FAQs About Allergies

Have some questions and looking for some answers regarding allergies? Unfortunately, allergies are a common problem that affect children. We’ll cover some of the most common questions, but if you live in or near Clearwater or Westchase, FL, and want to learn about allergies, stop by Clearwater Pediatric Care.

What Are Allergies?

Often, when people say they have “allergies,” they mean season allergies caused by pollen, or regular allergies caused by pet dander. However, allergies are, in general, allergic reactions. You can have allergies to specific foods, clothing materials, so on and so forth.

Why Do Allergies Occur?

Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign body within your body. The immune system mobilizes to destroy what it sees as foreign invaders and threats. While the immune system works hard to protect us from real threats, such as viruses, it can overreact to things like pollen, causing an allergic reaction.

If your child is suffering from allergies, contact Clearwater Pediatric Care.

What Are The Common Symptoms of Allergies?

With seasonal allergies caused by pollen, you’ll often suffer frequent sneezing and itchy eyes. You may also suffer from a runny or congested nose, coughing, an itchy throat, and various other things. Allergies to pet dander typically exhibit similar symptoms. With skin allergies, you’ll often experience hives or rashes.

What Is Allergic Rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis refers to allergies that affect your nose and breathing. This includes seasonal allergies caused by pollen. Pet dander allergies also frequently qualify as allergic rhinitis. Ultimately, the allergic rhinitis diagnosis is one of the most common allergy diagnoses.

How Many People Suffer From Allergies?

Allergies are very common. It’s believed that 60 million or more Americans suffer from allergic rhinitis, including seasonal allergies and allergies to dander. Roughly 32 million Americans suffer some type of food allergy. Allergies are the 6th leading cause of chronic illnesses in the United States.

Are Allergies Dangerous?

Seasonal allergies and allergic reactions to pet dander typically are not life-threatening. However, they can gravely impact your quality of life. Some people can also suffer severe allergic reactions to some things, such as peanuts. In some cases, these allergic reactions can be life-threatening. In worst-case scenarios, an allergic reaction can cause anaphylactic shock, which can produce greatly restricted airways and can even cause cardiac arrest.

Can Allergies Be Treated?

Yes! Allergies are treatable. In some cases, Over-the-Counter (OTC) medications are enough to provide relief for seasonal allergies. With severe allergic reactions, more advanced treatment is needed and time is of the essence.

To learn more about allergies and how your pediatrician can help, call the pediatricians at Clearwater Pediatric Care in Clearwater, FL, at (727) 461-1543. You can also reach them at Westchase Pediatric Care in Westchase, FL, by calling (813) 818-1543, so call today.