Know the Signs of Allergies and When to Seek Care

Sometimes, things that should be enjoyable — like being outdoors, yummy food, or snuggling our pets — can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like itchy eyes or a scratchy throat. This is known as an allergic reaction. AHN allergy and immunology experts are here to answer common questions to help you understand the signs of allergies, manage your symptoms, and know when to seek care to keep them under control.

Allergy FAQs

Q: What are allergies?

A: Thomas Makin, MD, allergy and immunology specialist at AHN Medicine Institute says allergic reactions happen when our immune systems make a mistake. Our body incorrectly recognizes something harmless, like pollen, as a threat. Once that switch is turned on, our body has an allergic reaction every time we are exposed to it.

Q: What triggers an allergy?

A: Allergies are very common. Many people experience allergic reactions to common things you may be exposed to every single day, both indoors and outdoors, like:

• Certain foods
• Medications
• Insect stings
• Tree, grass, and weed pollen
• Indoor dust and mold
• Dander and hair from household pets

These normally harmless substances that trigger the immune system to overreact are called allergens.

Q: What are common allergy symptoms?

A: Different types of allergies can lead to different symptoms, but you should be aware of common signs like: •

• Sneezing or a runny nose
• Itchy eyes, nose, ears or throat
• Watery or swollen eyes
• Dry cough or wheezing
• Red, itchy, dry skin or hives
• Swelling or tingling of the tongue, throat, or lips
• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, or diarrhea

Q: How do I know if I have allergies or if I am sick?

A: Some allergy symptoms may feel like you have a cold or the flu. You may be experiencing an infection, not allergies, and should go to your doctor or urgent care if:

• Only one of your eyes is producing a thick, yellow substance. Allergies will most likely affect both of your eyes.
• You have body aches, chills, or a fever. Allergies do not cause a fever.
• You have a thick, yellow mucus coming from your nose. Allergies will produce a clear, runny mucus.
• You have persistent facial pain or pressure. Allergies can cause congestion but not facial pain.
• Your symptoms persist even after you are no longer in contact with the allergen, or your symptoms do not go away in 7 – 10 days, like a common cold. Allergy symptoms should improve by avoiding exposure to the allergen.

Q: What is anaphylaxis and what are the symptoms?

A: Allergies to certain foods, medications, and insect stings can lead to a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• Severe swelling of the tongue or throat
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Low blood pressure or dizziness
• Rapid pulse
• Intense anxiety or a feeling of “doom”
• Widespread hives or severe itching
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or cramping

Anaphylaxis happens very quickly. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, you should call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

An injection of epinephrine, known as an EpiPen^®, should be given immediately in the case of anaphylaxis. Specialists at AHN can talk with you about your allergies and prescribe an EpiPen if necessary.

Q: When should I see a doctor for my allergies?

A: If over-the-counter medications have not worked and your allergies start interfering with your daily life — like your ability to sleep, go to work, or enjoy time outdoors — it may be time to visit AHN allergy and immunology specialists.

There are many options to help manage common allergies. Specialists at AHN can address immediate symptoms and help provide long-term relief.

Dr. Makin says managing allergy symptoms is especially important for people with asthma to maintain good breathing and avoid emergency room visits.

If you ever experience symptoms like severe wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath due to allergies or asthma, you should go to your nearest emergency room.

Q: How do I know what I am allergic to?

A: Dr. Makin says identifying patterns can help signal allergies. For example, if your nose gets runny every year in the springtime, that’s most likely allergies. Allergy testing at AHN can also identify triggers.

AHN offers skin tests for diagnosing allergies. This involves placing tiny amounts of a substance, like pollen or dander, onto the skin’s surface with a small skin prick.

After patients wait 15 minutes, the provider reads the tests. A small, red, itchy bump will appear at a test site if an allergy is present.

Q: What are the best ways to relieve allergy symptoms?

A: Physicians at AHN start by recommending you try to avoid the things causing your allergic reactions. They may also suggest over-the-counter medications, like nasal sprays or antihistamines, which help treat itchiness, sneezing, and congestion.

If these medications do not control your symptoms, or you have severe allergies or asthma, your care team at AHN may recommend additional treatment options like inhalers, allergy shots, biologics, or other medications.

Keep your allergies under control

Allergy and immunology specialists at AHN Medicine Institute are here to help control your allergies so they don’t keep you down. They’ll help you identify allergy triggers and find treatments that make living with an allergy easier. To make an appointment, call (412) DOCTORS or schedule online.