Allergic Reactions

Allergies cause annoying and disruptive symptoms that sometimes make daily life a struggle. At Wesleyan Urgent Care, Sara Doolin-Thompson, DNP, and the team provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of allergies to the Owensboro, Kentucky, community. If you have symptoms that suggest allergies and need relief, call today or use this website to schedule an appointment.

What causes allergies?

Allergies occur when your immune system reacts abnormally to usually harmless substances. You can develop allergies to numerous substances, including those in the environment, foods, and medications. Insect stings and pollution can also cause allergies. Some of the most common allergens are pet dander, mold, and pollen.

Your immune system reacts by causing sinus congestion, skin rashes, digestive distress, or other bothersome symptoms.

In people with allergic asthma, allergies cause the airways to shrink, making it difficult to breathe.

What are the symptoms of allergies?

Not everyone experiences allergies in the same way. Symptoms that you may experience include:

• Sneezing
• Stuffy nose
• Runny nose
• Red, itchy, or watery eyes
• Skin rash and welts
• Mouth, lip, or tongue swelling

Allergies to topical substances like lotions or detergents can cause rashes or eczema. Food allergies may result in symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramping, or vomiting.

How do you diagnose allergies?

Sara and the team conduct a thorough review of your symptoms and your medical history. They’ll also do a physical exam to rule out other causes of your symptoms. They may order diagnostic testing, such as for the skin or lungs, to determine the cause and extent of your allergies.

How do you treat allergies?

Wesleyan Urgent Care focuses on getting you relief from allergy symptoms and preventing flare-ups. Sara and the team will help you determine your triggers through testing and observation, so you can avoid them as much as possible.

You may benefit from oral medications, like antihistamines, to control allergy symptoms. Allergy shots are another possible treatment. These help your immune system become accustomed to allergens, so your symptoms reduce or disappear.

If you have a life-threatening allergy, you may need to carry an epinephrine device for emergency use. The team teaches you how to use this treatment. 

If allergies cause you to develop asthma symptoms like trouble breathing and wheezing, the team can prescribe a rescue inhaler to help you breathe better. You may also benefit from a daily inhaler that helps you manage asthma on a day-to-day basis.

If you have symptoms of allergies, call Wesleyan Urgent Care today to arrange an immediate appointment, or book using this website.