Allergies
An allergy is an exaggerated response from your immune system to a normally harmless substance. Common allergens (the name given to these trigger substances) include pollen, mold, dust mites, pet dander, food and chemicals. Allergies affect about one out of every five Americans. What Causes Allergies? Your immune system is your body’s first line of…
Allergy FAQ
What are allergies? Allergies are your immune system’s exaggerated response to a substance that is deemed a threat but is actually harmless. When this substance is inhaled, swallowed or comes into contact with your skin, your immune system defends your body by releasing chemicals that attack the invader. These chemicals cause unpleasant symptoms such as…
Allergy Shots
Allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy) are the most common form of immunotherapy. They can be used as a long-term treatment for seasonal, indoor and insect sting allergies. How Do Allergy Shots Work? Allergy shots work by getting your body used to the allergen slowly, with the hopes that you will develop an immunity or tolerance to…
Allergy Testing
The only way to treat your allergy symptoms is to determine exactly what is causing them. This is done through a series of allergy tests. What Is a Skin Prick Test? A skin prick test is the most common form of allergy testing. This test involves placing a small drop of an allergen extract on…
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a method of allergy treatment that involves introducing small amounts of allergen to your body and then gradually building up doses over a period of time until you develop an immunity. There are two types of immunotherapy treatments: subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT), also known as allergy shots, and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), or allergy drops.…