Allergies

Allergens are tiny particles that, when inhaled, trigger a response from the body’s immune system. Allergic sufferers can react to one or many allergens. Some people are allergic to outdoor allergens, like pollen or emissions from cars, while others react to indoor triggers, like dust or mold.

The body mistakenly identifies the allergens as parasites, and sends cells, called mast cells, to release chemical “weapons” into the nose, eyes or any other area through which allergens might enter the body. If you experience symptoms, your doctor can identify what is causing your reaction and develop a treatment plan.

Take the following steps to reduce symptoms:

• Change clothes and shower immediately after spending a long time outdoors
• Avoid going outside when the pollen count is high
• Wear long-sleeved shirts, sunglasses, a mask or hat when mowing the lawn or gardening
• Replace air conditioner filters regularly
• Place air purifiers in bedrooms and other common areas
• Dust and clean often (wear a mask if you are allergic to dust or mold)
• Decrease dampness by installing vents in bathrooms

Food Allergy

About 50 million Americans have an allergy of some kind. Food allergies occurs when the immune system overreacts to a food or a substance in a food, identifying it as a danger and triggering a protective response (allergic reaction). Food allergies are most common in babies and children, but they can appear at any age.

Symptoms can range from mild (rash) to severe (anaphylaxis) a life-threatening whole-body allergic reaction. Eggs, milk, peanuts, fish, shellfish, wheat, soy are some of the types of food responsible for 90 percent of all allergic reactions.

Food allergies are diagnosed by skin tests and or blood tests. The primary way to manage a food allergy is to avoid consuming the food that causes you problems.

Local Pollen Count – For an accurate air quality update, we recommend checking local news station websites.