We all know what allergy symptoms feel like. As soon as you step outside to greet the Brooklyn elm trees, your nose starts running and itching while your eyes well up with tears. This uncontrollable process can drive anyone crazy in seconds, not mention daily.
However, you’re far from alone in this ordeal. Did you know that 30% of adults and 40% of children suffer from allergies? In fact, being in the outdoors is one allergy in a list of many that can last a lifetime or come and go:
- Food
- Latex
- Mold
- Pollen
- Pets
- Insects
- …and more
They can affect various parts of your body, like your eyes, skin, nasal and sinus passages. The list of potential symptoms isn’t for the weak of heart either – watery eyes, running noses, sneezes, rashes, swelling, and closed throats are only a few of the reactions that can occur. What’s important to keep in mind is that while symptoms are only a minor nuisance for some, they can be life-threatening for others.
Why Do Allergies Happen?
You’ve got your immune system to thank. While it does protect your body from sickness and diseases, it also can overreact to something it doesn’t like. When you’re allergic to something, your immune system will create an antibody called immunoglobulin to fight it, thus producing the allergic reaction.
On a minor scale, it simply produces a sneeze when your nose sucks in pollen to try to get rid of it. What’s more dangerous is when your body tries to tell you to never ingest a substance again by forcing you into anaphylactic shock – a severe allergic reaction that can quickly affect many parts of your body.
How Do I Know If I Have Allergies?
In most cases, consistent sneezing, itching, hives, or other reactions will be the major indicator that you’re allergic to something. However, it’s important to figure out the severity of your allergies – are they just aggravating, or could they be potentially life-threatening?
Visiting an allergy specialist in Brooklyn might be the best course of action to ensure you know how to prevent an allergy and treat it when it occurs. Let’s take a look at your treatment options after you visit an allergy specialist at AG Urgent Care.
Allergy Treatment Options
Quick Allergy Test
Suspect that you might be allergic to something but want to confirm? Our AG allergy specialists routinely perform quick allergy tests for children and adults at our Brooklyn and Queens locations.
Minor Lifestyle Changes
The most effective treatment is to simply avoid the source of the allergen. However, our specialists know that it’s not always that easy. They can help you develop an effective allergy treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and workstyle.
Immunotherapy and Over-the-Counter Treatments
If you can’t avoid encountering something that triggers your reactions, immunotherapy can help reduce your symptoms. On the other hand, over-the-counter medications can be effective in treating allergies such as nose sprays, antihistamines, and creams.
Find Allergy Relief Today
No one should have to go about their day-to-day life suffering allergic reactions. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, suspect a more serious allergy, or feel a decline in quality of life, it’s time to develop a lifelong treatment plan. Our allergy specialists at AG Urgent Care can ensure effective allergy treatment and help you find relief today. Check in online to one of our allergy relief centers in Brooklyn and Queens today!