Allergies

When your body treats a harmless substance as a threat, this is called an allergy. Your immune system is designed to attack foreign substances that pose a risk, but sometimes it can overreact, which is called an allergy. It is estimated that 30% of adults have at least one allergy, while 40% of children have allergies. If you need allergy treatment in the Joliet or Wilmington, IL, area, come see our medical team at Primary Care Joliet.

Types of Allergies

Allergies come in many forms, from seasonal sneezing from pollen to serious food allergies. Coming in contact with an allergen can trigger an allergic reaction, which can be as mild as a skin rash or as severe as anaphylactic shock. Types of allergies include:

• Inhalants – pollens, dust, mold, dander, smoke, chemical fumes and other airborne substances
• Foods – nuts, seafood, strawberries, wheat and many other foods
• Medications – NSAIDS, antibiotics, narcotics and many other drugs
• Contact dermatitis – latex, topical chemicals, plant oils and other skin irritants
• Venoms – bee, spider, snake and other venoms

You can be free from allergies all your life and suddenly become allergic to certain substances as an adult. Conversely, many children outgrow allergies and build a tolerance to items that once caused allergic reactions.

Symptoms of Allergies

There are many different types of allergy symptoms. Some of the most common are those that affect the eyes and upper respiratory system, inhalants that cause hay fever with a runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing. Foods, medications, venoms and contact allergens may result in rashes, hives, itchy skin and swelling. The most severe allergic reactions can cause anaphylaxis, which can cut off breathing.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you have one allergy, you are more likely to have others. At Primary Care Joliet, we can provide allergy testing to determine what substances are causing allergic reactions and determine the best treatment plan. Avoiding allergens is desirable, but it is not always possible. Certain medications and treatments may be needed to manage your symptoms and avoid serious complications.

Allergies are very common, but they can make life miserable and may pose a serious health risk. If you want to explore treatment options for chronic allergies or you need immediate allergic reaction treatment, contact us at Primary Care Joliet. Call our clinic in Joliet or Wilmington, IL, to schedule an appointment.