Tag Archives: allergy remedies

Common Food Allergens and The Best Alternatives

All of us deserve to enjoy all types of foods, whether you are fond of meat or a strict vegetarian. Food brings people together – meals are better eaten with the company of friends and loved ones. It also tells the story of each country – in fact, there are some foods and delicacies unique to that particular country.

While food is meant to be enjoyed, some are not able to do so. This is due to their sensitivity to a particular food by which others do not have adverse effects at all. In this case, it is important to consult an allergist specialist near your area so you can be prescribed the right medication.

What is a food allergy?

A food allergy occurs when there is an adverse reaction when a certain food is consumed. Usually, allergic reactions can be mild and ones that go away after taking medications.

In the worst cases, food allergies may cause a potentially life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis. If you have a suspected food allergy, you should have allergy testing so proper medications will be provided.

Symptoms and Causes

Among common symptoms of food allergy include the following:

Skin rashes/eczema/hives
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain/cramps
Swelling mouth/tongue/face
Watery/swelling eyes
Tightening of the throat/difficulty in breathing
Blood pressure drop

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical help from a reliable and experienced allergy physician immediately. Upon visiting an allergist doctor, prepared to be asked about your history and diet as well as undergoing blood and skin tests to determine your condition. Better yet, you should avoid food allergens that you suspect causing those adverse reactions.

Common food allergies

Among common culprits of food allergies include the following:

Cow’s milk

Children are more affected by milk allergies than adults. This is usually caused by a bodily reaction to some milk proteins. Other milk-based and dairy products may also trigger allergies.

Eggs

Eggs are usually incorporated and added in a lot of recipes, which means avoiding it can be quite challenging. For example, this poultry is added to most bread and pastries as well as other savory dishes. Even egg shells are used in different purposes and can be mixed in other foods and beverages.

Peanuts/Tree nuts

Peanuts, which are technically under the legumes family, may be the culprit for your allergies but not tree nuts such as almonds and walnuts, or vice versa. Nonetheless, it is important to be careful when eating nuts as it can trigger severe reactions, especially among children.

Wheat

Wheat is commonly found in many foods such as beer, soy sauce, and ketchup. Even cosmetics and bath and skin care products contain wheat. That is why you should check the label carefully before buying it.

Seafood

These include certain kinds of fish and shellfish. Seafood allergies may either develop earlier in childhood or later on adulthood.

Best Food Alternatives

The good news is there are alternatives if you are allergic to the abovementioned types of foods. Here are some of the common food allergens and the best food alternatives as will most likely recommend by your allergy specialist:

Cow’s milk

There are a lot of cow’s milk alternatives if you are allergic to this. Among your possible choices (which can be a healthier choice, too) include coconut, soy, almond, oat, hazelnut, hemp, and macadamia milk among a few. However, make sure you are not also allergic to some of the alternatives mentioned here such as oat or soy.

Eggs

If eaten as is, you can easily avoid it. But when eggs are used as an ingredient, it can be challenging to avoid it. One of the safest options you can do is to make your own recipe not involving eggs. For binding and leavening, you can use a mix of water, oil, and baking powder, or used fruit purees such as apple sauce or mashed bananas.

Peanuts/Tree nuts

If you are allergic to nuts, you are also most likely allergic to peanut butter. One great alternative is using almond butter and sunflower seed butter. The former contains a high amount of fiber and low in saturated fat. The latter, on the other hand, is packed with protein and healthy fat.

If you want to eat nuts but are allergic to it, you can try munching on pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, or flaxseed seed. These nut alternatives can help improve your heart and brain health.

Wheat

If you are allergic to wheat or gluten, you can use coconut, almond, oat, or rice flour when baking. These are easily absorbed by the body, improve metabolism, and regulate blood sugar level. Instead of wheat bread or pasta, you can use quinoa, lentils, chickpeas, potato, or brown rice.

Seafood

Seafood including fish and shellfish are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids and protein. If protein is what you need on your diet, you can find it in chicken, beef, pork, tofu, lentils, and black beans.

For any signs of food allergy, find a reliable allergy clinic near you. Seek medical help from the best allergist in Manassas, VA today.

Different Allergy Types and Symptoms

Millions of people all over the world are afflicted with a certain type of allergy. Such allergic reactions can affect a person’s daily tasks and even the overall quality of life. Allergies may cause potentially life-threatening effects. If you or a loved one is suffering from a specific type of allergy, it is highly recommended to seek help from a reliable allergy specialist near you.

What is an allergy?

There are actually different types of allergies. Some occur depending on the season. On the other hand, some are chronic, which means they suffer from it for the longest time and perhaps even for the rest of their lives.

An allergy usually happens as a result of the body’s reaction to a specific substance which is deemed harmful or toxic. Upon presence of the allergen — or any substance that causes the allergy — the immune system releases histamine which causes the allergic reactions.

Our immune system produces antibodies, in which the latter is able to detect a specific allergy-causing substance. Most people won’t experience adverse effects coming into contact with these allergens. But for some reason, some people are overly-sensitive with a specific allergen which causes their allergies.

Allergic reactions may also vary depending on the type of allergy. Some may experience a sudden runny nose or non-stop sneezing even though they don’t have colds. Others may experience itchy skin or digestive problems. In worst cases, allergy sufferers may experience difficulty in breathing or even death if left untreated.

For any signs and symptoms of allergies, it is important to have them checked by an allergy physician. He or she will help you manage or even prevent the onset of allergies. Once the source of allergy is determined, the allergist will prescribe medications and other tips to avoid having allergy attacks.

Common causes of allergies

Allergic reactions may be due to different things – such as pet dander, a specific food, insect bite, medications, or pollen, among a few. Allergy testing is usually done to determine the cause of such allergic reactions. As mentioned, allergies are caused by different factors. Among common causes of allergies include the following:

Foods such as nuts, seafood, eggs, milk, soy, and wheat
Airborne substances such as dust mites, mold and mildew, pollen, and animal dander
Medications such as antibiotics, penicillin, or others
Insect stings from wasps or bees
Latex or other chemicals included in soaps or detergents that can lead to skin allergies

You may also be more prone to allergies if you have a family history of allergies (whether from food, airborne, or other allergens) or asthma. Children are also more likely to suffer from allergies than adults. For any signs of allergies, it is best to consult an allergy specialist doctor or find an allergy clinic near you.

Types and symptoms of allergies

There are different types and causes of allergies. Among common types of allergies are the following:

Food Allergies

Food allergies may manifest itself regardless of age but are more common in young children. Some allergies can even occur even if you are already eating that certain food for a long time without any adverse reactions.

Among common food allergens include eggs, peanuts, seafood (including shellfish and fish), soy, milk, and wheat. On the other hand, people with food allergies may experience hives, vomiting, tingling sensation or swelling of the lips, face, or throat, difficulty in breathing, or anaphylaxis in worst cases.

Skin Allergies

Skin allergies may be triggered by different things including plants such as poison ivy, medications or food. These triggers may cause skin irritation including itchiness, redness, and the appearance of rashes.

Skin conditions such as hives and eczema are usually triggered by allergies. It is recommended to find an allergist doctor to determine the cause of your skin allergy.

Pet Allergies

This type of allergy is common if you have house pets with furs such as dogs and cats. Pet fur in itself is not allergy-causing, but the dander (animal dead skin cells), saliva, and urine that are collected in it are usually the culprit.

Among common symptoms of pet allergies include runny nose or nasal congestion (allergic rhinitis), watery or itchy eyes, or skin rashes.

Drug Allergies

Drug allergies may occur regardless of whether the medication is in injectable or oral form. It is usually triggered by certain medications such as penicillin and other antibiotics, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), or chemotherapy drugs among a few.

People with drug allergies may experience symptoms such as skin rashes and itching, breathing problems or anaphylaxis in worst cases.

Insect Sting Allergies

Insects such as ants, bees, and wasps usually cause sting allergies. People with insect sting allergies may experience symptoms such as swelling, itching, and redness on the affected area. In worst cases, the person may experience difficulty in breathing or anaphylaxis and should be treated immediately.

Prevention and Treatment

If left untreated, allergies may lead to health complications such as severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), asthma, ear or lung infections, or sinusitis. Other preventive measures you can take to help manage allergies include the following:

Monitor possible allergic triggers. For example, if you notice your skin starts to itch when you eat eggs, take note of it in a diary.
Stay away from possible allergens. If you know you have pet allergies, best not to keep a pet at home to prevent allergic reactions.
Consult the best allergist in Germantown MD or elsewhere near you. He or she will help you manage your allergies and provide medications when necessary.

Why You Should Test Your Kids for Allergies

Does your child experience watery eyes or a runny nose after going outside, or skin rashes after eating a certain type of food? Your child could be suffering from allergies and you need to visit the allergist Manassas for allergy testing. If you notice of the below signs in your child visit the allergy clinic for allergy testing.

Cold like symptoms that don’t seem to go away
Hives and skin rashes
Asthma
Watery eyes and difficulty in breathing.

Make sure that you inform the allergist of all the symptoms you see in your child. It’s also essential to tell the allergist about allergy history in the family.

Allergy testing methods

Skin testing

Don’t wait for long before you go to the allergy clinic and consult. Make sure that the allergy doctor carries out an allergy test. There are two types of skin allergy test. The percutaneous in which the best allergist will prick the skin and introduce the allergens. The intradermal skin test is where the allergy specialist will use a needle to inject the allergens to the skin. The allergist will observe the reaction and from there determine what is affecting your child.

During the skin allergy testing, there is a risk of an allergic reaction due to the introduction of allergens in the body

Blood test

The allergist will draw blood from the child and test for allergies. With the blood test, there is no risk of an allergic reaction. Blood test help detect food allergies, and they can get the degree of the allergy.

Elimination method

If the allergy you are trying to manage is not due to nuts and shellfish, you can try the elimination method to know the allergen. Allergen from nuts and fish may be fatal and it’s best to have that tested at the allergy clinic.

Reason to test children for allergies

It’s important to test the child for allergies if they have symptoms that are triggered by food, dust, pollen or any other allergen. You need to test for allergies to ascertain the exact cause of the allergies. Below are conditions that require allergy testing

Inflamed nasal passage

If your child experiences recurrent colds and running nose, its best to test for allergies. Testing for allergies will guide you on the allergens you should avoid.

Asthma

You need to establish what triggers allergic asthma in your child. Avoiding the triggers will aid in the management of asthma.

Reaction to food

It’s important to ascertain the exact food that is causing your child to have allergies. Food allergies can lead to anaphylaxis and its therefore essential to ensure that you know the cause of the allergic reaction immediately.

Skin rashes and eczema

If your child has rashes that are triggered by an allergen you need to take the child for allergy testing. A bad case of eczema is an indication of an allergy, and it’s best to know what triggers it.

Testing for allergies will ensure that;

Your child condition doesn’t deteriorate
The child is able to live life normally
You are able to come up with home remedies to manage asthma and other life-threatening conditions
It’s cost-effective. You can avoid some medical situations if you understand what is affecting your child.

Managing your child’s allergy

Once you determine the cause of the allergy it’s crucial that you follow the instructions given by the allergy doctor. Below some tips to help manage the allergies;

Keep the pets away from the living and bedroom areas. Keep the pet clean. Anytime the child handles the petty ensure there is a change of clothes.
Wash the bedding often in hot water.
Avoid foods that will aggravate the allergies. Make sure that you confirm the ingredient in the food and ensure there are no allergens
If you are traveling pack food
When pollen levels are high remain indoors and get games, the child can play indoors.
Follow the prescription given by the allergy doctor. Also, follow the guideline on how to avoid allergens.
Explain to the child his allergy predicament and train them on how to avoid allergens. Make sure that the caregivers understand and know what to do in case of severe allergic reactions. Inform the teachers and any other person about the allergies.

It’s important to understand the allergies that affect you, child, because that will aid in the management of the allergy. Take your child to the best allergist and get the allergy test done. Once you understand the cause of the allergies come up with a plan on how to avoid the allergen. Consult the allergy physician on home remedies you can use to minimize the allergy effects.

What Questions Should You Expect When You Visit the Allergy Clinic for the First Time?

The first step in managing your child’s allergic reactions is finding an allergy specialist who can assess and determine the cause of the allergies. The allergy specialist will guide you on how best to avoid allergens and give you medications to keep allergies at bay. If you are visiting the allergist for the first time, it’s important to have detailed information on what triggers the allergies. In this article, we look at questions the allergy physician is likely to ask and questions you can ask the allergy specialist. Having the right information will aid in establishing the right allergy management plan for your child. Its good to be prepared with information about what is affecting your child, and for how long.

Questions the Allergist Will Ask During the First Appointment

Below are some of the questions the allergist will ask when you visit the allergy clinic.

What allergy symptoms is the child experiencing?

It’s good to have a list of the symptoms and signs you have noticed. You can note them down to avoid forgetting once you get to the allergy clinic. The allergy doctor may also need to know when the symptoms started and how you dealt with them.

What is the most probable cause of the allergies?

Keep a journal of the allergens that you think affect your child. If it’s a food allergy take note of the food and the symptoms that result after ingesting the food. It will be easier if you know the allergen affecting your child.

Do the allergens affect any other member of the family?

The allergist would like to know if the allergens affect any other member of the family. Take note if any other member is affected by the allergen. The allergist will also need to know if any member of the family has asthma or nasal allergies. In case any member of the family has asthma or nasal allergies the allergy doctor will carry out skin and blood test to ascertain whether your child has asthma or nasal allergies.

What medication has the child been using to relieve symptoms?

The allergy doctor will need to know the medications that you have been using to reduce the allergy symptoms. That will guide the allergy physician on how to treat your child

Questions to Ask the Allergy Doctor on the First Appointment

Below are some of the questions you should ask the allergy specialist.

What symptoms indicate that the child has an allergic reaction?

Each child will react differently to allergens. Below are some of the symptoms you expect to see in your child when they come into contact with an allergen;

Itching
Watery eyes
Swelling and difficult breathing
Vomiting and diarrhea

Children will respond differently to different allergens. Severe reaction to allergens is known as anaphylaxis, and it’s it can be fatal if not treated. The signs of anaphylaxis are

Lightheadedness

Difficulty in breathing and constriction of the airway

Drop in blood pressure

The above symptoms are an indication that your child has allergies.

How will the child be tested for allergies?

The most common method of testing for allergies is through the skin or blood test. The allergy physician will determine the best allergy testing method for your child.

How do I know the foods that cause allergies?

The allergy specialist will help you identify the foods that are causing allergies. The allergy specialist will guide you on what to look out in food labels to protect your child from allergens. The allergist will also help an allergy action plan to ensure that your child has a balanced diet in spite of the food allergies.

When should you use medication?

The allergist will guide you when you should use antihistamine and any other medication that has been prescribed. Antihistamines relieve mild symptoms while medications such as epinephrine are used when the child has severe allergies.

How Should you Protect your child against allergies?

The allergy doctor will guide on the best way to keep your child’s allergies at bay. Consult the allergy specialist on home remedies that will work for your child.

Prepare before you visit the allergy clinic, and that will ensure you get the right treatment and remedies to keep the allergies away. Follow the remedies and treatment given by the allergist Manassas diligently to ensure that allergies don’t hamper the life of your child.

Winter Allergy Tips

When winter begins it marks the end of seasonal allergies that are caused by pollen. However, that also signals the beginning of winter allergies. There are several allergens that may be found indoors that will cause allergies. It’s imperative to ensure that your indoors is sparkling clean through the winter to keep the allergens away from your home. If you suffer from indoor allergies it may be wise to visit the allergist Manassas before winter begins for preventive medication and advise on the best home remedies. In this article, we give tips to ease winter allergies.

Main Causes of Winter Allergies

When the temperatures begin dropping you will be forced to spend more time indoors. You will need to keep the house warm by shutting the windows and lighting a fire. That could result in allergens that trigger your allergies. Below are some of the allergens that cause winter allergies

Dust Mites

The bugs will be found in mattresses and beddings. Their droppings and remains cause an allergic reaction.

Mold

Mold results when the house is damp and humid. Areas such as bathrooms and basements are prone to mold. The mold spores trigger an allergic reaction

Animals

When the temperatures drop most people bring their pets indoors. Animal dander, saliva, and urine may cause allergies.

Symptoms of Winter Allergies

Coughing and sneezing
Dark circles around the eyes
Runny nose and watery eyes

It’s important to visit the allergy clinic so that the allergy doctor can tell whether you are suffering from an allergy, flu or a cold. Allergies will linger for weeks while flu will reduce with time. The allergy physician will carry out an allergy test to determine the kind of allergy you are suffering from and then give you medication. It’s also best to consult the allergy doctor on how to minimize the allergies.

Treatment for winter allergies will include the following

Antihistamines
Decongestants
Immunotherapy

It’s best to visit the allergy clinic for an allergy test before taking any medication. An allergy test will determine the exact cause of the allergies and that way you will know which allergen is affecting you and how to avoid it

Steps to Follow to Minimize Allergen in the Home

Keep the humidity in your House Low

Keep the humidity in the house below 50percent. Dust mites thrive in humid areas and you should ensure that the humidity of your home is below 50 percent. Invest in a dehumidifier to keep your humidity below 50%.

Remove wall to wall carpets

Carpets harbor dust mites and it’s best to remove them. Animal dander and mold will also hide in the carpets. Your house may become damp because of the carpet and that will encourage mold and dust mites. Remove the carpets and rugs and that will reduce the chances of the allergen.

Keep Pets out of the house

If you have a pet reduce contact with the pet. Make sure the pet is clean and have an area far from the living and bedroom where the pet can stay. Bathe the pet as often as possible and that will minimize dander. Have a change of clothes if you play with a pet.

Clean your beddings in hot water

Soak the bedding in hot water at least once a week to help reduce dust mites. Make sure that pillows and mattress have covers that allow dust mites to pass through. Don’t put pillows and comforters on the floor because that will attract more dust mites.

Clean the floor of your house regularly

Mop the floor regularly to ensure its clean. Make sure that your floor is dry and not damp. Keep your bathroom and kitchen dry. Ensure there is good insulation to help reduce mold.

If you Suffer from allergies get help in cleaning

If you are the one suffering from allergies seek help in vacuum cleaning. While the house is being cleaned leave the house to avoid coming contact with the allergens.

Visit the allergy clinic and get a diagnosis. That way you will be able to control the allergen that is affecting you. Consult the allergy specialist on the home remedies you should use to control the symptoms of the allergies. If you suffer from severe winter allergies make sure you see the allergy doctor before the season begins.

Tips to Keep Your Home Allergen Free

If you suffer from allergies the environment, you live plays a major role and it’s crucial to ensure that it doesn’t aggravate your allergies. Even with the best treatment plan if the environment you live in is not conducive that will make your allergies worse. It’s therefore important to ensure that your home is allergen free. After visiting the allergy doctor ensure that your home is not a source of allergens. In this article, we give you tips to help you keep your home free of allergens. It’s best to identify the allergens and then work with your allergy physician on how to you can eliminate allergens. Make sure you follow the care tips given by the allergy specialist to keep allergies at bay.

Tips to Keep Your Home Allergen Free

Bedroom

You spend quite a number of hours in the bedroom and it’s important to ensure there are no allergy-proof your bedroom and the whole house. Below steps to follow to ensure there are no allergens;

Invest in dust mite proof covers for your pillows, mattresses, and blankets. Instead of using woolen bedding, replace them with synthetic because it will not harbor dust mites. Wash the bedding with hot water often.
Remove the carpet and use tiles or hardwood. Carpets harbor dust mites. If you have to use a carpet, make sure its low pressure and make sure its vacuumed every week.
Use curtains that you can wash often. Replace blinds with curtains that you can wash
Close windows especially during the high pollen season. Invest in the air conditioner. Make sure the window frame and sills don’t have mold.
Choose chair and furniture that is easy to clean. Upholstered furniture will attract dirt
Ensure there is no clutter in the bedroom. Remove items that you don’t need. Don’t store books, magazines, and ornaments in the bedroom. Have a different room for children toys.
Keep pets out of the bedroom. Make sure they are clean
Use an air filter to ensure you get clean air. Make sure that there is a circulation of clean air when you are sleeping

Living Room

The living room is an area where you spend a considerable amount of time. Below tips to keep your living room allergen free;
Ensure the floor is made of wood or tiles. If your floor mats and rugs, make sure that you clean them regularly.
Use furniture made of leather, wood, plastic or metal because it will not harbor dust
Use curtains that you can clean
Move potted plants from the living room.
Avoid fireplaces that use wood or stoves because the smoke will cause allergies. You can use natural gas for your fireplace

Kitchen

Make sure that exhaust fan is installed to remove fumes and reduce moisture.
Clean the dishes on a daily basis to ensure there is no mold growth
Wipe away excess moisture from the fridge to ensure there is no moisture which may lead to mold growth. Ensure that moldy rubber seals are cleaned regularly
Ensure there no leaks under the kitchen sink. Clean cabinets and countertops often.
Use a garbage can that has a lid to throw food waste. Keep the kitchen free of cockroaches by ensuring there are no food particles lying around.

Bathroom

Use a fan to reduce moisture in the bathroom
Avoid wallpaper because they will be a source of Mold
Leave the bathtub dry and ensure there are no leaks in the bathroom

Basement

Remove carpets that are moldy. Make sure that any leaks in the bathroom are repaired
Invest in a dehumidifier for your basement to keep the air fresh
Store items in plastic bags and bins

Keeping the House Allergen Free

Ensure that you maintain the house at the right temperature. Very hot and humid houses will have dust mites and Mold.

Make sure there are a pest in the house such as cockroaches and mites

Invest in air conditioners to keep Mold away

Have the house cleaned often.

Don’t allow smoking in the house

The above simple tips will make your house allergen free. It’s best to visit the allergy clinic to determine what causes your allergies and that way you will be able to avoid the allergen and reduce the allergy reaction. In case of any severe allergies make sure that you seek treatment from the allergist Manassas.

Why Your Allergies are not Improving

You have been following an allergy prevention home remedy but there are no improvements. You have been to the allergist Manassas but there are no improvements. In this article, we tell you reasons why your allergies are not improving. It’s important to ensure that you visit the allergy clinic for a check to determine what is causing your allergies to become worse.

Reasons Why Your Allergies are not Improving

Exposure to new allergens

Allergen makes your immune system to overreact and cause symptoms such as running nose, congestion, itchy eyes, and a running nose. A new allergen may cause your allergen to become worse and it’s important that you are keen when your allergies are worse. That will help you establish the new allergen you are allergic to and you can avoid it. If the allergic reaction cannot be controlled by home remedies visit the allergy doctor and get medication. Keep note of when the symptoms become

Wrong over the counter medication

Most people with allergies opt for over the medication. It’s important that before you take any medications to treat the allergies that you establish the allergens. Visit the allergy clinic and let the allergy physician carry out an allergy test to determine the allergen affecting you. Once the test is carried out then the allergy specialist will give you medication.

Failure to take Medication

Most people fail to take medication at all. It’s important that you take the allergy medication as prescribed by the allergy physician. Some of the allergy medication needs to be taken before the allergy season starts. Before you stop taking medication to consult the allergy specialist on the alternative medication you can use.

A new Pet in the House

If you have a pet allergy and you have a new pet that could be the reason your allergies have not improved. Keep your pets out of the bedroom and living room. Make sure the pets are always clean. If keeping the pet clean and in separate rooms doesn’t help.

You can’t avoid allergens

It may be hard to avoid some allergens and that will require medication to keep the allergies at bay. If you work in an environment where there are allergens it may be hard to avoid them. It’s important to try and limit exposure to allergens but uses medication as prescribed. You can limit exposure to allergens by

Changing the home heating and cooling system

Keep the doors and windows closed when the pollen level is high

Avoid being outdoors when its windy and dry

Keep the air conditioner in your home and car on

Allergy-proof your beddings and living room items

Keep pets away from the furniture

Keep your house clean by vacuuming it often

Relocating to a New Area

Change of environment could make your allergies worse. A change of job that requires you to commute to far places could be exposing you to new allergens. Visit the allergy specialist and get advice on how to counter the new allergens. New cleaning products could be the cause of new allergic reaction.

New habits

If you suffer from allergies and you pick a new habit it may be the reason your allergies are not improving. If you have started smoking or partying it may be the reason your allergies are improving.

Wrong Diagnosis

If you have allergies it’s important to ensure that you visit the top-rated allergy clinic for a diagnosis. A wrong diagnosis will make your allergies worse. if your allergy has been diagnosed and the allergies are not getting better make sure you visit the best allergy specialist for the right diagnosis.

Other Physical Issues

Other medical conditions that may limit you from taking medication. Medications that you are taking to treat other diseases may prohibit you from taking allergy treatment. People with high blood are not allowed to take decongestants because that can affect the pressure. Visit the best allergist and let the doctor advise you on how to deal with allergens.

If you notice you that your allergies are improving visit the allergy clinic for an allergy test to determine what is causing the allergy to deteriorate. Follow the home remedy you have prescribed by the allergy physician.

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.