Ask The Allergist
Our "Ask The Allergist" section features articles that are reviewed by an allergy doctor, offering you the opportunity to learn about allergies and asthma.
Whether you're seeking guidance from an allergist in Richmond, VA, curious about allergy testing procedures, or looking to understand the latest in allergy care, our blog page will help you learn more about current issues and answer common questions.
What is allergies?
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What are Allergies?
Allergies are a hypersensitivity disorder of the immune system. Allergic reactions occur when a person’s immune system reacts to substances that are normally harmless. Allergies are not only bothersome, but some have been linked to chronic respiratory illnesses such as sinusitis and asthma. Allergic reactions can also be severe and, in some cases, fatal.
What are Allergens?
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What Are Allergens and How They Affect You
Allergens are the substances that can cause allergies. Technically, an allergen is a non-parasitic antigen capable of stimulating a Type-I hypersensitivity reaction in atopic individuals. In layman’s terms, an allergen like pollen or a chemical is what causes people with allergies to sneeze or have an “allergic reaction”.
Immunization Shot
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What is Immunization Shot
Immunization (or Immunisation), is the process by which an individual's immune system becomes fortified against an agent (known as the immunogen). An immunization shot is the actual injection used to introduce a vaccine that provides immunization.
When your immune system is exposed to molecules that are foreign to your body, it will generate an immune response, but it can also develop the ability to respond to subsequent encounters. This is known as active immunization.
How do you get asthma?
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How Do You Get Asthma? Causes and Risk Factors
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease caused by inflammation of the airways. Common symptoms are wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath and chest tightness. Asthma is believed to be caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Although you cannot control your genetic makeup, you can control some of the environmental factors that may cause you to develop asthma.
Ear Throat Nose Doctor
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Ear Throat Nose Doctor
An "Ear Throat Nose Doctor" is a medical doctor focusing on anatomy and diseases of the head and neck region of the body. Commonly called an "ENT" (Ear Nose Throat), the true medical term for this type of doctor is Otorhinolaryngologist but it’s easier just to call them ENT doctors.
Allergy to Peanuts Symptoms
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Allergy to Peanuts: Signs & Symptoms
A peanut allergy is a reaction that occurs when your body mistakenly identifies peanuts as harmful substances. When you eat peanuts or foods containing peanuts, your immune system overreacts and can cause a serious, even life-threatening response.
Allergic Reaction Wasp Sting
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What are the Allergic Reaction to Wasp Sting
Signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction to wasp sting result from the injection of venom or other substances into your skin. In most people, wasp stings result in minor swelling, redness, pain and itching. These mild reactions may last from a few hours to a few days and can be easily treated at home.
Allergic Reaction to Bite
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What are the Allergic Reaction to Bite
Signs and symptoms of an insect bite result from the injection of venom or other substances into your skin. In most people, insect bites and stings result in minor swelling, redness, pain and itching. These mild reactions may last from a few hours to a few days and can be easily treated at home.
