What does AAAAI mean in PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Allergies can be identified through a combination of medical history, physical exam, and allergy tests. Your doctor may recommend skin prick testing or IgE blood tests to determine what you are allergic to. Allergy tests can also identify if you are a candidate for immunotherapy.

The primary difference between an allergy and intolerance is that an allergy triggers an immune system response while an intolerance does not. An allergic reaction occurs when your body's immune system reacts to allergens by producing antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). Common allergic reactions include sneezing, itching, hives, and asthma attacks. An intolerance does not involve the immune system; instead it causes symptoms such as indigestion or bloating due to the body's inability to digest certain substances.

There are several types of medications used to treat allergies including antihistamines, decongestants, mast cell inhibitors, steroids and immunotherapy. Antihistamines work by blocking histamine receptors in the body that cause sneezing, itching and inflammation. Decongestants help reduce swelling in the nasal passages caused by inflammation which improves breathing. Mast cell inhibitors work by reducing inflammation and stabilizing mast cells which prevents them from releasing histamine into the bloodstream. Steroids can be taken orally or inhaled to reduce inflammation in order for other treatments to work more effectively. Immunotherapy involves injections or pills that contain small doses of allergens so that the patient’s body becomes accustomed to it over time which reduces sensitivity to allergens in general.

Yes! Taking steps at home such as keeping windows closed during peak pollen times, changing clothes after being outside for long periods of time and limiting outdoor activities during high pollen hours can all help protect against exacerbating your allergies. It is also important to avoid foods that trigger allergic reactions like peanuts and shellfish as well as having routine air filter maintenance done on a regular basis in order to keep your home’s air clean.

If your child has been diagnosed with allergies it is important that they take all prescribed medication and follow any avoidance protocols recommended by their healthcare provider such as keeping windows closed during peak pollen times or avoiding triggers like certain foods. It is also important for parents encourage their children with allergies to lead normal lives and practice good hygiene habits such as washing hands regularly especially after contact with pets or outdoor activities.

Signs of severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) include difficulty breathing, dizziness or lightheadedness, rapid heart rate, abdominal pain/cramping/vomiting, swelling around mouth area (tongue/lips), weak pulse or loss of consciousness.

Asthmatic symptoms usually include shortness of breath with wheezing sounds upon exhaling; persistent coughing; chest tightness; rapid breathing; fatigue while exercising; feeling faint or dizzy; experiencing difficulty sleeping due to coughing fits;and blue lips from lack of oxygen.