Allergy

A mild allergic reaction may cause one or more of these symptoms at the site of the sting: Pain; Redness; Pimple-like spots; Mild to moderate swelling; Warmth; Itching. Severe allergic reactions (also called anaphylactic reactions) are not that common. But when they happen, they’re emergencies. Symptoms can include: Troubled breathing; Hives that appear as a […] Read More

They may be riskier for people with heart or lung disease, or for those who take certain medications. Tell your allergist about your health and any medicines you take, so you can decide if allergy shots are right for you. Read More

It’s a faster way to get to a maintenance dose, but it’s also riskier. During the first part of the treatment, you get doses of the allergen every day instead of every few days. Your doctor will check on you closely, in case you have a bad reaction. In some cases, you may get medicine […] Read More

A lot depends on how many things you’re allergic to and how severe your symptoms are. Generally, allergy shots work for allergies to bee stings, pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander. There’s no proof that they work for food, drug, or latex allergies. Read More

Usually, you’ll stay at the doctor’s office for about 30 minutes after you get an allergy shot. That’s to make sure you don’t get side effects like itchy eyes, shortness of breath, a runny nose, or a tight throat. If you get these symptoms after you leave, go back to your doctor’s office or to […] Read More

You may want to avoid exercise or doing anything strenuous for 2 hours before and after your appointment. That’s because exercise boosts blood flow to the tissues and may cause the allergens to spread throughout your body faster. It’s not likely to cause a serious problem, but it’s best to be safe. Tell your doctor […] Read More

Allergy shots help your body get used to allergens, the things that trigger an allergic reaction. They aren’t a cure, but in time, your symptoms will get better, and you may not have symptoms as often. You may want to consider allergy shots, also called immunotherapy, if you have symptoms for more than 3 months […] Read More

Allergy shots may help. They’re about 97% effective. Allergy shots for insect stings put tiny amounts of the allergen (you may hear it called insect venom) into your body over time. Your body gets used to the allergen, and if you get stung again, you won’t have such a bad reaction. Your doctor will first […] Read More

Urticaria is a medical term for hives, a common allergic reaction that affects about 20% of people at some point in their lives. There are many triggers for hives, but the symptoms include itchy patches of skin that become swollen, red welts. Itching can be mild to severe and may be made worse by scratching, […] Read More

Allergies are diagnosed with skin tests and blood tests. Skin testing is considered the most accurate, but both skin and blood testing can detect a person’s sensitivity to common allergens such as pollen, mold, dust mites, medicines, foods, latex, or other substances. Skin testing is usually preferred, but allergy blood tests may be performed if […] Read More