Allergies

An allergy occurs when your immune system responds severely and inappropriately to a stimulant that is often otherwise harmless, such as food, dust, pollen or pet dander. Your primary care provider may refer you to an allergist or immunologist for specialized care.

How Allergies Work

When an allergen invades the body, the immune system attempts to isolate and rid the body of it. Allergens can enter your body through:

• Breathing (inhalation)
• Eating or drinking (ingestion)
• Touching (skin contact)

Your immune system reacts by making immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, which release histamine and other chemicals. These chemicals cause allergic symptoms such as congestion, runny nose, watery eyes, itchy skin, swelling, hives, cough, chest tightness, shortness of breath and wheezing. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, including life-threatening reactions like anaphylaxis.

Common Allergy Types

There are two categories of allergens: seasonal and perennial. Seasonal allergens include pollens and occur during the pollination months of plants. Perennial allergens are present year-round and are often considered indoor allergens, such as pet dander, mold and dust mites.

In the United States, common allergens include:

• Pet dander, urine or skin oils
• Bee stings
• Dust and dust mites
• Mold
• Pollen
• Foods such as peanuts, shellfish and eggs
• Latex
• Medications such as penicillin or aspirin
• Feathers
• Industrial chemicals
• Cockroaches
• Surfaces such as nickel

Allergic reactions can happen in your:

• Skin
• Eyes
• Nose and sinuses
• Throat
• Lungs
• Stomach

Common Allergy Symptoms

You may experience:

• Coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
• Hives or itchy welts
• Red, dry, or itchy skin
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Sneezing, congestion, or nasal itching
• Itching in the ears or roof of the mouth
• Swelling

See your CU Medicine primary care provider if you notice any of these symptoms.

Diagnosing Allergies

To determine which allergens you are allergic to, your provider may perform either a skin test or a blood test. A skin test requires the allergen to be put on or into the skin, and changes are observed for 10–15 minutes. Up to 54.3% of US adults have positive reactions to one or more allergens.

Understanding Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate emergency care. It usually happens within minutes of contact with allergens like peanuts or bee stings but can take up to 30 minutes.

What happens:

• The immune system releases chemicals that cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure and narrow the airways
• Breathing becomes difficult and shock may occur

Symptoms:

• Dizziness or fainting
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• Hives or flushed, pale skin
• Weak, rapid pulse

If anaphylaxis occurs:

• Use an epinephrine (EpiPen) right away
• Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately

Risk Factors for Allergies

Anyone can develop allergies, but risk is higher if you have:

• Asthma
• Family history of allergies
• High stress levels
• Exposure to environmental irritants

Allergies are more common in children but can start at any age.

Preventing Allergies

To reduce your risk or control symptoms:

Avoid Known Triggers

• Stay indoors with windows closed during high pollen days
• Wear a mask when doing yard work
• Wash bedding and curtains in hot water if allergic to dust mites
• Use dust mite covers on pillows and mattresses
• Try environmental modifications to remove the allergen, or complete avoidance of the allergen

Track Your Symptoms

• Keep a symptom diary
• Note when and where symptoms occur
• Share this with your healthcare provider

Wear a Medical Alert Accessory

• If you've had a severe allergic reaction, wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace

Managing Allergies

Your doctor will create a treatment plan based on your:

• Symptoms
• Age
• Overall health
• Allergy severity

Treatment Options

1. Medication

• Nasal sprays: relieve congestion and postnasal drip
• Antihistamines: reduce itching and hives
• Anti-inflammatory medications such as steroids: reduce inflammation
• Decongestants: ease nasal stuffiness
• Epinephrine: for emergency use in severe allergic reactions

2. Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy)

• Used for hay fever, asthma, and insect sting allergies
• Weekly injections with allergen extracts
• Gradually reduced over time
• Many people see improvement in 6–18 months

3. Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)

• Taken by mouth daily at home
• Alternative to allergy shots
• Available for certain allergens only

Living with Allergies

Most people with allergies lead healthy, active lives with the right care. By avoiding triggers, using medication, and working with your doctor, you can manage your symptoms and feel your best.

Your CU Medicine primary care provider is here to help you control your allergies and improve your quality of life. Our experienced team offers allergy treatments helping patients combat seasonal, food and perennial allergens.