Allergies develop when your immune system responds to a benign substance as if it’s something that needs to be eliminated. Mounting the attack releases antibodies that create inflammation in your body and can cause an array of unsettling and uncomfortable symptoms.
Even if you never thought of yourself as being allergic to anything, you could have mild or moderate symptoms triggered by common allergens. Our team at the Low Testosterone & Weight Loss Center tests for allergies at our Allen, Texas, office. Our expert providers then recommend lifestyle changes or medications to keep you comfortable.
Do you have allergies? Read on to find out more about the most common allergens and the symptoms they can cause.
An allergic reaction to pollen is commonly referred to as “hayfever.” Pollen is a yellowish powder produced by plants as part of their reproductive cycle. This fine powder is spread by the wind, birds, bees, and other animals to help fertilize plants, trees, and flowers.
You may be allergic to pollen if you find yourself with mild to severe symptoms during springtime and summer when pollen production is at its peak. Pollen allergies provoke symptoms such as:
If you have pollen allergies, check the daily pollen count in your area. Your local weather station will often provide this information.
If you start to sneeze, cough, or have watery eyes after petting a dog or cat, you may be allergic to the flakes of skin — known as dander — that they shed. As with all allergies, pet dander sensitivities can develop over time or if your immune system weakens. You may also have allergic reactions to other peoples’ pets but not notice reactions to your own.
Dust allergies are caused by dust mites, which are tiny organisms that you can’t see. Dust mites live off of dust in your home, as well as flakes of old skin that lodge into your mattress and other materials. In addition to sneezing, wheezing, and watery eyes, you might experience shortness of breath.
Mold is almost ubiquitous in buildings, including homes and offices. Mold grows anywhere water is present, including bathrooms and kitchens.
If you have mold allergies, you may need to hire professionals to remove mold from your home or office. Mold allergies can also trigger asthma.
Contact dermatitis is a type of allergy that develops when your skin is exposed to materials that trigger a reaction. If you itch when you wear a wool sweater, you may have a sensitivity or allergy to wool. Many people can’t wear latex gloves because of latex allergies. Symptoms of contact dermatitis include:
You may also have allergic reactions to the foods you eat and even to the medications you take. Symptoms can include upset stomach and diarrhea. When you come for allergy testing, we conduct comprehensive exams to identify all of your allergens. We may conduct both skin tests and blood tests for optimal results.
If you suspect you have allergies, call us at 469-912-2113 or use our online form.
