Allergies

Allergies Q & A

More than 24 million people in the United States are affected by allergies. There are indoor and outdoor triggers, plus food, that can cause you a great deal of discomfort. If allergies are making you miserable, visit Annandale Primary Care for relief. Their doctors treat patients of all ages in Annandale, Virginia, with the most up-to-date allergy solutions. Call or schedule an appointment online today.

What are common allergy symptoms?

Because there are so many different types of allergies, like food allergies, insect allergies, and skin allergies to name a few, symptoms can vary. However, there are some tell-tale signs that you may have a type of allergy:

If you notice one or more of these symptoms, you should schedule an appointment to visit Annadale Primary Care.

Why do people have allergies?

When you’re first exposed to an allergen, like pet dander or dust, your immune system reacts with white blood cells churning out IgE antibodies to fight the attack. The allergen combines with the antibodies to release histamine, which triggers symptoms. There is a big difference between a cold and an allergy. Although both have similar symptoms, a cold will usually clear up in two weeks time while allergies persist much longer, potentially for life.

What is an example of a common allergen?

Mold is just one common allergen. It develops in humid areas, like the bathroom, as fungal spores increase and distribute more rapidly in damp areas.

Is there any relief from allergies?

At Annandale Primary Care, the doctors prescribe several different remedies to alleviate their patients’ allergies. This may include over-the-counter medications, allergy shots, prescription medication, or even surgery.

A great way to keep your allergies at bay is to stay away from allergens. If dust is a problem, make sure your home is kept clean, and air filters are regularly changed. If strawberries give you a rosy rash on your face and neck, don’t eat them. You may love dogs and cats, but if being around them makes your eyes itch and sneezing occur, stay away from these furry friends. The best defense against allergies is to recognize what triggers them and avoid it.