Allergies can cause annoying symptoms, interfere with your daily activities, and in severe cases, may be life-threatening. If you suspect you have allergies, ranging from hay fever to food reactions, contact Buffington Family Medicine for diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Ryan A. Buffington and the team of providers can help you figure out your triggers and offer relief. If you live in Keller, Texas, or the surrounding area, call the office to secure an appointment for an allergy consultation.
Allergies occur due to an overreaction in your immune system. Usually, the immune system protects you from foreign invaders that can cause illness or infection. An allergy occurs when your immune system mistakes a harmless compound for an invader and reacts. You may experience allergy symptoms in the lungs, throat, sinuses, digestive system, ears, skin, and nose.
Airborne substances, such as pollen, dust, and molds, can trigger allergic reactions in your respiratory system. Certain foods, including dairy, shellfish and fish, nuts, and wheat, may cause your digestive system to react. Other triggers include insect stings, animal dander, medications, and latex.
Allergy symptoms are varied and can affect many parts of your body. Suspect an allergy if you have any of the following:
Some people have severe allergic reactions that can result in anaphylactic shock. This is a potentially life-threatening condition that might first present as typical allergy symptoms, but quickly escalates into more serious symptoms, including
If you’re at risk of anaphylaxis, Dr. Buffington can prescribe epinephrine shots — the EpiPen® — to resolve your attack. Carry an EpiPen with you at all times if you do have a history of this severe allergic reaction.
At Buffington Family Medicine, Dr. Buffington may perform skin prick tests or blood tests to evaluate you for allergies. He'll also review your medical and family history, as well as go over symptoms.
Depending on the cause of your allergy, you may receive oral medications or shots to provide relief. In some cases, especially when it comes to food, you may just need to avoid the trigger to prevent a reaction.
If you suspect allergies are causing your nasal congestion, rashes, or digestive distress, call the office of Buffington Family Medicine for diagnosis and treatment today.
