{"id":268,"date":"2021-11-08T18:19:59","date_gmt":"2021-11-08T23:19:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.fm1.dev\/lasting-allergy-relief-is-in-season\/allergy-types\/"},"modified":"2022-09-15T12:30:42","modified_gmt":"2022-09-15T16:30:42","slug":"allergy-types","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/allergist\/allergy-types\/","title":{"rendered":"Allergy Types"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><script type=\"application\/ld+json\"><br \/>\n{<br \/>\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",<br \/>\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",<br \/>\n  \"mainEntity\": [{<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"What are seasonal allergies?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"Allergies fall under two categories: seasonal and perennial. The latter occurs year-round, while seasonal allergies appear during specific times of the year, generally during spring when trees and flowers bloom. They can also occur in the fall, when ragweed is at its worst. Seasonal allergies are often referred to as hay fever.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n  }, {<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"How can you reduce seasonal allergies?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"There are steps you can take to reduce seasonal allergy symptoms. Avoiding the allergy trigger is first and foremost. Stay indoors when pollen counts are at their peak, especially on dry, windy days. This usually occurs during the early morning and evening hours. Close windows and run the air conditioner. <\/p>\n<p>If you have to go outside, wear sunglasses and consider a dust mask. When driving, keep the windows rolled up and the AC running. Back indoors, change out of the clothing you wore, and shower to rinse away pollen from your skin and hair. Using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter indoors can help keep the air clean.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n  }, {<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"What are mold allergies?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"Individuals with mold allergies experience immune system reactions whenever mold spores are inhaled. Symptoms are similar to those that occur with other types of allergies and include a stuffy or runny nose, itchy and\/or watery eyes, wheezing, cough and postnasal drip. Some people might develop a rash or hives.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n }, {<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"How can you prevent mold allergies?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"Take steps to prevent mold growth when possible. Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the home, and eliminate water sources from moisture-prone areas such as basements. Use an air conditioner with a HEPA filter, and make sure your home is properly ventilated. Be sure to run the ventilation fan when taking a shower or bath. Avoid installing carpet in bathrooms and basements.\"<br \/>\n }<br \/>\n  }, {<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"How are mold allergies treated?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"Treating mold allergies involves the same medications you would use for dealing with seasonal allergies. Antihistamines, decongestants and nasal sprays can all help relieve symptoms. A prescription drug called Singulair has proven helpful in the treatment of mold allergies.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n  }, {<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"What causes food allergies?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"Your immune system\u2019s primary goal is to keep your body healthy. In the case of food allergies, your immune system mistakes harmless food proteins as a threat and attacks. Large amounts of immunoglobulin E (IgE), an antibody, are produced. IgE causes the release of histamine and other chemicals, which can trigger the symptoms of an allergic reaction.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n }, {<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"What foods cause allergies?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"While any food has the potential to cause an allergic reaction, there are eight foods that account for almost 90 percent of all food allergies:Peanuts. Tree nuts. Milk. Eggs. Soy. Wheat. Fish. Shellfish. \"<br \/>\n }<br \/>\n  }, {<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"What are the symptoms of food allergens?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"The symptoms of food allergies can range from mild to life threatening. Mild symptoms include:Hives. Itchy mouth. Nausea or vomiting. Stomach pain. Sneezing. Severe symptoms include: Swelling of the lips, tongue and\/or throat. Shortness of breath. Turning blue. Any one of these severe symptoms or a combination of mild symptoms can be the sign of a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis. In the event of this reaction, epinephrine should be administered and the patient should be taken to the hospital immediately. \"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n  }, {<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"What causes pet allergies?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"Allergies to dogs and cats are the most common pet allergy. What you are allergic to is not the animal itself, it is the allergens the animal produces. These allergens are usually found in the animal\u2019s hair, dander, saliva and urine.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n }, {<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"What are the symptoms of insect sting allergies?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"An allergy to insect stings goes far beyond the pain associated with the stings themselves. Swelling, redness, flushing, hives, itching and the life threatening reaction called anaphylaxis can occur. Anaphylaxis typically includes trouble breathing, vomiting, low blood pressure, fainting and cardiac arrest. An immediate injection of epinephrine (adrenaline) is the only treatment for this reaction.\"<br \/>\n }<br \/>\n }, {<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"What causes drug allergies?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"Penicillin and antibiotics containing sulfa drugs are the most likely to cause an allergic reaction. The symptoms of a drug reaction can range from a mild skin reaction and itching to more severe wheezing, vomiting or anaphylaxis.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n }<br \/>\n ]<br \/>\n  }<br \/>\n<\/script><\/p>\n\n\n<p>There are many allergens; each type has its own set of symptoms that range from mild to life-threatening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Seasonal Allergies<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"853\" src=\"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/iStock-169087114-1280x853.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/iStock-169087114-1280x853.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/iStock-169087114-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/iStock-169087114-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/iStock-169087114-256x171.jpg 256w, https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/iStock-169087114.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Allergies fall under two categories: seasonal and perennial. The latter occurs year-round, while seasonal allergies appear during specific times of the year, generally during spring when trees and flowers bloom. They can also occur in the fall, when ragweed is at its worst. Seasonal allergies are often referred to as hay fever.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Can You Reduce Seasonal Allergies?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are steps you can take to reduce seasonal allergy symptoms. Avoiding the allergy trigger is first and foremost. Stay indoors when pollen counts are at their peak, especially on dry, windy days. Pollen counts are typically highest in the high heat of the day, mid-day. Early morning or evening outdoor activity is preferred. Close windows and run the air conditioner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have to go outside, wear sunglasses and consider a dust mask. When driving, keep the windows rolled up and the AC running. Once back indoors, shower to rinse away pollen from your skin and hair. Afterward, wear a new set of clothing. Using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter indoors can help keep the air clean.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Over-the-counter medications can help relieve seasonal allergy symptoms. Antihistamines will help reduce sneezing, itching, watery eyes and runny nose. Decongestants help with nasal congestion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Irrigating the nasal passages with a Neti pot or similar rinse can also prove beneficial. If medical treatment is ineffective, talk to your allergist about immunotherapy options (allergy shots).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mold Allergies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Individuals with mold allergies experience immune system reactions whenever they inhale mold spores. Symptoms are similar to those that occur with other types of allergies and include a stuffy or runny nose, itchy and\/or watery eyes, wheezing, cough and postnasal drip. Some people might develop a rash or hives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mold allergies can trigger asthma attacks in those who are susceptible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Molds are common both indoors and outside. They are a type of fungus that thrives in moist, dark places. Not all molds cause allergic reactions, and not everybody who breathes in mold spores will experience symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Who Has the Highest Risk?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Those whose work exposes them to mold (e.g., farmers, loggers, wine growers), who live in moist or humid environments or who live or work in a building with excess moisture or poor ventilation have a higher risk of developing mold allergies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Can You Prevent Mold Allergies?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Take steps to prevent mold growth when possible. Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the home and eliminate water sources from moisture-prone areas such as basements. Use an air conditioner with a HEPA filter. Be sure to run the ventilation fan when taking a shower or bath. Avoid installing carpet in bathrooms and basements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Are They Treated?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Treating mold allergies involves the same medications you would use for dealing with seasonal allergies. Antihistamines, decongestants and nasal sprays can all help relieve symptoms. A prescription drug called Singulair has proven helpful in the treatment of mold allergies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Food Allergies<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"961\" src=\"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/iStock-901804268-2-1280x961.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-685\" srcset=\"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/iStock-901804268-2-1280x961.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/iStock-901804268-2-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/iStock-901804268-2-1536x1153.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/iStock-901804268-2-256x192.jpg 256w, https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/iStock-901804268-2.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Your <a href=\"https:\/\/kidshealth.org\/en\/teens\/immune.html\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/kidshealth.org\/en\/teens\/immune.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">immune system\u2019s primary goal<\/a> is to keep your body healthy. In the case of food allergies, your immune system mistakes harmless food proteins as a threat and attacks them. Large amounts of immunoglobulin E (IgE), an antibody, are produced. IgE causes the release of histamine and other chemicals, which can trigger the symptoms of an allergic reaction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Foods Cause Allergies?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While any food has the potential to cause an allergic reaction, eight foods account for almost 90 percent of all food allergies:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"list-col-2\"><li>Peanuts<\/li><li>Tree nuts<\/li><li>Milk<\/li><li>Eggs<\/li><li>Soy<\/li><li>Wheat<\/li><li>Fish<\/li><li>Shellfish<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are the Symptoms of Food Allergens?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The symptoms of food allergies can range from mild to life-threatening. Mild symptoms include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"list-col-2\"><li>Hives<\/li><li>Itchy mouth<\/li><li>Nausea or vomiting<\/li><li>Stomach pain<\/li><li>Sneezing<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Severe symptoms include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Swelling of the lips, tongue and\/or throat<\/li><li>Shortness of breath<\/li><li>Turning blue<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Any one of these severe symptoms or a combination of mild symptoms can be the sign of a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Antihistamines, such as Benadryl or Zyrtec, may treat mild symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While there are drugs available to treat symptoms of an allergic reaction, the only way to prevent one is through strict avoidance of the problematic foods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pet Allergies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Allergies to dogs and cats are the most common pet allergy. The allergens the animal produces are what your immune system reacts to. These allergens may be in the animal\u2019s hair, dander, saliva and urine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms Include:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Common symptoms of pet allergens are sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, facial pain, coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and wheezing, watery, red or itchy eyes and a skin rash or hives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Insect Sting Allergies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An allergy to insect stings goes far beyond the pain associated with the stings themselves. Swelling, redness, flushing, hives, itching and anaphylaxis can occur. Anaphylaxis typically includes trouble breathing, vomiting, low blood pressure, fainting and cardiac arrest. An immediate injection of epinephrine (adrenaline) is the only treatment for this reaction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Honeybees, hornets, wasps, yellow jackets and fire ants are the five known insects to cause an allergic reaction. Anyone who has experienced a reaction to a sting in the past is at risk of experiencing a worse reaction in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Drug Allergies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Drug allergies are hard to predict. Individuals may be fine with medication and then have a reaction the next time they take it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Penicillin and antibiotics containing sulfa drugs are the most likely to cause an allergic reaction. The symptoms of a drug reaction can range from mild skin irritation and itching to more severe symptoms like wheezing, vomiting or anaphylaxis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><div class=\"content-cta\">\r\n<p>Call Western Michigan ENT at <a href=\"tel:+12313989536\" class=\"phone \"><span class=\"phone-number\">(231) 398-9536<\/span><\/a> for more information or to schedule an appointment.<\/p>\r\n<\/div><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>There are many allergens; each type has its own set of symptoms that range from mild to life-threatening. Seasonal Allergies Allergies fall under two categories: seasonal and perennial. The latter occurs year-round, while seasonal allergies appear during specific times of the year, generally during spring when trees and flowers bloom. They can also occur in&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":267,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_titles_title":"","_seopress_titles_desc":"","_seopress_robots_index":""},"service_tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/268"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=268"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/268\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1034,"href":"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/268\/revisions\/1034"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/267"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=268"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"service_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/westernmichiganent.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/service_tags?post=268"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}