.

Skin allergy symptoms will disappear on their own after some time, but if you notice that is no improvement speak to your allergy Physician and get medication.

Types of Noninfectious Rashes

Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is also known as Eczema and most common in children. The skin becomes dry and prone to irritation. Food allergies will make eczema more severe and its linked to asthma and hay fever. It’s important that if you notice your child has a flaky irritating skin that you visit the allergy doctor for treatment.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when your skin comes into contact with an allergen.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Mostly affects adults and it’s characterized by an itchy eruption on the forehead, cheeks, forehead, and ears.

Hives or Urticaria

Hives result from an inflammation of the skin when the body immune system releases histamine.

Heat Rash (Miliaria)

The heat rush results from hot and humid weather and results from occlusion of the sweat glands. Most occur around the neck and upper chest.

Stasis Dermatitis

Occurs on the lower legs and results in chronic swelling due to poor circulation in the veins

Home Remedies to Ease Skin Allergies

It’s best that you visit the allergy doctor and discuss the home remedy for the skin allergy that will work for you.

Cold Compress

A cold compress is the perfect skin allergy remedy but only works if the allergy is not as a result of the cold. A cold compress will shrink the blood vessels and stop histamine from being released into the blood. That will aid in reducing the allergic reaction. A cold shower will also help reduce skin allergy.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is rich in vitamin E and acts as an antioxidant, which helps repair and heals the skin after an allergic reaction. Apply an amount of olive oil on the affected area and that will help ease the allergic reaction.

Baking Soda

Baking soda will help the rash dry out. Mix a half teaspoon of baking soda in water and make a paste. Apply the paste on the affected area and leave it for a few minutes before wiping it out. Leaving the paste for too long on the skin may cause irritation. Before using the paste you can consult the allergy specialist to avoid making the irritation worse.

Apple cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar helps reduce acid reflux, acts as an antiseptic and anti-irritant. Apply the vinegar over your skin and that will help soothe and moisturize the skin reducing the itching. Place a few drops of the vinegar in a cotton ball and dab over the itching place. Rinse the skin after a few minutes.

Ground Oat Meal

Ground oatmeal acts as a soothing balm for the itchy and inflamed skin. On applying the oatmeal it will reduce redness and itching. Oatmeal contains avenanthramide which is anti-inflammatory and anti-itching chemicals. To make oatmeal effective, put in a bathtub full of water and soak in it for some time.

Stinging Nettle

Stinging nettle contains antihistamine properties. Steam the stinging nettle leaves and then eat the leaves to get the antihistamine benefits.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal properties that will help ease skin allergies. Apply Aloe Vera regularly to ease the allergic reaction and reduce the itchiness. Extract a fresh Aloe Vera and apply it on the affected area. Wash off after 30minutes.

The above home remedies should help ease skin allergies, however, before you begin using any of the remedies visit the allergy specialist and consult on which one will work for you. Too much of the home remedies may aggravate the allergies and it’s important that you use the right portion. If the skin allergy doesn’t ease even after using the remedy, contact the allergy physician for a further diagnosis and testing.

How to Deal with Allergies in Children

An allergic reaction in a child may be hard to pick as most allergies have the same symptoms as common childhood ailments. An allergy is an immune system reaction to an allergen producing antibodies. Your child is still young and sensitive, its important that before you give any medication, take the child to the allergy clinic and let the allergy doctor check and diagnose the severity of the allergy.

Common Allergens

Food such as cow milk, eggs, fish, soy and wheat, and nuts
Drugs
Insect and dust mites
Pet Fur and Pollen
Mold and animal dander

Signs that your Child Has Food Allergies

Painful stomach and coughing
Diarrhea and vomiting
Nausea and Rashes
Runny and stuffy nose
Tightness and trouble breathing

If you notice any of the above signs immediately take your child to the allergy physician as food allergies may become severe. Food allergies have no cure and its important that you identify the food that causes the allergy and avoids it. With time most children outgrow the allergies.

Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies worsen during certain times of the year. Pollen from trees and plants is one of the major triggers of seasonal allergy.

Common Signs of Seasonal Allergies

Sneezing and watery eyes
Itchy nose and stuffy nose

Common Seasonal Allergy Triggers

Tree pollen and insect bites
Pet fur and dust mites
Cigarette smoke, perfumes, and car exhaust fumes

Natural remedies to Counter Allergies in Children

Keep pets out of your home or invest in a pet that will not cause allergies such as fish
Change air ducts to ensure there is fresh air in the house
Sweep and vacuum your house often. Make sure the baby is not in the house during vacuuming
Freeze toys in the freezer to kill dust mites. Put the toys in a sealable plastic bag and place them in a freezer for 5 hours once per week.
Avoid using vaporizers and humidifiers to avoid mold and dust mites
Use allergen-proof mattress covers for the baby’s bed to avoid any allergens
Avoid wall to wall carpets as they harbor a lot of dust
Avoid foods that cause allergies. Before you stop giving your child a certain type of food make sure you consult the allergy physician on the food supplement to give your child. Breastfeed your child for the first six months. Avoid eating foods that cause allergy to make sure your child is comfortable. When nursing uses a hypoallergenic formula to ensure that your child doesn’t develop an allergy.
Make sure there is no smoke in your home

The above simple tips will help minimize allergy symptoms and will help keep your children happy despite having allergies.

Signs that your Child has Allergies and not the common cold

The symptoms of the common cold and allergies are almost the same and it may be hard to tell them apart. In this section, we detail sign that your child has allergies and not the common cold.

Persistent thin watery discharge is a sign of allergies. A running nose with cloudy discharge and fever is a sign your child has a cold.

Difficulty in breathing resulting from anaphylaxis is a sign of severe allergic reaction.

Wheezing can result from asthma, allergens, and viruses also cause a dry cough which progresses to wheezing. If you notice the above take your child to an asthma doctor for a check-up.

Babies rubbing their eyes more frequently. Allergies cause the eyes to itch more persistently, tearing excessively and become irritable

Developing eczema in baby’s skin is one of the signs of the allergy. Eczema causes red, scaly. oozing rashes on baby’s skin. If you notice Dry and itchy patches of skin around the neck, wrist, and elbows that is a sign of the onset of allergies.

Change in behavior of a child could indicate the onset of allergies. General discomfort and unhappiness could be a sign your child has allergies.

Help your child feel more comfortable by making it easier for them to cope with allergies. Make sure their rooms are allergen free. Take them out when the pollen levels are low. Train and help the child understand their allergy situation as they grow up. Make sure you consult the allergist Manassas before using any home remedy and be keen on the child as they use the home remedy to ensure their situation is improving.

Food Allergy or Food Intolerance? Compared symptoms and Differences

A food allergy occurs when your system reacts to food ingested and triggering a protective response. The allergy can develop from any age with the reaction being mild to severe. According to research, 10 % of the population suffers from food allergy and the numbers keep on increasing. In this post, we highlight some of the most common signs of allergy and how to differentiate between food intolerance and food allergy and the treatment of food allergy. It’s important however that you consult the allergy doctor on the best way to overcome the allergies. Before we dive into the article we differentiate between food intolerance and food allergy

Food Intolerance

This is the difficulty in digesting certain foods without triggering any reaction from the immune system and there is no histamine response.

Food allergy, on the other hand, causes immune system reaction and histamine response.

It may be hard to tell food intolerance and allergy are hard to tell apart and it’s important that you visit the allergy clinic for the allergy doctor to do allergy testing to determine whether its an allergy or intolerance.

How to differentiate between food allergies and intolerance

Food allergy is sudden as compared to intolerance which is gradual
Food allergy results from the small number of foods
Allergy can be life-threatening and happens every time you eat as compared to food intolerance which is not life-threatening and results if you eat the food often.

Foods that cause Most of the Allergy

Milk and Eggs
Peanuts and seafood
Tree nuts

Symptoms that result from both food intolerance and food allergy

Nausea and stomach pains
Diarrhea and vomiting
Signs of Food intolerance
Heart Burn, gas and bloating
Headaches and irritability

Signs of Food Intolerance

Bloating and nausea
Headaches and migraines
stomach ache and irritable bowel
Feeling under the weather

Above are the most common signs of food intolerance, and below some food that causes intolerance

Lactose and wheat
Gluten and caffeine
Food additives such as flavors

Before you give up on the above food, see a doctor who will diagnose and confirm the cause of the intolerance. Remove the food that causes the intolerance from your diet and supplements the foods.

Sign of Food Allergies

Wheezing

Wheezing after eating certain foods signifies a narrowing of the airwaves and an allergic reaction to the food. Wheezing can be fatal and its therefore important that you see the allergy physician for treatment.

Hives and Redness

Are you breaking out in hives? or itch? Then it’s possible that you have a food allergy. Hives cause a red rash that is raised on the skin. On its own hives or itch may not be harmful but if it involves difficulty in breathing then you need to see an allergy specialist immediately.

Dizziness

After eating food if you feel dizzy, weak or lightheaded that could mean you are exposed to allergens. Dizziness could be an early sign of anaphylactic and it’s important that you visit an allergy clinic for tests and treatment.

Intestinal Discomfort

A food allergy could cause stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting and you should see the best allergist for diagnosis.

Sneezing and Itching

Although sneezing is mostly associated with hay fever, it can result from food allergies.

How to Prevent Food Allergies

Learn which foods cause the allergy and avoid the food.
When you visit a hotel, find out how the food is made and verify whether the food contains any allergens.
Look at the food labels and check the ingredients in the food at the supermarket
Avoid products with labels for you’re the specific allergen that is affecting you
Plan before traveling, plan your meals and carry food with that has no allergens
Supplement the foods you are allergic to as that will ensure that you remain healthy.

There is no cure for food allergies and it’s therefore important that you manage the condition. Pursue a plan on how to identify allergens. An elimination diet will help you pinpoint the food allergens that you are allergic to and help reduce the allergy symptoms. Work with the allergy physician to come up with a written diet plan and follow it diligently. If the symptoms persist make sure you consult your allergist Manassas.