Why do I have allergies?
Environmental causes such as animal hair and dander, food, environmental chemicals, or pollen may cause allergies.
We understand living in Central Texas there may be times of the year you suffer from more severe symptoms, or may suffer from what is commonly referred to as Cedar Fever here in Austin.
ADC's allergy and immunology specialists are trained in treating and helping to alleviate the pain and discomfort your allergies may bring.
Common allergy symptoms
- Coughing
- Itchy ears, eyes, throat or skin
- Runny nose and congestion
- Sneezing
- Asthma
What is cedar fever?
Cedar fever is basically an allergic reaction from pollen, which comes from a tree that’s commonly known as the mountain cedar. It doesn’t actually give you a fever, it’s more of a reaction that takes place when pollen counts are high, which is generally in the December and January timeframe.
Common symptoms
- Runny nose
- Itchy and watery eyes
- Constant sneezing
- Your nose might also feel blocked
- You may have a headache or sore throat
Prevention and treatment
You can do a lot of preventive things, like taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as a decongestant or an antihistamine, both of which help the body control an allergic reaction and reduce the duration of symptoms. You can also use eye drops to get more comfort.
ADC's Allergy, Asthma and Immunology specialists are here to treat your allergies and alleviate the pain and discomfort they bring. Call us today at 512-901-1111 for an appointment.
What are some symptoms of asthma?
Patients with asthma may experience breathing difficulties that often cause chest tightness, coughing, wheezing, or whistling noises when inhaling or exhaling.
Our Austin asthma specialists are committed to helping you treat and manage your asthma. We'll help you determine whether you simply need over the counter remedies or prescription inhalers and anti-inflammatory medications.
What causes asthma?
For some individuals, asthma attacks may be triggered by:
- Cold or dry air
- Air pollution
- Some medications
- Stressful situations that heighten emotions
- Preservatives, sulfites and other chemicals found in processed foods
- Environmental or occupational chemicals or pollutants
- The onset of the menstrual cycle
- Family history
- Smoking
- Being overweight
Allergy and asthma diagnosis and treatment
If you or someone you know struggles with asthma or allergies, visit our doctors to see how we can help you feel and breathe better.
Our doctors offer a variety of tests to help diagnose and treat asthma and allergies:
- Skin Testing: For allergies to inhalant (airborne) materials, foods, various venom from common insects and medications
- Patch Testing: For contact allergic reactions
- Ingestion Challenge Test (Food Allergy Testing): For allergies to foods or medications
- Spirometry: Testing for lung function
- Exercise Challenge Testing: For exercise-induced breathing problems
Your allergist can discuss these tests with you and determine the best and most effective treatment plan for your needs including immunotherapy (allergy shots) or allergy drops.