Immunotherapy (allergy shots) is an alternative if medical therapy is not helpful. Allergy shots do not always help, but they can improve symptoms in many people. They are usually given by an allergist.
Immunotherapy consists of a series of injections over several months. The shots contain very small amounts of the antigen causing the hay fever reaction. The idea is to minimize your reaction...
Most likely you or someone you know has allergies. The telltale itchy, puffy, watery eyes and red, stuffy nose signal changes in the seasons in homes and workplaces across the country. What these people suffer from is allergic rhinitis, or hay fever. The medical name for this condition refers to stuffy and itchy nose (rhin), the most common symptom.
Hay fever is an allergic reaction. It is...
Hay fever is an allergic reaction. It is your immune system's response to foreign material in the air you breathe. Hay fever usually refers to allergies to outdoor, airborne materials such as pollens and molds.
About 15-20% of the population of the United States has some degree of hay fever. It is found equally in both men and women. Usually hay fever is seasonal, but it can last all year...
Generally, allergy shots are safe, with minimal side effects. There are no long-term complications associated with this form of therapy, but there is a small risk of allergic reactions immediately following the injection. These allergic reactions can be severe.
Typically, allergy shots may cause slight swelling or redness at the injection site. These reactions can occur immediately after...
For someone with a food allergy, eating or swallowing even a tiny amount of a particular food can cause symptoms such as skin rash, nausea, vomiting, cramping, and diarrhea.
Because the body is reacting to something that is otherwise harmless, this type of allergic reaction is often called a hypersensitivity reaction. Rarely, a severe allergic reaction can cause a life-threatening set of...
Hay fever does not always require medical treatment. Avoid known or suspected allergens. Hay fever symptoms lend themselves to home treatment.
Gargle with warm salt water, 1-2 tablespoons of table salt in 8 ounces of warm water, to soothe a mildly sore throat. Take nonprescription antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to relieve symptoms of sneezing, runny nose, and itchy throat...
One or more prior severe reactions to an insect sting place you at an increased risk of severe reactions with each sting.
It is important to let the health care provider know that you have been stung and whether you have had reactions in the past. Be prepared to tell the health care provider all of the medications you have taken for the sting, both prescription and over-the-counter. Don't...
The top priority for the medical team is ensuring that your breathing and blood pressure are protected. If you are having difficulty breathing, you may be given oxygen via a tube in your nose or by face mask.
In cases of severe respiratory distress, you may be put on a mechanical ventilator. This is temporary until the effects of the reaction abate. If your blood pressure is too low, an IV...
Most insect stings cause some pain and swelling in the area of the sting, called a local reaction. People who are allergic to bee stings or who have been stung many times may react more dramatically.
A severe local reaction may lead to pain and swelling that increase over the next few hours and becoming very uncomfortable. This does not constitute an anaphylactic reaction. The reaction must...
Take precautions to avoid insect stings in the future. Avoid nests or hives of stinging insects. Do not wear bright clothing or perfumes that might attract bees and wasps.
Remain calm and quiet around flying insects. Move slowly. Take special care when around food or drinks outdoors, as at cookouts or picnics. Stinging insects are attracted to foods, especially sweet foods such as soft...
