Questions and Answers

If you are atopic or have a predisposition toward developing allergic reactions, your body may produce an antibody called Immunoglobulin E (IgE) that is specific to what causes your allergic reactions. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is a protective mechanism that is produced when you are exposed to a substance that your body views as a threat. […] Read More

A common cold is usually associated with a variety of symptoms in addition to a runny nose: cough, body aches, fatigue, and occasional yellow nasal discharge. All of these symptoms typically resolve in one to two weeks. Allergies occur immediately after contact with the allergens that provoke them. They’re associated with clear discharge from the […] Read More

Allergies cannot be cured, so treatment generally involves one or more of the following strategies to control or prevent allergic reactions: Dust mites: Use sheets, pillowcases, and mattress covers that are impermeable to dust mite allergens; regularly wash linens in hot water and vacuum the bed frame weekly. Cockroaches: Seal cracks in the floor and […] Read More

Lab tests an allergist may order during diagnosis may include: Allergen skin test: In this test, the allergist introduces tiny amounts of an allergen under the patient’s skin with a pin-prick. In an allergic patient, the allergen will produce a swollen itchy patch surrounded by an area of redness. Usually, this office procedure can test […] Read More

Allergens are found in indoor and outdoor environments and may come from plants, food, pets, or even household products. Common allergens include: Pollen from grass, weeds, and trees produces hay fever, a common seasonal epidemic. Dust mites, or microscopic organisms that live in dust and in the fibers of upholstered furniture, rugs, pillows, and mattresses. […] Read More

For most people, allergy symptoms are mild or moderate, but for some hyperallergic people, an allergic reaction can be life-threatening. Anaphylaxis is a runaway allergic reaction that involves the whole body. Anaphylaxis can cause extreme swelling in the lungs and airways that can make breathing or swallowing difficult, as well as severe abdominal pain, cramps, […] Read More

In an allergic reaction, the immune system responds to the allergen by producing a highly specific antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE). While everyone has IgE antibodies, a person who is allergic has an overabundance of them. When the IgE antibodies attack the allergens, they trigger mast cells, or defensive white blood cells, to release histamine […] Read More

About 2 million Americans have allergies to the venom of stinging bugs. If you’re allergic to bee stings, you may also be allergic to yellow jackets, wasps, and hornets. Many of these people are at risk for life-threatening allergic reactions. Read More

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