Allergies and Asthma:
What are they, and why are they so miserable?

According to a study by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, approximately 50% of the U.S. population (between the ages of 6 and 59) tested positive for at least one kind of allergy skin test.  This means they’re more vulnerable to hay fever, eczema, asthma and allergies.

An allergy is a physiological reaction caused when the immune system mistakenly identifies a usually harmless substance as damaging to the body.

"What is an allergic reaction?"

An allergic reaction may occur anywhere in the body where immune system cells are located to fight invaders that are inhaled, swallowed, or come in contact with the skin.
Reactions often result in …
Rhinitis – nasal stuffiness, itching, discharge.  Sneezing and/or itching in ears or roof of mouth.
Allergic Conjunctivitis – red, itchy, watery eyes
Eczema – red, itchy, dry skin
Urticaria – hives or itchy welts
Contact Dermatitis – itchy rash
Asthma – breathing problems such as shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing.  Sometimes this only occurs during exercise, also known as Exercise-Induced Wheezing

"What caused allergies and reactions?"

Although hundreds of ordinary substances could trigger allergic reactions, the most common triggers, called allergens, include the following:
- Pollens
- Molds
- Household dust
- Animal protein (dander, urine, oil from skin)
- Foods
- Medicines
- insect stings or venom

"How do you diagnose allergies?"

Our diagnostic evaluations are supported by state-of-the-art allergy and pulmonary function testing along with highly-specialized clinical laboratory services.
In addition to performing a comprehensive clinical examination and obtaining a medical history, we may use skin testing and/or blood analysis for diagnostic purposes.


“How are allergies and asthma treated?”

We establish an individual treatment plan for each of our patients.  These treatment plans are based on extent of disease, expectations for the course of the disease, and the patient’s opinions and personal preferences.
Treatment includes education and medical management.  Our focus is on symptom prevention.  We carefully review the triggers of allergic reactions, the possibilities for modifying the home environment (this does NOT mean getting rid of pets), and/or foods to avoid.

We also prescribe medications according to severity of disease.  In cases of asthma,  we provide patients with a comprehensive yet easy to understand Asthma Management Plan.

Immunotherapy, or allergy injections, may also be prescribed.

“What makes Allergy & Asthma Care and Prevention, PLLC special?”

Our mission has led to the development of a clinically excellent treatment team committed to being first in the care and prevention of allergies and asthma.

Our practices offers:
-Care to patients of all ages
-Same day sick visits
-Rapid Desensitization Therapy
-Our own providers are On Call during off-hours
-Individualized attention
-Adult and Pediatric expertise and special programs

Sometimes allergy sufferers become so accustomed to their chronic symptoms that they don’t think their problems are unusual.  Yet with the help of a specialist, these symptoms can be prevented or controlled and quality of life greatly improved.