Written by Reagan Flamboe, LPC-MH
Gesundheit! This is often said when one sneezes, but did you know what it means? It a German word that means “health.” So if you hear this or say it, you are being wished or wishing that person good health!
Did you also know that more than 50 million Americans have an allergic reaction each year? According to the Cleveland Clinic, allergies are the 6th leading cause of long-term illness in the US. Allergies are not picky on who they attack. They are common among all of us and most likely to develop if your biological parent had them as well. In the Midwest, we experience allergies during certain seasons, especially during windy conditions.
There are different types of allergies, causes and symptoms that are important to be aware of. Oxford dictionary defines Allergies as a damaging immune response by the body to a substance, especially pollen, fur, a particular food, or dust, to which it has become hypersensitive. When you encounter an allergy your body may react in several different ways and in variations of severity. Sneezing, itching, runny nose, watery eyes and maybe a headache. More severe could be such things as trouble breathing, hives or a rash, vomiting or swelling of some part of the body, and anaphylaxis. This can occur within 30mins of ingesting food or are stung by an insect. Most people experience trouble breathing and throat starting to close. If this happens, of course go to the ER right away. Some people who are aware of their allergy will often have an epi-pen to help resolve symptoms.
Causes to an allergen can range as well for people. Certain foods that we ingest can release an antibody which turns into an allergic reaction with in minutes. Another source is that of inhalants which are airborne and you breathe it into your body, Most common during certain seasons, especially during extreme pollen conditions. Pollen has become soo high that at times it can be seen on some weather related radars. For those that have asthma, this can worsen symptoms. We may have a reaction to some medications that are prescribed, over the counter or herbal. Don’t forget to inform your medical provider if you are aware of such medications that create an allergy for you. Latex can cause an allergic reaction for some people. Such things include, latex gloves, condoms, balloons, rubber balls and bandages. For condoms, bandages and gloves, there are other options available for you to safely use. Being stung or bitten by insects or any venomous creature can cause both mild to extreme reactions.
Now, don’t get your tissues in a bunch, there are ways to be tested and treated! If you want to learn what allergens impact you, you can ask your medical provider who may refer you for testing or to an allergist specialist/immunologist. The test could include, blood tests, skin tests or trying special diets. Treating your allergies is sometimes understanding your symptoms then looking for either over the counter solutions or your medical provider may prescribe a medication to treat those symptoms. If it is possible that you may experience anaphylaxis, it is best practice to carry an epi-pen prescribed by your medical provider.
It is also important to note that allergies also can play a role in our mental health. We may feel more sluggish than usual, moody and lack an appetite. We may want to avoid being outdoors so that may limit our social activities. Sleep could also be an issue if we can’t breathe well or we are uncomfortable. If you currently are struggling with mental health symptoms, allergies can make those symptoms worse.
Remember, allergies happen! Most can be treated in different ways so that we can continue to keep moving forward. As always, reach out to us at Conklin Clinics and make an appointment with any of our medical providers. If you would like to learn more please check out these resources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8610-allergies
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6164754/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hay-fever/in-depth/seasonal-allergies/art-20048343
Request an Appointment
"*" indicates required fields