Can You Develop Allergies?

When we’re exposed to certain allergens, we protect ourselves by developing antibodies in our lungs, skin, and gastrointestinal tract. If we come in contact with that particular antigen again, it might cause an allergic reaction. Although this process occurs most frequently in childhood, we often contract new allergies later in life, especially during our 20s and 30s.

If you’re experiencing new or recurrent allergies, or other medical issues, contact Preventative Medicine Specialist Andrea C. Beavers, PA-C at Star Treatment Healthcare Services and Med Spa in Dallas, Texas, to regain control and manage symptoms.

Why now?

No one understands precisely why certain allergens suddenly cause an allergic reaction as never before. One theory is the hygiene hypothesis, which proposes that living in a more hygienic environment and overusing antibacterial products may cause our immune systems to overreact to harmless ingredients, such as pet dander, causing an allergic reaction. Other possibilities include:

• Increased levels of pollution
• Sedentary lifestyles, aging, or illnesses that weaken the immune system
• Encountering different vegetation after moving to a new location
• More time spent indoors without adequate ventilation, exposing us to dust particles and more

Mrs. Beavers helps you make minor lifestyle adjustments that could play a major role in controlling your allergies.

How allergies evolve

Your body reacts to certain substances by creating immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies that attach to various cells, causing a release of histamine. This produces inflammation, resulting in unpleasant and even life-threatening allergy symptoms. Reactions to allergens range from simple sniffles and watery eyes to flu-like fever, rashes, and respiratory problems. If you’re unsure of the cause of your allergies or want help relieving symptoms, consult Mrs. Beavers.

Allergic anaphylaxis

Call 911 for severe reactions, such as anaphylaxis, which can impact your breathing and may be life threatening. Symptoms range from dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea to wheezing, vomiting, and flushed skin. It can be caused by a variety of harmless and not-so-harmless issues, such as:

• Peanuts
• Insect stings
• Shellfish
• Latex
• Medications

We ensure you’re prepared for emergencies with adrenaline medication, such as an epinephrine pen. 

Help is on the way 

If you’re unsure what’s causing your allergies, Mrs. Beavers pinpoints the culprits, and can refer you to an allergist, when needed. Here are ten healthy ways she recommends to keep allergies at bay:

1. Wash your hands and clothing after coming in contact with an allergen
2. Take antihistamine medications
3. Avoid the allergen completely
4. Keep doors and windows shut during high-pollen days
5. Take allergy shots to slowly build immunity to various triggers
6. Consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to fortify your immune system
7. Drink lots of water to flush out the toxins
8. Try acupuncture or steam to clear nasal passages
9. Clean your home and office with natural cleaners, such as orange oil and baking soda
10. Clear the air with HEPA filters

You may also want to consume supplements and/or foods containing quercetin, which may produce an anti-inflammatory and antihistamine effect. These include:

• Citrus fruits
• Apples
• Onions
• Grapes
• Dark cherries
• Blueberries

Contact Preventative Medicine Specialist Andrea C. Beavers, PA-C and our caring team at Star Treatment Healthcare Services and Med Spa to schedule an appointment and chase those worrisome allergies away.