Allergy Bingo!

Sometimes the search for the one or more irritants behind acute sinus or respiratory system dysfunctions is long and tedious. But once identified through a test, whetherit’s common pollen, food or something more exotic, the culprit will be dealt with by your allergy doctor. 

The Top 3 Weirdest Allergies

Who hasn’t ever been allergic to anything? Most people at one time or another have been afflicted with pollen or mold-borne irritants. For others it’s hold that chocolate or shellfish. There is always at least one trigger, and for the unfortunate very few, some very bizarre onresr. Here are the three considered the strangest.

• Cold—While many jokingly claim they are allergic to cold, a very small minority suffer from a real temperature related condition called Familial Cold Auto inflammatory Syndrome. Sufferers experience the release of histamine into the skin, leading to irritation in the form of hives and rashes. Deadly as well as strange, this syndrome, if untreated, makes a plunge into chilly water or a cold shower a fatal adventure. The body suffers killing shock.

• Sun—A mere 300 suffer from solar urticarial. Their condition makes stepping out of doors problematic because direct sunlight stimulates irritating cells in the skin. Swelling and redness appear. If sun exposure continues unchecked, lesions result. The afflicted must avoid excess exposure and use sunscreen. Worst cases must wear special clothes and hide from the sun, like the iconic vampire.

• Water—Topping the list of weird comesaquagenic urticarial, an extremely rare allergy (23 million-to-one against). Those unfortunates who cannot tolerate water are forever housebound. Bathing is a trial. Sweat and tears are feared. To try common beverages is impossible. Drinking water is done with care.

While being unlucky enough to suffer from one of these allergies is a long shot, being bothered by pollen, mold or mites isn’t. For information about allergy treatment in Cary, visit this website.

Wide Testing of Asthma Kids for Peanut Allergy Is Wrong, Say Allergists

A recent study suggesting that children with asthma should be more routinely tested for peanut allergy is being criticized by both major American allergist societies… read more

All About United States Food Allergies

This easy-to-read infographic gives information about food allergy rates in the United States. Each panel gives statistical data that is understandable and clear, and the infographic discusses types of foods, the number of children affected, and more.

Do I Have a Food Allergy?

Food allergies can be quite debilitating. While some allergies present as mild discomfort, others are more severe and can even include anaphylactic shock. Individuals can be allergic to such foods as tree nuts, shellfish and eggs, among many others. Read below to learn about the most common symptoms and how to avoid discomfort.

1. Hives and Other Skin Conditions

Hives can be extremely itchy and can spread all over the body. Other skin conditions include eczema and general itchiness. You can relieve discomfort from hives by wearing loose clothing, being in a cool room and applying wet cloths to the area.

2. Oral Tingling or Itching

The sensation of itching and tingling inside the mouth can also be a symptom of a food allergy. Tingling often goes away on its own, but you’ll want to determine the specific allergy in order to prevent it from recurring.

3. Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Foods can cause allergies that affect your gastrointestinal system through such bodily reactions as vomiting, upset stomach and diarrhea. Some over-the-counter supplements can help with these symptoms if you’re not able to eliminate the food from your diet.

4. Upper Respiratory Problems

One of the most severe allergic reactions involves the upper respiratory system. While some people may only experience symptoms that mimic a common cold, others can have these symptoms along with anaphylactic shock or general excessive swelling. These symptoms often require immediate attention.

Visit this website to learn more about the most common symptoms of food allergies or to find a food allergy doctor in Raleigh.

Your Allergies May Be to Blame

Sneezing, wheezing, watery eyes, and a runny nose aren’t the only symptoms of allergic diseases... read more

Food Allergies on Food Stamps: When ‘Safe’ Food Doesn’t Fit the Budget

When feeding a family with food restrictions, it’s easy to imagine the familiar quandary of standing in a grocery store aisle.... read more

Just Say No to Unnatural Snacks

No doubt it is convenient to pull out pre-packaged snacks when your child is hungry. However if yours has allergies, it isn’t worth the risk. Homemade snacks can be made quickly and offer much more nutrition: better for everyone.

Why Do I Need to See a Doctor for My Sinus Infection?

When the mucus coming out of your nose is thick and yellow or green, chances are you’ve developed a sinus infection. It is usually triggered by a cold: when you are constantly wiping and blowing your nose bacteria has ample opportunity to get in. A sinus infection occurs when the nasal passages subsequently become inflamed. When this happens, it may be time to see your doctor.

How Do I Know I Have One?

A sinus infection may first feel like a cold, but often the symptoms last longer and are more severe. You likely have one if you:

• Have symptoms that last more than a week
• Feel pressure behind your cheeks and eyes
• Have thick, brightly colored mucus
• Feel fatigued
• Have bad breath
• Feel dizzy when changing positions

Do I Need to See a Doctor?

While sinus infections can go away without treatment, it can take some time. Antibiotics will usually help clear it up sooner. Also, you should see a doctor if you develop a fever or your infection symptoms last for weeks, both symptoms that are atypical.

Also, if left on its own an infection may recur. If it does, you should see a doctor who can verify if there is an underlying condition that is causing it. Habits such as smoking can make it worse, as well.

Having a sinus infection is certainly unpleasant; seeing a physician for it can help you clear it up now and possibly prevent future illness. For more information about sinus infection treatment in Cary, please visit this website.