Allergy symptoms can include respiratory symptoms, such as  itchy eyes, nose, or throat; nasal congestion, runny nose, watery eyes, chest congestion or wheezing.  Skin symptoms such as hives or generalized itchiness.  Another symptom may be abdominal symptoms such as stomach cramps or diarrhea following specific foods.

Generally, inhaled allergens such as dust mites, tree, grass or weed pollens will produce respiratory symptoms and ingested (food) allergies will produce skin and/or gastrointestinal symptoms or anaphylaxis but both types of allergens (ingested and inhaled) can produce the spectrum of allergy symptoms.

Treatment for inhalant allergies begins with avoidance whenever possible( such as not exposing oneself to cat or dog dander if you react to them). The use of mattress and pillow casements to minimize dust and dust mite exposure during the night may also be beneficial. Using air conditioning early in the season to as late in the season as possible allows de-pollination of the house to further reduce exposure. When this is not enough , medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, intranasal steroid sprays and anti-inflammatory agents can be used to suppress symptoms. When this fails, allergy shots may also help.

Allergy Shots