An allergic reaction is a condition that occurs after your immune system negatively reacts to a specific substance after exposure. Some reactions can be mild or minor, while others need the intervention of a specialist. If you have a Houston allergic reaction that interferes with your breathing, it is time to see a doctor.
Allergic reactions can occur in both children and adults alike. You need to be mindful of your surroundings and identify potential allergens.
Types of Allergic Reactions
There are three types of allergic reactions:
- Mild or minor reactions
- Moderate
- Severe or life-threatening reactions
Causes
The causes of allergic reactions are usually referred to as allergens, and they include:
- Bee stings and other insect bites
- Pollen
- Certain foods like shellfish and nuts
- Certain medications like penicillin and aspirin
- Pet dander
- Mold
- Certain plants
- Dust mites
Symptoms
When you experience an allergic reaction, you might exhibit the following symptoms.
- Sneezing
- Scratchy throat
- Nasal congestion
- Facial, throat, or airway swelling
- Difficulty breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or tightness
- Problems swallowing
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Itchy skin
- Rash
- Blisters
- Hives
- · Purple or red dots on the skin
- · A sudden drop in blood pressure
- · Weakness
- · Dizziness
- · Unconsciousness
- · Abdominal pain or cramping
- · Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting
Allergy testing
Your medical ER provider can recommend allergy testing if you experience an allergy and don’t know the cause. It involves the techniques of finding out what you are allergic to. The techniques include:
- Blood testing
- Skin prick tests
- Elimination food testing
Treatment options
Your treatment will depend on the severity of your allergy. Mild or moderate allergic reactions might not require active treatment other than monitoring. Severe reactions might require medications or CPR. It all depends on the prescription from your healthcare provider.
The treatments include:
- Nasal sprays
- Eye drops
- Emergency epinephrine shots
- Oral medications
Prevention
Even though the treatment options for allergic reactions are effective, it is best to avoid experiencing any allergic reactions. Depending on your allergic reactions and common allergens, your ER provider will instruct you on how to avoid such circumstances.
Use the following tips to prevent severe allergic reactions:
- Always carry or keep your epinephrine shot with you
- Avoid your allergens
- Learn what to do during an allergic reaction emergency
- Keep a diary and observe when you have allergies
- Take your medications as indicated
- Wear a medical alert device like a bracelet or necklace
- Let those around you know your allergens
After using an epinephrine shot, it is crucial to see a medical ER provider and avoid the allergy symptoms returning when the injection wears off. You should always keep track of your new medications. You should call the doctor who made the prescription in case of an allergic reaction.
If you experience an allergic reaction that results in difficulty breathing or throat swelling, visit Houston Medical ER for treatment. Call or book an appointment online and receive the medical attention you deserve. Having your diary with you would be great if you get to the emergency room without a close friend or family.
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