Allergies are among most common chronic conditions worldwide

Allergy symptoms range from making you miserable to putting you at risk for life-threatening reactions. Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) affects between 10 and 30 percent of all adults in the U.S. and as many as 40 percent of children. There are estimates that over 60 million people in the U.S. that have symptoms of allergic rhinitis and this number is increasing.

Most people are unaware of their exposure to allergens. Allergies don’t always result in the common side effects like sneezing, itching eyes or a runny nose; they can manifest in other ways. Identifying and treating unknown allergens is a safe, effective method to significantly reduce or eliminate symptoms.

Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) affects between 10 and 30 percent of all adults in the U.S. and as many as 40 percent of children. There are estimates that over 60 million people in the U.S. that have symptoms of allergic rhinitis and this number is increasing. The misconception is that allergies are primarily in spring and summer months when people react to pollen from grass, trees and weeds. But environmental allergies happen year round even in November and December. In November, indoor molds are more prevalent and in December the culprits are pine trees, mold spores on pine branches.

An allergic reaction begins in the immune system, according to the leading experts in allergy medicine. Our immune system protects us from invading organisms that can cause illness. If you have an allergy, your immune system mistakes another-wise harmless substance as an invader. This substance is called an allergen. The immune system over-reacts to the allergen by producing Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. These anti-bodies travel to cells that release histamine and other chemicals, causing an allergic reaction.

Environmental allergens can some-times be the underlying cause for carious conditions including pain and even depression according to the AAAAI (American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.)

Some of the effects of allergens include Fibromyalgia, Ostero-arthritis, Chronic Pain, Migraines, Asthma, Chronic Inflammation, Muscle Pain, Mood Disorders, Depression, Autoimmune Disorders, Seasonal Allergies, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Sinus Infections and GI Disorders.

Although not seasonal, reaction to certain foods are also part of the equations. The most common food allergies are allergies to milk, eggs, peanuts, soy, and tree nuts such as walnuts and pecans. So keep that in mind this Thanksgiving when you are eating your Aunt Edna’s JellO mold surprise.

Immunotherapy is considered one of the most effective and safest methods to treat allergies. This is achieved by inducing, enhancing, or suppressing an immune response. It’s designed to elicit or amplify an immune response. Studies indicate that immunotherapy has a low risk of side effects and is considered the only true measure to alleviate allergies or symptoms caused by allergies. The treatment can also prevent the onset or development of additional conditions.

“Research show that 85 percent of treated patients become asymptomatic, meaning they experience no symptoms of the allergies.” According to Dr. Jason Weigner, DC - Clinical Director of Discover Optimal Healthcare in Brookhaven. The integrated medical facility offers needle-free testing for 72 different antigens that cause allergies.

“Although we test and treat many people at the start of spring for hay fever caused by pollen, for others, allergies are a year round problem that include chronic pain” states Dr. Weigner.

These environmental allergies include (but not limited to) weeds, grasses, trees, dust mites, molds, dogs, and cats.

Dr. Weigner points out that over the counter and prescription allergy medications may also cause side effects and often only mask or temporarily treat the symptoms. So he suggests you get tested before getting rid of Whiskers or Fido.