It is estimated that around 50 million residents of the United States suffer from allergy-related conditions such as asthma and hay fever. Some allergies can be controlled through the use of OTC or over-the-counter medications. Others can be life threatening. It can be hard to determine when it’s time to call an Allergist in Evansville IN. This article is intended to help allergy sufferers decide between reaching for the Benadryl and reaching for the phone to make an appointment.
Hay Fever
Hay fever, also known by its official medical term, allergic rhinitis, is a condition that affects the nose and sinuses. Its symptoms include a runny nose, itching, congestion, and sneezing. Its common name can be explained by the fact that most episodes of allergic rhinitis are caused by either pollen or outdoor mold. However, in rare cases, it can be caused by indoor allergens as well. Patients who experience symptoms that persist into winter, or do not find relief with over-the-counter medications, may want to schedule an appointment with an Allergist in Evansville IN.
Serious Asthma
Asthma is a common condition in which the lungs or linings of a patient’s bronchial tubes become inflamed. It may be caused by excess mucus, or by muscle spasms. In some cases, this causes mild discomfort. Some asthma sufferers report only a chronic cough. However, in many cases, asthma attacks can be life-threatening. Patients who are having trouble catching their breath, experience frequent shortness of breath or chest tightness, or wheeze and cough after exercise should absolutely see an allergist regarding appropriate medications.
Skin Allergies
Contact dermatitis, more commonly known as skin allergies, most frequently manifest as rashes, eczema, or hives. These symptoms may develop immediately after exposure to the irritant, or they may take hours, or even days, to develop. Although skin allergies are rarely fatal, it’s important to determine the cause of the allergy. This often requires allergy testing and preventative education.
Severe Allergic Reactions
Anyone experiencing a severe allergic reaction should seek immediate emergency medical attention. Severe allergic reactions are characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, a severe drop in blood pressure, hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue or throat, and/or loss of consciousness. Less severe reactions can be treated via outpatient procedures, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Visit Dr. Smith for more information.