Allergy Symptoms
Allergic reactions can manifest in a number of different ways. Symptoms can include:
- Flush
- Hives
- Stomach cramping
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Shortness of Breath
- Throat tightness
- Swelling
- …. and more
Allergic reactions typically include at least one of the skin-related symptoms, though not always. If your symptoms are severe and you suspect an allergic reaction, call 911 for evaluation and treatment.
What Am I Allergic To?
After you have been treated, and the symptoms have resolved, the question everyone wants to know is, “Why did this happen?” Identifying the cause of the allergic reaction can be a difficult process. Seeing an allergist can often help you find the cause of the reaction. It can be helpful though if you have already narrowed down the potential causes.
Keep A Diary
Many people jump towards blaming food allergies as the cause of all allergic reactions, but there can be other causes as well. Keeping a diary documenting the recent foods eaten before the reaction is a good first step. Follow that up by recording any changes in detergents, lotions, soaps, shampoos, contacts, changes in the environment, medications, or other unusual exposures that may have led to the reaction.
Allergy Testing
Depending on your history, your allergist may recommend performing allergy testing (such as skin testing or blood testing) to further narrow down the cause. The diary though, is an important part of identifying the trigger, as allergy testing can be limited. In some cases, there may be no test available for your specific trigger, and your allergy specialist must rely on your history and diary to help identify the trigger.
The board-certified allergy specialists at Advanced Allergy and Asthma can help evaluate and treat any allergy you may have and help you get the best in medical care. We have offices in the Fairfield County, CT towns of Danbury, New Milford, Ridgefield, and Norwalk. Contact us at 203-748-7433.
– Yogen A. Dave, M. D.