Allergies: Symptoms, Triggers, and Treatment
Allergies are an abnormal reaction by a person’s immune system to a certain substance that does not cause any reaction in others. The human body produces antibodies, and when a person has allergies the body’s immune system identifies a normally nontoxic substance as a harmful invader and reacts accordingly. The reactions can vary from mild itchiness and rash to life-threatening anaphylactic shock.
There are many different types of allergens and each can cause a reaction in its own way. The type of reaction that occurs depends on the substance and the manner it was introduced to the body.
- Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, can cause an itchy, runny nose; sneezing; and watery, red eyes.
- If a person has a shellfish allergy and they pick up a shrimp, they may get a blister. If they were to consume it, their airway would swell to the point they could not breathe and would require a very hasty trip to the emergency room, unless they carry an EpiPen.
- A food allergy causes an immediate tingling of the lips and mouth; followed by swelling around the eyes, lips, and tongue; hives; and possibly anaphylaxis, necessitating an EpiPen to combat the anaphylaxis.
- People who are allergic to insect stings can die. They may manifest a large swelling at the site of the sting, along with itching, hives all about the body, coughing, tightness in the chest, and wheezing breath, as well as anaphylaxis shock.
- People who have allergies to drugs may exhibit typical signs and symptoms of the other allergies mentioned above. Drug allergies also can be fatal if not caught and given proper medical attention in time.
Anaphylaxis, the worst reaction to an allergy, can cause a person to go into shock. Signs of anaphylaxis are a drop in blood pressure, drastic shortness of breath, weak pulse, nausea, vomiting, and loss of consciousness. If not treated immediately, anaphylaxis can lead to death.
Ways to Avoid an Allergic Reaction
Avoid known triggers. That is, don’t expose yourself to substances that you know will cause an allergic reaction. If someone is allergic to grass, don’t go outside and roll around in it. Keep a journal or diary, especially if it seems there might be more than one allergen the body reacts to. Keeping a journal can make all the difference in learning as much as possible about what sets off a reaction. Record incidentals so the doctor can review your notes to see if there may be more than one allergy at work.
Allergy Treatment Options
- Precision Medicine
- Functional & Integrative Medicine
- ALCAT Food Sensitivity Training
- NAET® (Allergy Elimination Technique)
- Frequency-Specific Microcurrent (FSM)
We Are Here to Help You!
On behalf of the Natural Balance team, we hope you have found this information helpful and we look forward to working with you.
If you are experiencing an allergic reaction or want to learn more about allergies, call Natural Balance Wellness Medical Center at (734) 929-2696 to schedule a personalized assessment and treatment plan unique to you and your needs, or book an appointment online.
