Allergy Doctor in Buckeye, Prescott, Phoenix, and Sun City, AZ
At Centra Internal Medicine, Dr. Manish, MD, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of immune system problems, including allergies, enabling patients to better control their symptoms and enhance their quality of life. For more information, please contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations in Sun City, AZ, Phoenix, AZ, Prescott, AZ, and Buckeye, AZ.
Table of Contents:
What are allergies?
What is an allergic reaction?
Who do allergies affect?
What is the difference between a cold and allergies?
Allergies are an overreaction of the body’s immune system in response to a substance known as an allergen, which may not pose any harm to the body. These allergens are capable of ranging from pollen and dust to certain foods and medications and can enter the body through ingestion and inhalation or contact with the skin.
The immune system is designed to be able to protect us from harmful invaders but can mistakenly identify these harmless substances as dangerous. It then produces antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE) to combat these perceived threats, resulting in allergic reactions.
Allergic reactions fluctuate from person to person and depend on the type of allergen involved. Mild reactions may include sneezing, runny or blocked nose, red, itchy, or watery eyes, wheezing and coughing, and an itchy rash or hives. In more severe cases, it is possible for an allergic reaction to escalate to anaphylaxis which is a potentially life-threatening condition, one that demands immediate medical attention and is carefully managed at our clinic.
Allergies are capable of occurring at any age and can be triggered by a variety of factors. Some individuals might be genetically predisposed to allergies, while others develop them due to environmental factors. At Centra Internal Medicine, we offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for all types of allergies, including seasonal allergies, such as hay fever.
Diagnosis of allergies at our clinic typically involves a combination of medical history and allergy testing to identify specific allergens. Our treatment approach usually involves avoiding the allergen, managing symptoms with over-the-counter or prescription medications, and in some cases, immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots.
Preventing allergic reactions is crucial, but where avoidance of the allergen is not possible, we provide our patients with the necessary tools, such as an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen), to manage severe allergic reactions. We believe that while allergies can be bothersome and potentially life-threatening, they can generally be managed through diagnosis, treatment, as well as preventive measures.
At Centra Internal Medicine, we understand that an allergic reaction is a disproportionate overreaction of your body’s immune system to a typically harmless substance that is known as an allergen. Our dedicated healthcare professionals are well-versed in identifying these allergens and managing the exaggerated responses, which we recognize as allergic reactions.
Our team knows that allergic reactions can occur when an allergen enters your body, either through ingestion, inhalation, injection, or skin contact. The immune system, while attempting to protect the body, produces antibodies that lead to the release of inflammatory mediators. This causes the typical symptoms of an allergic reaction, which can range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening emergencies.
Centra Internal Medicine is experienced in dealing with a wide range of allergic reactions. These can include symptoms such as hives, nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and, in severe cases, dizziness or fainting. We deal with several types of allergic reactions, from skin reactions to respiratory reactions, gastrointestinal reactions, and eye reactions.
Common allergens can include dust, pollen, pet dander, certain foods, insect stings, latex, and certain medications.
At Centra Internal Medicine, we understand that allergies are a global health concern that impacts a significant portion of the population, and they can do so regardless of age, gender, or race. It is estimated up to 30% of children and 10% of adults worldwide suffer from some type of allergy, and these conditions can develop at any time, often first appearing during childhood or adolescence.
Certain factors may increase a person’s susceptibility to allergies. Individuals who have a family history of allergies or asthma are more likely to develop allergies themselves, suggesting that genetics plays a crucial role. This is a key consideration in our diagnostics and treatment plans.
Allergies can also strike at any age. Children can be particularly vulnerable due to their still-developing immune systems being more responsive to allergens. Early exposure to certain types of allergens, such as dust mites or pet dander, may also increase a child’s risk of developing allergies. That’s why our team is committed to early detection and treatment of allergies in children.
Moreover, people residing in urban areas or those exposed to certain environmental triggers, such as pollen or dust mites, may also be more prone to allergies. That’s why at Centra Internal Medicine, we make sure to consider your living environment when designing your personalized treatment plan.
Additionally, individuals with certain health conditions like asthma, eczema, or other immune system disorders may have a heightened risk of developing allergic reactions.
At Centra Internal Medicine, we are committed to providing comprehensive healthcare for adults, including the diagnosis and treatment of both colds and allergies. Colds and allergies are common respiratory conditions that may cause similar symptoms, but they are distinct conditions and require different treatment approaches.
Colds are typically caused by viruses and symptoms include a clear nasal discharge, sore throat, sneezing, coughing, a low-grade fever, a mild headache, and muscle aches. Treatment primarily focuses on relieving symptoms and includes rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications.
Allergies, on the other hand, are an immune response to a harmless substance, or allergen. Symptoms of allergies can include sneezing, a runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, nasal congestion, wheezing, skin rashes, hives, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis. Allergies can persist for as long as you continue to be exposed to the allergen, and treatment often involves avoiding the allergen and managing symptoms with medications or through immunotherapy.
At Centra Internal Medicine, our team uses individualized testing and treatment plans to pinpoint triggers and offer focused therapies, such as immunotherapy or medication, to reduce allergic responses and avoid consequences. For more information, please contact us or schedule an appointment online. We serve patients from Sun City AZ, Phoenix AZ, Prescott AZ, Buckeye AZ, Westpark AZ, Liberty AZ, Peoria AZ, Glendale AZ, Diamond Valley AZ, Iron Springs AZ, Bumstead AZ, EI Mirage AZ, and surrounding areas.
Additional Services You May Need
Additional Services You May Need
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