ALLERGIES IN EL PASO, TX
Allergies are among the most common causes of chronic illness in the United States. More than 50 million Americans are diagnosed with allergies every year. Some people have a single allergy, but many have more than one.
WHAT IS AN ALLERGY?
An allergy is a response by your immune system that occurs when you ingest or are otherwise exposed to a foreign substance or material. This immune response involves proteins called antibodies that target these foreign substances or materials as triggers; the triggers, known as allergens, are generally harmless unless you have an immune system that is hypersensitive to those specific things. In this case, your immune system responds to any allergens by releasing chemicals called histamines which can manifest as symptoms that might include a reaction on your skin (e.g., rash or hives), in your sinuses and/or airways (e.g., runny nose or congestion), or within your digestive system (e.g., gas or upset stomach).
People can suffer from seasonal allergies, year-round allergies, or both. Their allergic reactions can be mild or severe, depending on the allergen itself, the duration of exposure to the allergen, genetics, etc. Some people have severe allergies that can trigger a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis; it often occurs immediately or very shortly following exposure to an allergen. The most common anaphylactic reactions have been found to occur in response to the ingestion of certain foods, some insect bites or stings, intolerable medications, and latex. Note: Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency; call 911 and seek emergency medical help.
DETERMINING ALLERGIES
Taking inventory of your symptoms is a good first step towards determining if you have any allergies, or if you are experiencing some other illness. You might need to see a doctor for a thorough evaluation; your symptom inventory can help your doctor determine what allergies you might have or lead him or her to refer you to a specialist like an ENT or an allergist to assess and diagnose you. You might be given allergy tests–skin tests and blood tests can be used to identify allergy triggers and help your doctor determine the best treatment.
MANAGING YOUR ALLERGIES
The best way to prevent allergy symptoms is to steer clear of the allergens that trigger your symptoms, but sometimes you cannot avoid them. If you cannot avoid your triggers, you might be able to take medications to help provide some relief. Some allergy medications are available for sale over-the-counter, but some require a prescription from your doctor. Discuss your medication options with your doctor.
Modern MD, PLLC is the health and wellness family practice of Dr. Patricia Lopez-Po, MD, serving communities in El Paso, Texas, and New Mexico. At her family medical center located on the west side of El Paso, and via home visits, Dr. Lopez-Po provides holistic medical care and wellness treatments to her patients; she focuses on the whole patient and provides continuous primary care with specialty services as needed. She also offers a variety of aesthetic and cosmetic services. Contact Dr. Lopez-Po at Modern MD to schedule an appointment.
Written by Erika Mehlhaff
