Symptoms of Allergic Reactions And How to Deal With Them

Allergic reactions can vary widely from person to person and even over a person’s own life. However, there are commonalities among allergic reactions. Here’s more on allergy symptoms and how to deal with them.

The Sources of Allergic Reactions

People with allergies have overactive immune systems. When they contact, ingest, or inhale a particular substance, such as mold, peanuts, or animal dander, their bodies produce histamines, which trigger a number of somatic symptoms.

Symptoms may be mild, moderate, severe, or even life-threatening. The most dangerous of symptoms is called anaphylaxis, well-known as the respiratory reaction produced by insect stings and some food allergies.

In general, allergies take the form of:

• Seasonal hay fever, or allergic rhinitis – sneezing, congestion, and watery, itchy eyes
• Asthma – constricted airway, coughing and wheezing
• Eczema – red, rough, and itchy skin
• Hives – red, raised, itchy skin bumps caused by food allergies, skin contact with allergy triggers, and even stress
• Atopic dermatitis – pink, irritated, and itchy skin caused by touching soaps, fabrics, such as wool, and other irritants

How To Deal With Allergic Reactions

Treatment for allergic reactions depends on how serious they are. The occasional skin rash or short episode of sneezing and watery eyes may need no medical intervention besides taking an occasional over-the-counter antihistamine.

However, persistent, life-interfering, or life-threatening allergic triggers must be identified and managed by an experienced board-certified allergist. Once the doctor and patient know what provokes allergic reactions, the triggers can–and should be– avoided as much as possible.

Avoidance takes vigilance. For instance, people with food allergies should be aware of recipes and processed food ingredients. Individuals with pet allergies can find ways to keep their homes free of hair and dander. The best way to control reactions is simply to avoid contact with triggers.

There is a myriad of over-the-counter topical and oral medications and nasal sprays for skin allergies and seasonal hay fever. Your allergist will advise you on which ones are best for you based on the nature and severity of your allergy.

Each allergy patient is different, so treatment plans, including prescription inhalers for asthma and immunotherapy for skin and seasonal allergies, must be individualized and occasionally updated, as a patient’s symptoms, overall health, age, and living conditions change with time.

For the worst allergic reaction–anaphylaxis – you should:

• Call 911 immediately if respiration is labored or ceases altogether
• Carry an epinephrine pen (a prescription medication) at all times to deliver medication that works quickly to open tight airways
• Remain as calm as possible during an allergy attack
• Educate your family and friends on your allergy and how to use an epinephrine pen

Premier Allergy Treatment in Naperville, Elmhurst, Plainfield, and Downers Grove, Illinois

At Oak Brook Allergists, our three board-certified physicians help individuals of all ages identify allergic triggers and how to treat them. They emphasize patient education, so people can take control of their symptoms and feel better no matter the situation or season of the year.

To learn more about how to stay on top of your allergies or to explore allergy testing, please contact us at (630) 574-0460, or request an appointment by completing our online request form. We have offices in Naperville, Elmhurst, Plainfield, and Downers Grove, Illinois.