Allergies are a common condition affecting people of all ages. An allergy is an unusually strong immune response to a substance that may be harmless to other people. When the material is inhaled, touched, eaten, or comes in contact with the body of someone allergic, they experience symptoms that can range from mild to life-threatening. To help you understand what allergies are, here’s more information about them and how a doctor can help you find relief.

Substances That Can Cause Allergies

There's a wide range of materials that can cause an allergic reaction in people sensitive to them, including food. Some of the most common allergens include pet dander, pollen, medications, nuts, seafood, soy, and milk. People can even be allergic to red meat and sunlight.

Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction

The most noticeable type of reaction to an allergen is swelling. This can occur in the eyes, nose, throat, tongue, skin, and occasionally other areas. When the swelling affects the airway, the person experiencing the reaction may have difficulty breathing, which can happen to those with asthma. Anaphylaxis is also common during allergic reactions to peanuts and bee stings. For less severe reactions, symptoms can include itching, sneezing, a runny nose, and dry or watery eyes.

Allergy Treatment

A doctor can test your skin or blood to confirm whether you have an allergy. This helps them determine the severity of your allergy and how to treat it. In all cases, avoiding your allergen is the first line of defense against a reaction.

You may also be prescribed allergy medication to help you cope with mild symptoms of allergens you can't avoid, such as dust and pollen. For those with asthma, doctors can prescribe emergency injections and inhaler medications to reduce attacks.

If you need allergy care, schedule a visit with a doctor at Patients First Medical Clinic in Anchorage, AK. This health clinic offers both walk-in and emergency service to treat patients with a variety of needs. Their board-certified Doctors of Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Family Nurse Practitioners provide customized care to keep everyone in the family healthy. Find out more about their practice online, or call (907) 333-7425 to schedule an appointment.