Allergies are disorders of the immune system that cause a variety of symptoms such as a runny nose, watery and itchy eyes, and sneezing. Though airborne particles, like pollen and dust, are largely to blame, allergic reactions can also be attributed to dietary and environmental factors. If you are suffering from these symptoms, allergy immunology is a worthwhile option to consider.

What Causes Allergies?

Genetics

Host-dependent allergies occur when an individual is genetically predisposed, whether through a congenital deficiency or inherited disease. Though allergies are commonly passed down from parent to offspring, kids do not always develop the same type and, in some cases, their allergy is more severe.

Environmental 

An allergy that is environmentally dependent is triggered when an individual comes into contact with an airborne allergen, pollution, an infectious disease, or makes a dietary change. These tend to be more common in highly industrialized populations; on the national level, people are more likely to suffer the condition if they reside in an urban area as opposed to a rural one.

Am I Allergic?

Since maladies often share symptoms, allergy immunology experts first consider other possibilities before diagnosing a patient as allergic. To determine the cause, allergy immunology experts perform a puncture test, whereby minimal quantities of possible allergens are introduced to the patient through a quick pinprick. If an inflammatory reaction occurs, the patient is diagnosed as allergic.

If you are a resident of Long Island, NYC, or the Tri-State Area, and would like to consult with an allergy immunology expert, Linchitz Medical Wellness offers an expert health care team and a state-of-the-art facility. They provide patients with an array of medical health services ranging from insulin potentiation to oncology to regenerative medicine. Visit their website or call (516) 759-4200 to schedule a consultation today.