Family Practice of Atlanta

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Allergy Testing

Causes of Allergies

Airborne allergies include pollens (generated by trees, grass, plants, and weeds), mold spores that float in the air, and dog and cat dander. Allergic reactions occur when the immune system encounters and overreacts to substances that are not genuinely harmful. These substances are called allergens. The end result is nasal allergy symptoms—congestion, sneezing, and an itchy or runny nose. Allergies are a major cause of illness and disability and many people suffer from allergies especially during spring and fall. Determining what causes your allergic reactions can help you to avoid being over exposed to those certain air-borne allergens as well as being prescribed the right medications to treat allergy symptoms.

Your Allergies May Be Inherited

You may have inherited your father's nose, your mother's eyes and your grandmother's allergy to dust mites. Yes, your susceptibility to allergies may be inherited. However, even with a genetic tendency, you don't automatically get allergies. It could take years of exposure to the allergen before allergy symptoms appear. This is why, as people age, they sometimes develop allergies to substances in their environment.

Allergy Testing

Family Practice of Atlanta offers allergy testing and treatment. They will begin your diagnosis by asking questions about your medical history, allergy symptoms, family history, and home, school, or workplace environments. From there, they may do skin tests or other allergy tests to help isolate the specific triggers that cause your allergies.

After determining specific causes of your allergic reactions, they will work with you on developing a plan to help you manage your nasal allergy symptoms - from help in avoiding exposure , to medications, allergy shots or other treatment options.