Allergy Symptoms

Allergy symptoms can vary depending on the type of allergy and the individual’s sensitivity. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Nasal congestion
  • Sneezing
  • Runny nose
  • Itchy eyes and throat
  • Watery eyes
  • Postnasal drip
  • Redness, swelling, and itchiness of the skin
  • Hives
  • Rash
  • Peeling or flaking skin
  • Stomach cramps
  • Vomiting
  • Wheezing
  • Cough
  • Hoarseness
  • Swelling of the tongue
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Weak pulse
  • Pale skin
  • Dizziness

Symptoms of severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, can include:

  • Swelling in the throat
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Abdominal pain
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Rapid pulse
  • Heart palpitations
  • Inflammation of the face and eyes
  • Mental confusion

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Allergy Testing

Allergy testing is the most effective way to determine the cause of your allergy symptoms. The two most common types of allergy tests are skin prick tests and blood tests. Skin prick tests involve placing a small drop of an allergen extract on your skin and then pricking the skin underneath to allow the allergen to enter your bloodstream. Blood tests measure the amount of an allergen-specific antibody, called immunoglobulin E (IgE), in your blood.

There are three main types of allergy treatment:

  • Prevention: The most effective way to treat allergies is to avoid the triggers that cause your symptoms. This may involve keeping your home clean and free of allergens, using a HEPA air filtration system, and avoiding smoking and pets.
  • Medications: There are a variety of medications available to treat allergy symptoms, including antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroids. Antihistamines block the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. Decongestants help to open up the airways and improve breathing. Nasal corticosteroids reduce inflammation in the nose.
  • Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, involves gradually exposing your body to small amounts of the allergens that trigger your symptoms. This helps your body build up a tolerance to the allergens and reduce your reaction to them.

If you have allergies, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and discuss your treatment options.

Medications

There are a variety of medications available to treat allergy symptoms, including:

  • Antihistamines: Reduce or block histamines, chemicals produced by the immune system that are responsible for many common allergy symptoms.
  • Decongestants: Shrink swollen blood vessels and tissues that line the nose.
  • Nasal corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation of the nasal lining.
  • Allergy eye drops: Relieve the symptoms of eye allergies.
  • Mast cell inhibitors: Prevent allergy symptoms such as runny nose or itchy, watery eyes from occurring.

If medications are not effective, immunotherapy may be an option. Immunotherapy is a method of building tolerance to an allergen by introducing it to the body in small doses over a period of time. It is usually given as injections (allergy shots), but can also be taken orally.

Allergy shots:

  • Involve a small amount of the allergen being injected into the upper arm once or twice a week for a few months. The dosage is gradually increased at each visit.
  • The goal is to get your body used to the allergen slowly, with the hopes that you will develop an immunity or tolerance to the allergen.
  • There are some risks involved with allergy shots, such as swelling, redness, sneezing, nasal congestion, hives, wheezing, chest-tightness, and anaphylaxis.

Allergy drops:

  • Are a more convenient option for many patients because they can be safely administered at home rather than at the doctor’s office.
  • The dose varies by patient depending on several factors, including severity of allergies and sensitivity to allergy drop dosages.
  • There are possible risks and side effects, such as localized itching in the mouth and intestinal discomfort, which often goes away after several weeks.

Which treatment option is right for you depends on the severity of your allergies, your response to medications, and your lifestyle. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment options for you.