Aging Gracefully and with Great Health

From Peanuts To Pollen: How Allergy Testing Can Help You

10 May 2022 by For Content

Whether you start to have symptoms during a certain time of year or you have a reaction to eating a specific food, allergies are never fun for anyone. With advances in the medical field, allergy testing has become even more thorough and can help you identify what causes you to have a reaction. Here are three things to consider when speaking to your doctor regarding allergy testing. 

You Experience Symptoms

Everyone who has allergies knows when the dreaded allergy season approaches. You may suddenly get itchy and watery eyes, develop a cough, and even find yourself with itchy skin. While experiencing seasonal allergies can be an annoyance for many, it can be debilitating for others. If you notice that your symptoms are getting out of control and you experience them on a regular basis, speak with your healthcare provider about getting tested for allergies. For more serious reactions, over-the-counter meds simply won't cut it. By getting tested for allergies, you and your doctor can hone in on exactly what is causing a reaction in you and prescribe a medication that will target your allergies. 

Concerns Over a Reaction

Though uncommon, some people may experience severe side effects of coming into contact with an allergen. Some may react to certain foods like soy or nuts while others have a reaction from the sting of a bee or wasp. Hives, swollen eyes, itchy skin, and difficulty breathing can all be experienced in what is known as anaphylaxis. In the most severe cases, some go into anaphylactic shock which can cause nausea, diminished pulse and blood pressure, and the closing of airways. If you suspect that you have this condition, speak with your doctor immediately as they can prescribe an epinephrine pen to provide you immediate care in the event of a reaction. 

What's Passed Down

Many may not be aware, but allergies can actually be passed down through your parents and, likewise, to your own children. Getting tested for allergies can help identify which allergies you may have inherited from your family as well as what to look out for with your own children. This is especially useful in diagnosing allergies that cause a more severe effect as described earlier. If you have children, it's helpful to understand that just because you have allergies does not mean your child may necessarily inherit them. For allergies that concern you or cause a more serious reaction, such as a severe reaction to peanuts, getting tested will certainly help. Speak with your doctor regarding any concerns you have regarding hereditary allergies and what steps forward to take. 

Share

Search