Allergies

Allergies are caused by the body's immune system producing antibodies to protect against foreign substances that may cause sickness or infection.

The severity of allergies ranges greatly, and varies from person to person. Most of the time, allergic reactions have minor symptoms. However, when a reaction is severe, it involves several of the body's organ systems, and may cause life-threatening reactions in the body. If this occurs, contact 911 immediately.

Symptoms:

Common triggers of allergies are: certain types of foods, insect stings, medications, and airborne substances like pollen, dander, and dust mites. The symptoms of allergies differ, based upon the trigger.

• Airborne Substances: Congestion, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes.
• Certain Foods: Tingling mouth, swelling of lips, tongue, face or throat, and hives.
• Insect Stings: Swelling around the sting site, itching or hives, cough, tightness in the chest, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
• Medication: Hives, itchy skin, rash, facial swelling, and wheezing.

Treatment:

Allergy medications, allergy shots, and epinephrine shots all help to reduce the reaction of your immune system and ease allergy symptoms. Visit the nearest MedExpress location to discuss these options with a medical provider.

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