Some allergies produce minor symptoms. Others are deadly. The symptoms you’ll experience vary by allergy. Food allergies can produce life-threatening reactions, while seasonal allergies can be a nuisance. The best allergist in Las Vegas can make a diagnosis and help you find relief through allergy management techniques, lifestyle changes, and medications.

Allergies in the United States
Today, experts estimate that up to 40% of the population has at least one allergy. Food allergies alone affect more than 30 million Americans, including 5.6 million children. In the past ten years, allergy rates have increased significantly. Family history also increases the likelihood of developing an allergy. Having one parent with allergies increases your chance of developing an allergy by 25%, while that number rises to 50% if both parents have allergies.

Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies can occur throughout the year. Since individuals with seasonal allergies may be sensitive to more than one allergen, it’s important to have allergy testing to determine the responsible allergen and get adequate care.

If you have seasonal allergies, your symptoms may include:

● Sneezing
● Nasal congestion
● Itchy, watery eyes
● Itchy throat

People often confuse allergy symptoms with the common cold. However, a cold is short-lived and may produce a fever. Allergies produce chronic symptoms but no fever. If you notice that the same symptoms appear like clockwork during a certain time of the year, make a note of your symptoms and when they occur for an allergist. Depending on your symptoms and their effect on your quality of life, an allergist may recommend ways to reduce allergy exposure or prescribe medications for relief.

Food Allergies
Food allergies are also common. Nuts, soy, and dairy are some of the most common food allergens. Parents should note that about 40% of children with one food allergy develop additional food allergies.

Like seasonal allergies, food allergies produce symptoms. However, symptoms associated with food allergies can be more severe. Food allergy symptoms include:

● Itchy skin
● Swelling of the tongue, lips, and face
● Difficulty breathing
● Hives
● Digestive problems
● Respiratory distress
● Anaphylaxis

If your symptoms are severe, it’s important to get allergy testing right away if you suspect that you or a child has an allergy. A specialist can recommend foods that are safe to eat and suggest ones to avoid. He or she can also recommend medications such as epinephrine to control food allergy symptoms if you are at risk of a life-threatening reaction.

At the least, allergies are no fun to deal with. At worst, they can be deadly. If you or a loved one suffers from allergies or asthma, don’t wait any longer for relief. Contact the office of Dr. Tottori, the best allergist in Las Vegas, for help. You can reach us online or by calling (702) 240 4233.