Allergic Reactions

What Is an Allergic Reaction?

Allergic reactions occur when the body develops sensitivity to an outside substance, or allergen. Allergic reactions can happen when an allergen is swallowed, inhaled, injected or touched. Most allergic reactions are caused by:

• Animal dander, dust mites, molds

• Insect stings or bites

• Plants, especially pollens

• Foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish

• Medications

Not all people have an allergic reaction to the same substances, though the ones listed above are among the most common. An allergic reaction may result in angioedema, urticaria, rhinitis, sinusitis or asthma exacerbation. In a worst case scenario, an allergic reaction may lead to anaphylaxis, which can be life threatening. In cases where the allergic reaction is severe enough to cause difficulty breathing, contact a medical professional immediately.

Board Certified allergist Dr. Atul Shah at the Center for Asthma & Allergy specializes in helping people control their allergic reactions. Not all allergic reactions require medications, but it is best to consult an allergy specialist if you suffer an allergic reaction to any substance. Dr. Shah can help you identify what triggers an allergic reaction in you specifically, and help design a course of treatment to lessen the effects or minimize exposure to triggers.

If you’re looking for a world class allergy specialist, come see Dr. Shah. The Center for Asthma & Allergy in Shirley, Long Island, New York has proudly served Suffolk County, as well as patients from across the country and around the world, for over a decade. Please contact Dr. Shah’s office today at 631-395-5464 for a consultation to discuss all of your allergic reaction symptoms.