Allergies may occur when a person’s immune system responds excessively to typically harmless chemicals. An initial encounter with an allergen typically doesn’t result in a reaction immediately since the immune system may require some time to become sensitive to it. However, upon subsequent encounters with the allergen, your immune response can result in inflammation in various areas of your body, such as the skin, sinuses, airways, or digestive tract.
The severity of allergic reactions may vary from person to person, ranging from minor discomfort to potentially life-threatening Anaphylaxis. While in some cases, you can manage these allergies with over-the-counter remedies as needed. However, if your allergies substantially interfere with your daily life or diminish your overall quality of life, seeking consultation with an allergist at Urgent Medical Care Clinic in New York City is recommended.
You might be wondering how someone can know that they have an allergy. Here, we describe a few signs or symptoms that indicate you are suffering from an allergy and how this disease can be diagnosed and caused.
Signs or Symptoms of Allergy –
In some cases, these reactions can be severe and involve life-threatening symptoms, while in other cases, the symptoms are mild and merely a minor irritation.
The following are the most common signs or symptoms of a mild allergic reaction –
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Localized itching.
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Nasal Congestion.
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Red or watery eyes.
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Neck and face hives.
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Rashes.
In a moderate or severe allergic reaction, signs or symptoms may include –
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Abdominal pain.
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Swelling in various parts of the body.
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Loss of consciousness.
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Difficulty in breathing or swallowing.
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Chest discomfort or tightness.
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Dizziness.
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Nausea or vomiting.
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Diarrhea.
For instance, Anaphylaxis, the most severe type of allergic reaction, is characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure and a restriction of breathing.
Cause of Allergic Reaction –
Doctors don’t know why people experience allergies. Some allergies are inherited because they run in families. You are more likely to acquire allergies if a close family member suffers from this disease. Although the causes of allergies are unknown, some compounds are known to result in an allergic reaction frequently. Most allergic individuals are sensitive to one or more of the following –
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Animal dander, such as tiny flakes of skin from animals with fur.
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Dust mites.
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Pollen.
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Certain medications, like penicillin and aspirin.
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Latex.
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Certain plants.
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Certain foods, including nuts, eggs, milk from cows, fruits, shellfish, and more.
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Bites or stings from insects.
How Can You Diagnose An Allergic Reaction ?
An allergist or a primary care physician at NY Urgent Care Clinic can identify the cause of allergic responses. If you experience signs or symptoms of an allergic reaction, the doctor will examine you and inquire about your medical history. They might advise you to keep a record that lists your symptoms and what seems to be causing them if your allergic reactions are particularly severe.
The doctor might wish to run some tests to find out what is causing your allergy. The most commonly performed allergy tests to assist in identifying the cause include –
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Skin Prick Tests – A tiny amount of a possible allergen will be pricked into the skin by a physician. The person may have an allergy if the skin reacts and becomes red, itchy, or swollen.
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Patch Test – In this testing procedure, a doctor might apply a metal disc to a patient’s back that contains a little bit of a potential allergen to test for contact eczema. They will conduct another skin reaction check after a 48-hour interval, followed by yet another assessment after two days.
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Blood Test – In this, the doctor checks your blood for antibodies against a potential allergen. An antibody is a protein your body creates to defend against harmful substances.
In cases where skin testing is neither beneficial nor practical, a blood test is a good option.
So, above mentioned is some information about allergic reactions. If you are looking for an Urgent Medical Care Clinic in New York City to treat these allergic reactions, contact the Walk-in Clinic of NYC team. Give a call today at (212) 686-5800 to have a consultation with allergy experts!
