Environmental Allergies
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Sunshine Allergy and Asthma
Allergists & Asthma Specialists located in North Port, FL
More than 50 million people in America today have allergies, and environmental allergies like pollen and pet dander are among the most common culprits. At Sunshine Allergy and Asthma, experienced allergist Nilamben Patel, DO, FAAAAI, can pinpoint which environmental allergens are causing your symptoms. She offers customized allergy shots and other treatments to end hay fever and other allergies for good. Book an appointment by calling the North Port, Florida, office or using the online scheduling link.
Environmental Allergies Q & A
What are environmental allergies?
An environmental allergy is an allergic reaction to a typically harmless trigger in your environment. When you have an environmental allergy, your immune system mistakenly perceives substances like pollen as a danger to your health.
In response to the perceived danger, your immune system produces antibodies, which release the chemicals that trigger your allergic symptoms like chronic sinus problems and hay fever.
Because environmental allergies involve the immune system, they’re sometimes confused with immune system disorders. Immune system disorders are different; they involve your body’s immune system attacking your own healthy tissue.
In some cases, environmental allergies, which can include eczema, might actually trigger autoimmune disorders.
What are common environmental allergies?
The most common environmental allergies include:
- Pollen — tree, grass, and weed
- Dust mites
- Pet dander
- Mold spores
- Cockroaches
These allergens affect millions of people, both children and adults. In fact, environmental allergies are among the most common reasons for missed school and work in the United States.
What are the symptoms of environmental allergies?
Environmental allergies can trigger a lot of discomfort, with common symptoms including:
- Sneezing
- Itchy eyes
- Watery eyes
- Stuffy nose
- Runny nose
- Coughing
Some people also develop dark undereye circles due to chronic environmental allergies.
How are environmental allergies diagnosed?
Allergy testing is the most effective way to determine what kind of environmental allergies you have. At Sunshine Allergy and Asthma, Dr. Patel may recommend a skin pinprick test, an injection test, or a blood test based on your suspected allergies.
In many cases, people with allergies also have asthma. If you have asthma symptoms, you may need breathing tests and possibly lung inflammation tests.
How are environmental allergies treated?
The treatment for environmental allergies depends on your particular allergy and the types and severity of your symptoms. For allergies that cause only mild, occasional symptoms, oral antihistamines may be adequate.
If your allergies cause persistent issues and oral medication isn’t helpful, allergy shots can be beneficial. Dr. Patel offers a variety of personalized allergy shot protocols, including rapid and cluster options that relieve your symptoms in as little as a few weeks.
Sunshine Allergy and Asthma can find the cause of your allergies and help you live without the sneezing, watery eyes, and other awful issues long term. Call the office or click the online appointment maker for an appointment.
