Allergy Care and Information

What Causes Allergies?

An allergy is a condition in which your immune system regards an ordinary, harmless substance such as food, pollen, or dust, as a dangerous invader, and responds to it by producing its own antibodies to attack the substance. An allergy normally causes an instant reaction, such as in the case of a fish, nut or milk allergy.

What Is Intolerance?

Many people confuse an allergy with intolerance. Food intolerance is a digestive system response rather than an immune system response and many times can be attributed to milk or wheat. Because you probably eat these foods every day, your body has built up a coping mechanism.

After a number of years, however, the body won't be able to cope as well and long-term symptoms may set in.

Allergy Symptoms

People often think of an allergy as only “hay fever,” with sneezing, runny nose, nasal stuffiness, and itchy, watery eyes. However, allergies can also cause symptoms such as chronic sinus problems, excess nasal and throat drainage, head congestion, frequent colds, hoarse voice, recurring ear/sinus infections, hearing loss, dizziness, chronic cough, and asthma. Even stomach and intestinal problems, as well as excessive fatigue, can be symptoms of allergy.

Spring and summer are not the only times that allergies can affect you. Molds and animal dander can cause year-round symptoms.

Treatment for Allergies

When allergen avoidance and medications do not successfully control allergy symptoms, Dr. Ellison can determine if you are a candidate for allergy shots. Allergy shots alter the body’s overactive response by carefully challenging your immune system through regular injections of allergens that are specific to you.

In order to receive this treatment, you must complete allergy testing so we know exactly which allergens to treat you with. Over time it may be possible to alter your excessive response to environmental allergens, which can improve your symptoms and decrease the need for medications and/or allergen avoidance for many years.

Chronic Allergies

A lot of people suffer from chronic, seasonal allergies, but relief is available. We offer a wide variety of treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Your primary care provider may make a referral to our clinic and we will determine the best course of treatment for you.

To make an appointment, call (719) 589-8018. The fax number for this department is (719) 587-6374. Allergy services are offered at the Stuart Ave Clinic.