The cold that never stops: Allergies!

Why is allergies likely if I feel like my cold won't go away?

Allergies can sometimes be mistaken for a cold, especially if the symptoms persist for an extended period of time. If you feel like your cold won't go away, and you are experiencing symptoms such as a runny nose, congestion, and sneezing, it's possible that you may be experiencing allergies rather than a cold.

Allergy symptoms can be similar to those of a cold, but there are some key differences. Allergy symptoms are often more persistent than those of a cold, and they may not be accompanied by a fever or body aches. Additionally, allergy symptoms can be triggered by specific allergens, such as pollen, dust, or pet dander.

If you suspect that your symptoms may be due to allergies, it's a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional, who can help you determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. This may include allergy testing to identify specific allergens, as well as medications or other treatments to manage your symptoms.

What is the most common environmental allergy?

The most common environmental allergy is allergic rhinitis, which is also known as hay fever. It is caused by a reaction to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander, and mold spores. The symptoms of allergic rhinitis include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion.

How do you test for environmental allergy?

There are several ways to test for environmental allergies, including:

1. Skin prick test: A small amount of an allergen is placed on the skin, and then a small prick or puncture is made to allow the allergen to enter the skin. If the skin develops a raised, red, itchy bump at the site, this can indicate an allergy.
2. Blood test: A blood sample is taken and tested for the presence of specific antibodies to certain allergens. This can help determine if an allergy is present.

Why are allergy shots so effective for environmental allergies?

Allergy shots, also known as allergen immunotherapy, are effective in treating allergies because they work by desensitizing the immune system to specific allergens. The shots contain small amounts of the allergen that a person is allergic to, and over time, the doses are gradually increased.

By exposing the immune system to the allergen in a controlled way, the body builds up a tolerance to the allergen, and the immune system's response to it is reduced. This can lead to a decrease in allergy symptoms over time.

Allergy shots can be particularly effective for people who have severe allergies, or who don't respond well to other allergy treatments, such as medications. They can also be effective in preventing the development of new allergies or asthma in people with allergies.

However, allergy shots require a long-term commitment, as they typically involve receiving regular injections over a period of several years. They can also carry some risks, such as the potential for an allergic reaction to the shots themselves, which is why they should only be administered under the supervision of a board-certified Allergist.

If you would like to be tested for your allergies or believe you might be a good candidate for allergy shots, Dr. Wendt and the staff at Relieve Allergy, Asthma & Hives would love to help.

Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives is located near Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter, DC Ranch and Grayhawk at 21803 N. Scottsdale Road Ste. 200, on the corners of Deer Valley and Scottsdale Roads, and has convenient evening and early morning hours to accommodate your schedule.

Dr. Wendt is also available for telemedicine appointments as appropriate. Insurance plans accepted. Call 480-500-1902 today to schedule an appointment now and begin your allergy testing and treatment with Dr. Wendt at Relieve Allergy, Asthma & Hives in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Learn more about Dr. Wendt and Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives at www.relieveallergyaz.com and FOLLOW US on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Linked In.

Subscribe to our new YouTube channel and TikTok Channel for demonstrations on proper use of allergy and asthma devices, video education, and Dr. Wendt's news interviews NOW!