The American College of Asthma, Allergy & Immunology reports that allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the United States, affecting more than 50 million people. Allergies are common among all age groups, and symptoms can range from mild irritation to a life-threatening reaction (anaphylaxis) that requires emergency care.Our team of specialists at MyDoc Urgent Care offers top-level medical services from state-of-the-art facilities in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Forest Hills, East Meadow, and Little Neck, New York. We’re often tasked with diagnosing and treating allergies and their symptoms, ranging from a sniffly nose to an itchy skin rash to wheezing.MyDoc prides itself on providing outstanding, comprehensive care in a family-friendly environment for people of all ages. Read more from our team about taking charge of allergies now and throughout the coming year.

Understanding allergies

Allergies occur when your immune system mistakes a substance (allergen) for a toxin. In response, your body produces antibodies to find and remove the perceived invader, activating the release of histamines that cause runny nose, sneezing, and other allergy symptoms. Common allergy triggers include:

• Pollen from trees, grasses, or weeds
• Peanuts, wheat, dairy, and other foods
• Dust mites
• Medication
• Animal dander
• Venom from wasps, bees, and other stinging insects
• Mold
• Poison ivy
• Household cleaning products
• Workplace chemicals
• Perfumes, air fresheners, and other fragrances
• Hair and skincare products
• Latex

You may have one or numerous allergy triggers, develop new allergies at any age, or experience worsening symptoms with repeat exposure to the allergen.

How do I know it’s allergies?

Allergy symptoms can vary by type. For instance, a medication allergy may cause an itchy, hive-like rash, while a mold allergy may cause wheezing and other respiratory symptoms. Common allergy symptoms according to type include:

Pollen

Pollen allergies, also called hay fever, typically produce sneezing, nasal congestion, and red, itchy, or watery eyes. A pollen allergy may also trigger allergy-induced asthma, causing symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing.

Dust mites

Other than dust, these tiny organisms live in carpeting, mattresses, stuffed animals, and other household items. The symptoms are like those produced by a pollen allergy, but tend to occur year-round rather than seasonally.

Animal dander

Pet allergies are caused by proteins secreted through saliva or skin cells (dander) the animal sheds. Symptoms include nasal congestion, itchy hives, cough, and excessive swelling around the eyes. Prolonged exposure can cause an asthma-type reaction that may include wheezing and difficulty breathing.

Food allergy

Food allergy symptoms generally occur within a few minutes of ingesting the product and can include abdominal pain, lips, tongue, or throat swelling, and tingling or metallic taste in the mouth. Food allergies can also cause difficulty breathing, severe drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness, and other symptoms of anaphylaxis.

Controlling allergies

Allergy treatment at MyDoc Urgent Care starts with an evaluation and in-office allergy and asthma testing to identify your specific allergen(s) and allergic response. Our team also provides practical tips for avoiding allergy triggers at home or work and creates an individualized treatment strategy that controls allergies year-round. Your treatment plan may include the following:

• Allergy medication to control symptoms
• An inhaler for asthma
• Immunotherapy
• An epinephrine auto injector for emergencies (anaphylaxis)

Though not technically a cure, immunotherapy provides long-term allergy relief by desensitizing your immune system to specific allergens. These treatments benefit individuals who cannot easily avoid their allergy triggers or don’t experience adequate control with oral medications. Don’t spend another season struggling with allergies. Instead, contact MyDoc Urgent Care today for treatment that tackles your allergies head-on. Call to schedule a same-day doctor visit, request an appointment online, or take advantage of our immediate care services.