Seasonal allergies

Allergies are caused by an overreactive immune system. Your immune system confuses a usually harmless substance for a dangerous intruder and tries to flush the substance, also called an allergen, out of your system. This response can lead to symptoms such as cough, runny nose, sneezing and rash or hives.

Allergic Rhinitis (commonly referred to as hay fever) affect up to 20 percent of all Americans. Common allergens include pollen, mold, pet dander and dust mites.

The overreaction of immune cells in your body called mast cells leads to the release of histamine and other chemicals into your bloodstream which cause your symptoms.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose and nasal congestion
• Itchy, watery or swollen eyes
• Chest congestion
• Difficulty breathing
• Rash or hives

Causes of Seasonal Allergies:

Triggers include dust, pollen, mold, animal dander and several others. An overactive immune response to these substances causes mast cells (immune cells) to burst and release histamine and other chemicals into your bloodstream, causing your symptoms.

Treatment Options for Seasonal Allergies:

• Avoidance measures – we can help you avoid exposure to allergens that trigger your seasonal allergies
• Allergy testing – our allergy testing helps identify your specific allergens that trigger your symptoms
• Medications – antihistamines, nasal sprays (decongestant, antihistamine and steroid), and eye drops
• Allergen immunotherapy – desensitization involves exposing people to larger and larger amounts of allergen in order to change the immune system’s response

If you would like to learn more about how Relief Allergy & Sinus Institute can help you get your seasonal allergies under control, request an appointment today online or call (630) 513-1691.

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