Serious Complications that Come from Allergies
Allergies cause symptoms that are uncomfortable and can stop you from daily activities. Sneezing, watery eyes, coughing and wheezing can be energy-sapping when they appear. It’s hard to meet family, school and job commitments when you aren’t feeling quite right. Even further than simple inconvenience, serious complications may be caused by allergies as well. If you or a loved one are dealing with severe allergies, contact your doctor. These serious side effects include;
Asthma
When someone has an allergy, the risk for developing asthma increases greatly. This is caused by an immune system reaction that affects the airways and breathing. In the cases of people with allergies, asthma happens due to exposure to an allergen in the environment, which is called allergy-induced asthma. Controlling allergies helps to reduce the number of asthma attacks caused by allergy irritations.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
People with allergies can see allergic reactions in their skin as well. It’s common to see eczema, a red rash that’s itchy, on people who have allergies or asthma. When someone has an allergic reaction to, for example dust or pollen, the body releases histamines. This release can take form in a reaction such as sneezing, but can also cause eczema. Treating allergies to prevent reactions helps control eczema and other skin rashes.
Sinusitis, Ear and Lung Infections
Sinusitis and infections of the ears or lungs increase if a person has hay fever, a pet allergy or a mold allergy. Allergic reactions causing increased mucous in the sinuses, ears and lungs create an environment for an infection to grow. By treating allergies to prevent the buildup of mucous, these infections can be avoided.
Allergic Fungal Sinusitis
Fungal complications can occur in the sinuses, and sometimes the lungs, from allergies. There is an increased risk of a fungal infection in these areas of the body when a person is allergic to mold. Thick fungal debris in the sinus cavities develops and must be surgically removed so the allergen is no longer in the body. Without proper treatment, this condition may come back. Treating allergies with immunotherapy can help prevent its recurrence.
Treatment
The first step in making sure serious complications don’t arise from allergies is to find out what you may be allergic to. A doctor will run tests to see what your body reacts to and prescribe treatment based on the findings.
The inflammation and congestion caused by poorly treated allergies can lead to both acute and chronic conditions. It’s important to make sure allergies are under control by having them treated on a regular basis. When you aren’t feeling well, it’s important to see a doctor to get to the root of the problem.
The spring season can be especially irritating to people with allergies, due to the increased pollen count from the growth of flowers, grass and tree blossoms. If you don’t feel quite right, give your doctor a call to rule out or treat existing allergies.
By controlling allergic reactions before it leads to side effects, you’ll feel more comfortable, avoid more serious complications and have an improved quality of life. If you think you need to be tested for allergies contact Rodriguez MD to schedule an appointment.