Allergies

Constant sniffling, sneezing, and runny eyes don’t always signify that you’re sick. You could be suffering from undiagnosed allergies. The team of allergy specialists at Cookeville Medical Clinic RHC specializes in diagnosing allergies in adults. They’re also experts in modern allergy treatments, so you can conquer your allergies and get back to doing the things you enjoy. Don’t delay. With four convenient locations in Cookeville, Gainesboro, Crossville, and Sparta, Tennessee, call the office nearest you or request an appointment online today.

How are allergies diagnosed?

The first step in getting to the cause of your allergies is to run a blood panel. While your Cookeville Medical Clinic RHC specialists won’t be able to check for all allergens this way, they can test for some of them.

Plus, they can see if you have high inflammatory markers or other abnormalities. Depending on the outcome of the lab results and the severity of your symptoms, the team may also need to do a skin scratch test.

This test requires your specialist to dab minuscule amounts of dozens of allergens onto your skin. Your specialist gently punctures (or scratches) your skin, so each of the allergens can sink in. If you’re allergic to any of them, they’ll be able to tell immediately since the area will flare up. 

Once they know exactly what you’re allergic to, they’ll be able to get you the proper treatment.

What are some common allergies?

You can be allergic to so many things in your environment, so if you’re having allergy symptoms, they can stem from multiple allergens. While the list is endless, some of the most common allergens include:

• Weeds
• Grass
• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Mold
• Animal dander
• Insect stings
• Food (eggs, shellfish, wheat, nuts, dairy, and grains)

You can also be allergic to fragrances, cosmetics, hair products, soaps, and laundry detergents. If you suspect these allergens, speak to your specialist about your concerns. They may request additional testing.

Is immunotherapy helpful for allergies?

Immunotherapy is a type of allergy treatment that works with your immune system. This can prevent the development of new allergies and minimize the effects of the ones you have. Your immune system will change, ultimately becoming resistant to the allergens that trigger symptoms for you.

Allergy shots are currently the only types of immunotherapy treatments that completely change your immune system in this way.

You can also get allergy tablets, although they generally only treat one type of allergen and don’t do anything to prevent the development of other allergies. Your Cookeville Medical Clinic RHC allergy specialist works with you to determine the best immunotherapy for your specific allergies.

Will I ever completely get over my allergies?

It’s possible to get over allergies. But you might also develop new allergies in the process. Your immune system changes as you age and gets exposed to new things in your environment. Even if you have severe allergies, you can manage your symptoms successfully.

Working with your Cookeville Medical Clinic RHC allergy specialists, you’ll learn ways to best care for your health and manage your allergies.

To learn more about allergies and services available, call the office nearest you or request an allergy consultation online today.