Allergies

If you’re one of the 50 million Americans who suffer from moderate to severe allergies, you can rely on the expertise of Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies. Robert McDermott, MD, Amy Johnson, PA-C, and the medical team provide a range of allergy tests to identify which substances trigger a severe immune system reaction. Personalized treatment plans are available for adults and children to ease existing symptoms and prevent chronic, allergy-related complications. Call the Basalt or Glenwood Springs, Colorado, office today to schedule a consultation for seasonal or chronic allergies, or use the online feature to book an appointment.

What are allergies?

Allergies are an overreaction of the immune system to substances (allergens) in the environment that are typically considered harmless such as:

• Mold
• Dust
• Pollen
• Ragweed
• Pet dander
• Dust mites
• Insect bites or stings

Ingesting, touching, or breathing in an allergen triggers the release of histamine in the body that’s responsible for a range of allergy symptoms, including sneezing, nasal congestion, and skin rashes. Some people may also experience anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening reaction that interferes with breathing.

Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies offers comprehensive care for adults and kids with seasonal or chronic allergies. Dr. McDermott and the medical team design a treatment plan based on the severity of your allergy symptoms and their root cause.

When should I talk to a doctor about allergies?

Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies offers diagnostic evaluations, including allergy tests, if you have seasonal or chronic allergies and need help managing symptoms like:

• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Hives or other skin rash

You should also speak with the expert medical team if you experience anaphylaxis. This allergic response causes sudden inflammation in the upper respiratory tract that restricts how much oxygen you can take in. If you struggle to breathe due to anaphylaxis, call 911 or seek emergency medical attention at the nearest hospital.

How are allergies treated?

Mild or occasional allergy symptoms are often manageable with over-the-counter medicines that block histamine production. You can also use a saline spray to keep your nasal passages clear and moisturized.

If over-the-counter medications aren’t working well, you may need prescription antihistamines. Dr. McDermott and the team also discuss your options for immunotherapy, a long-term treatment that reduces your body’s response to known allergens.

The providers help people with anaphylaxis create an emergency plan for unexpected breathing problems. They offer prescription epinephrine pens that quickly reduce airway inflammation during an anaphylaxis event.

You can also expect to make lifestyle changes to avoid known allergens, such as keeping your windows closed when pollen counts are high. If you have food allergies, the team provides resources you can use to eliminate certain foods from your diet.

Call the Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies office near you today to schedule a consultation for allergies or book an appointment online.