How Do I Know if I Have an Illness or an Allergy?

An illness, also referred to as a disease, is a condition that disrupts the body’s normal functioning. Bacteria, viruses, parasites, or other pathogens typically cause illnesses.

Illnesses can affect various systems and organs in the body and may lead to a wide range of symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough, aches, and fatigue. Treatment for illnesses often involves addressing the underlying cause, such as taking antibiotics to combat a bacterial infection or antiviral medication to treat a viral infection.

On the other hand, an allergy is an abnormal immune response to a substance that is typically harmless. Allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies an environmental irritant, known as an allergen, as a threat to the body.

Common allergens include pollen, pet dander, certain foods, and insect venom. When a person with allergies comes into contact with or ingests an allergen, their immune system releases chemicals such as histamine, which can cause multiple symptoms.

Allergy symptoms can differ significantly according to the type of allergy.

Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) Symptoms

Allergic rhinitis, also called hay fever, is an allergic response affecting the nasal passages and often causing discomfort and irritation. The most common triggers include pollens, dust mites, pet dander and molds. Signs of allergic rhinitis include the following symptoms and can be year round:

• Nasal congestion: One of the primary symptoms of allergic rhinitis is nasal congestion. This response occurs when the blood vessels in the nasal passages become swollen and inflamed, leading to a blocked or stuffy nose. Individuals may also experience a runny nose, with clear nasal discharge, due to increased mucus production. This excess mucus can further contribute to congestion and discomfort.
• Sneezing: Allergic rhinitis can cause frequent and repetitive sneezing, often triggered by exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Sneezing is the body’s natural response to expel irritants from the nasal passages.
• Itching: Itchy eyes, nose, and throat are frequently reported by individuals with allergic rhinitis. Itchy eyes may be accompanied by redness and watering while itching in the nose and throat can lead to persistent throat clearing or coughing.
• Sinus inflammation: Some individuals with allergic rhinitis may also experience sinus pressure and facial pain. This reaction can be due to swelling and congestion in the sinuses, which are cavities around the nose and forehead. The pressure and pain may worsen when bending forward or lying down.
• Eye reactions: Allergic rhinitis can also affect the eyes, leading to a condition known as allergic conjunctivitis. Itchy, red, and watery eyes are common symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, which can occur alongside nasal symptoms or on its own.

Food Allergy Symptoms

Symptoms of food allergies can vary from mild to severe and can affect different parts of the body. Common symptoms of food allergies include:

• Skin reactions: Itching, hives, redness, or swelling of the skin are common signs of a food allergy. These reactions can occur shortly after consuming the allergenic food.
• Digestive issues: Nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea are often reported by individuals with food allergies. These symptoms may occur within a few minutes to a few hours after eating the allergenic food.
• Respiratory problems: Wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or a tight feeling in the throat are respiratory symptoms that can be caused by a food allergy. In severe cases, anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction, can occur, leading to difficulty breathing and a drop in blood pressure.
• Cardiovascular symptoms: Food allergies can also cause rapid heartbeat, lightheadedness, or fainting. These symptoms are more commonly associated with severe allergic reactions.
• Oral symptoms: Itchy or swollen lips, tongue, or throat are oral symptoms that can occur after consuming an allergenic food. It may also lead to a tingling sensation in the mouth.

Insect Sting Allergy Symptoms

Insect sting reactions can be either localized (experienced at the site of the sting) or systemic (experienced throughout the body). Localized allergic reactions include the following symptoms:

• Swelling
• Redness
• Tenderness
• Itch

Systemic allergic responses require immediate medical intervention – the symptoms can be severe and sometimes life-threatening. Systemic symptoms include the following:

• Hives or welts: Raised, itchy bumps that appear on the skin and may spread.
• Swelling: Swelling that extends beyond the sting site, such as in the face, lips, tongue, or throat. This condition can lead to difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• Difficulty breathing: Shortness of breath, wheezing, or tightness in the chest. This type of reactivity can be a sign of a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.
• Dizziness or fainting: Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or losing consciousness.
• Digestive issues: Gastrointestinal symptoms that may accompany a systemic allergic reaction.

Common Illnesses Often Mistaken for Allergies

While both viral respiratory illnesses and allergies can cause discomfort and disrupt daily life, it is important to differentiate between the two. If you are unsure about the cause of your symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Allergy Symptoms Vs. Flu Symptoms

Allergy and flu symptoms can often be mistaken for each other due to their similarities. However, there are key differences that can help distinguish between the two.

Flu symptoms are caused by the influenza virus. Common flu symptoms include a dry cough, fever, aches, and fatigue. Unlike allergies, flu symptoms usually appear suddenly and can be severe. In addition to respiratory symptoms, the flu can trigger gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Another difference between allergy symptoms and flu symptoms is the duration. Allergy symptoms can persist for weeks or even months if the allergen is present. Flu symptoms tend to be at their most severe 24-48 hours after their initial appearance and taper off in under two weeks.

It’s important to note that allergies and the flu can affect people differently. While some individuals may experience mild symptoms, others may have more severe reactions. If you are unsure about your symptoms or they persist, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Allergy Symptoms Vs. Cold Symptoms

Cold symptoms are caused by a viral infection. The rhinovirus usually causes the common cold, although many other viruses can also cause cold symptoms. Cold symptoms include sneezing, sore throat, nasal congestion, coughing, and a runny nose. Unlike allergy symptoms, cold symptoms typically develop gradually over a few days, usually lasting for about a week.

One way to differentiate between allergy symptoms and cold symptoms is the presence of a fever. While it is common to have a low-grade fever with a cold, it is rare to have a fever with allergies. Additionally, the color of nasal discharge can provide some clues. Clear and watery discharge is more common with allergies, while thick and colored discharge is more typical of a cold.

Allergy Symptoms Vs. COVID-19 Symptoms

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The symptoms of COVID-19 can vary but generally include aches, cough, congestion, difficulty breathing, fatigue, fever, loss of taste or smell, congestion, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting. It is important to note that not everyone infected with COVID-19 will experience symptoms, and some individuals may only have mild symptoms.

While both allergies and COVID-19 can cause respiratory symptoms like cough and congestion, there are some key differences to be aware of. Allergies typically do not cause fever or body aches, which are more commonly associated with viral infections like COVID-19. Additionally, symptoms like loss of taste or smell are not commonly associated with allergies but can be a clear indication of COVID-19.

If you are unsure whether your symptoms are due to allergies or COVID-19, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional. They will be able to evaluate your symptoms, consider your medical history, and conduct appropriate testing to determine the cause of your symptoms. It is also critical that you maintain your Covid vaccination schedule and get your flu shot each year.

Seeing an allergist is crucial for managing allergy symptoms and improving overall well-being. With their specialized knowledge, allergists can accurately diagnose allergies, develop personalized treatment plans, and provide ongoing support. By partnering with an allergist, individuals can gain control over their allergies and lead a healthier, more comfortable life.

Find the closest Allergy Partners location to schedule a consultation with an allergist near you

Why Is My Mouth & Throat Itchy After Eating Fruit & Vegetables?

Understanding Food-Pollen Syndrome & Oral Allergy Syndrome

Do you find that your mouth and throat get itchy after eating certain fruits or vegetables? You may initially think this is just a strange reaction to these foods, but the truth is, there could be an underlying condition causing these symptoms. Don’t worry – while irritating and sometimes uncomfortable, such reactions are usually harmless and can often easily be managed with simple dietary changes. In this post, we’ll look at why your mouth and throat might be itching after consuming certain fruits or vegetables as well as potential remedies for resolving this symptom.

Common Causes of Allergic Reactions to Food

If you’re struggling with seasonal allergies and have been washing your food appropriately, the culprit may in fact be Food-Pollen Syndrome (FPS) or Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS). FPS is caused when common proteins found in certain fruits and vegetables closely resemble those contained within pollen. Eating these foods prompts an allergic reaction from the immune system – leading to symptoms such as itchy mouth/throat, upset stomach, hives, and vomiting among others. Fortunately, most people affected by OAS can usually tolerate cooked forms of the trigger foods!

For those who suffer from Oral Allergy Syndrome, a creative way to reduce symptoms is by cooking food instead of eating it raw. High temperatures break down problematic proteins that are responsible for OAS and can make foods more tolerable. In addition, canned versions may be easier on your system than fresh options! While these measures won’t cure the issue or prevent new sensitivities in the future, studies have revealed another promising step – allergy shots! Desensitization through this method could potentially improve not only seasonal allergies but also alleviate discomfort associated with Oral Allergy Syndrome.

Allergy Myth: Busted!

Don’t be fooled by myths! Contrary to popular belief, being allergic to pesticides on fruits is highly unlikely. If you have any symptoms of a food allergy, the cause is more likely due to Food-Pollen Syndrome or Oral Allergy Syndrome, so it’s important that you consult with your allergist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized plan moving forward.

Turn to Allergy Partners for Food Allergy Testing

The team at your local Allergy Partners has experience diagnosing and treating a wide range of food allergies and would be happy to help you understand what allergens are affecting your health. Allergy Partners is the nation’s leading provider of allergy and asthma care with over 40 years of experience

What Is A “Biologic?”

“Biologics” seem to be everywhere these days – on the news, in advertisements, and at your allergists office. So what exactly is a “biologic?” These are injections of medications that are made from antibodies that have been changed so the antibodies attack certain problems in an allergic disease instead of attacking bacteria/viruses the way antibodies normally would. Let’s talk about some of the main biologics available today.

1. Xolair – one of the first antibody injections introduced over 10 years ago. This antibody actually attacks another antibody that is too high in allergy patients (called IgE). It’s helpful for patients with asthma and some forms of chronic skin conditions (hives, eczema)
2. Fasenra/Nucala – these are newer antibody injections that attack allergy cells that are too high (called eosinophils) and can also be helpful for asthma sufferers.
3. Dupixent – this injection is an antibody that targets an intermediate signaling particle in the allergic reaction pathway which can lead to improvement in asthma and eczema patients as well.

Most of these injections are administered in an office with medical supervision which can often be your allergists office. Since allergists are familiar with allergy shots, its fairly easy for allergists to accommodate patients who might need a biologic therapy for their disease. Of course, the original allergy shot therapy still works very well for allergy patients and is typically much less costly. Allergy shots are also able to lower the altered levels of the chemicals I just described above and can even make this change permanent if patients follow the shot protocol designed for them individually by their Board Certified Allergy Partners physician.

If you suffer from allergic conditions, it’s a good idea to consider an allergy evaluation. There are many treatment options which can specifically target your individual needs.

By Dr. Ty Coleman
Allergy Partners of the Midlands

How & When to Use an EpiPen

Dealing with Anaphylactic Reactions

Are you or a loved one living with allergies that could result in anaphylactic shock? At-home emergency preparedness, including a proper understanding of when and how to use an EpiPen, is essential for managing potentially life-threatening allergic reactions. Even if you have some familiarity with the usage guidelines of your epinephrine autoinjector device, take the time to review them carefully. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how and when to properly utilize an EpiPen in case you find yourself in a medical emergency due to a severe allergic reaction.

What Is an EpiPen?

EpiPen and EpiPen Jr are injectable forms of epinephrine that provide lifesaving treatment for people suffering from anaphylaxis – a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. These formulas differ based on the patient’s weight, with 0.3mg recommended for those who weigh 66 pounds (30 kg) or more and 0.15 mg suited to those between 33 – 66 lb. (15- 30kg). By taking quick action at the onset of symptoms, these treatments can help avert serious health risks associated with anaphylactic reactions resulting from food allergies, medications like allergy shots, stings/bites by insects, or other triggers including exercise.

An EpiPen should be used when there are signs of a severe reaction. Symptoms of anaphylaxis can affect different areas of the body and include:

• Head and neck: tingling or itching inside the mouth, swelling of the tongue or lips, an itchy throat, throat swelling or tightness, or hoarseness.
• Skin: Hives or swelling, itching, or redness of the skin.
• GI tract: nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, or losing control of urination or bowel movements.
• Respiratory system: shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, or trouble breathing.
• Nervous system: dizziness or confusion.
• Cardiovascular system: increased heart rate, a weak pulse, shock, or loss of consciousness.

Remember to store your EpiPen in a place away from children and keep it out of extreme temperatures, as freezing will damage its effectiveness.

When & How to Use Your EpiPen

Recognizing life-threatening anaphylaxis is key to ensuring quick and proper treatment takes place. To effectively manage this condition, the use of EpiPen should be administered immediately into the middle of the upper thigh muscle – clothing does not need to be removed first.

When providing a child with care, remember to hold their leg firmly in place during the injection. Do not inject it into other areas, such as their fingers, as it could potentially cause side effects. In case symptoms persist or return after one dose has been given, a second dose may be needed for full relief from discomfort and further protection against illness progression. After you use the EpiPen, seek immediate medical attention for further evaluation.

Potential Side Effects of EpiPen Usage

EpiPen is an important medication, but there are a few possible side effects to be aware of. They can include increased heart rate, anxiousness, sweating, vomiting, and more – although these typically subside when the effect wears off. Before taking this medicine, make sure your doctor knows about any pre-existing medical conditions like thyroid problems or high blood pressure; if you’re pregnant, it’s especially crucial that they’re informed.

Should I be Afraid to Use My EpiPen?

When it comes to unknown allergens or severe allergic reactions, using an EpiPen can be a scary prospect. After all, it contains a potentially life-saving dose of epinephrine, which is why so many people worry about potential side effects or complications. However, while it’s natural to feel nervous before injecting yourself or your child with an EpiPen, you shouldn’t let these fears stop you from staying safe and protecting yourself in the event of an allergic reaction.

Epinephrine is one of the quickest and most effective treatments for severe allergic reactions and anaphylaxis. When used correctly and in time, epinephrine can prevent serious injury or even death due to a severe allergic reaction. The EpiPen itself is easy to use; the device includes clear instructions on how to inject the medication intramuscularly into your thigh. It also includes a needle guard that helps protect against accidental injuries from the needle after injection.

Preventing Anaphylaxis

Navigating food allergies can be a challenge, but taking the right steps is key to ensuring anaphylaxis prevention. Careful label reading and preparation ahead of meals or travel are crucial for those with known allergens, as well as making sure family members and caregivers have full allergy knowledge.

Always carry your EpiPen in case of emergency so it’s available when needed. Other medications such as Benadryl may also be recommended by your doctor depending on the severity of allergic reactions you could experience. Stay informed about individual risks and create a plan that works best for safety!

Rely On Allergy Partners’ Network of Knowledge

At Allergy Partners, we believe knowledge is power – that’s why we’re committed to providing our patients with accurate information about common myths surrounding medical devices such as EpiPens. Before using your EpiPen in case of an emergency, make sure to speak with your physician or allergist first to ensure you understand how to use it properly and safely. In addition, make sure to keep your prescriptions up-to-date so that you always have access to this invaluable lifesaving treatment when needed.

Taking medications prescribed by your physician, carrying a dependable EpiPen for protection, and doing research about your allergies are all essential in the treatment of allergy symptoms. Don’t be afraid to use an EpiPen if you encounter an anaphylactic reaction – it’s the best way to get quick medical attention and keep yourself safe.

If you want to learn more about anaphylaxis and treating allergies, contact your local Allergy Partners today and start getting answers!

Sources: EpiPen prescribing insert (Mylan Inc.) and National Food Allergy Guidelines

Tips for Relieving “Winter Itch”

Stop Scratching & Embrace Smooth, Moisturized Skin

Do you suffer from “winter itch”? Not to worry – you are not alone! Many of Allergy Partners’ patients experience the same skin discomfort in winter months due to the cold and dry weather. But there are ways that you can manage this pesky problem and start feeling better soon. With a combination of avoiding triggers, using protective skin care products, and following helpful lifestyle advice, your skin will be smooth and itch-free just in time for spring!

What Causes Dry, Itchy Skin?

Believe it or not, the dry and itchy skin many of us experience in winter is not always due to allergies. It’s known as “winter itch” – an uncomfortable sensation most commonly associated with eczema and other genetic conditions such as ichthyosis which often result in scaly patches appearing on legs. But rather than these internal factors being responsible for seasonal scratching spells, they’re more likely caused by external environmental causes like cold air temperatures and low humidity levels both indoors and outdoors from central heating systems running throughout our homes and workplaces.

Tips for Relief

To bring relief from winter itch, make your skincare routine a priority. Avoid hot baths or showers which will dry out the skin and cause more moisture loss; lukewarm water is the better option! In addition to this, pick mild body washes such as Dove, Cetaphil, or Aveeno; soaps with harsh chemicals should be avoided at all costs for healthy-looking skin during colder months.

Maintaining a healthy skin barrier is essential for protecting yourself from the elements and preventing common conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, or dryness. To keep your skin looking its best, experts suggest using a heavy ointment-type moisturizer once or twice daily to help lock in moisture effectively. If you prefer something less greasy but just as effective, then opt for creams with a higher water content that helps seal hydration into your epidermis without evaporating too quickly. Remember to always use products free of any potential contact allergens like fragrances and dyes. Moisturizing consistently can make all the difference when it comes to achieving radiant-looking skincare.

Sunscreen Isn’t Just for Summer!

Just because the days are getting colder and shorter doesn’t mean you no longer have to protect your skin from the sun. The winter sun’s rays can still cause painful burns, even during cooler months! Make sure you wear sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15 while playing in the snow since reflected light has been known to increase exposure. Be smart this season – stay protected for healthy outdoor fun under the winter sun!

Allergy Partners Can Help Relieve the Itch

Winter Itch is an irritating problem, but one that can be managed. If you’re feeling the effects of dry winter air, make sure to follow the steps outlined in this post. Use healthful and hydrating home remedies, moisturize regularly, and find ways to keep humidifiers running in your home. Also consider going to medical professionals who specialize in skin care so they can give you additional tips for relief!

Allergy Partners has a long history of helping our patients manage difficult skin issues during the winter months. Contact us if you want to discuss further how we can help you get through the winter months itch-free. Taking proactive measures can help with “winter itch” during wintertime and beyond!