To schedule an appointment or for all other requests, call (585) 922-8350.
What are allergies?
Allergies are atypical reactions by a person's immune system against a typically harmless substance, called an allergen. Almost anything can be an allergen or cause an allergic reaction, but the most common include:
- Food such as eggs, wheat (gluten), soy, nuts, shellfish, and dairy
- Animal dander (often from dogs and cats)
- Drugs and medications (commonly antibiotics)
- Environmental allergens such as dust, mold
- Seasonal allergens such as pollen and plants
- Insect bites (often bee stings)
- Latex (or other substances that come in contact with the skin)
- Viruses and bacteria
Common allergic conditions
Allergies may cause:
- Eczema / atopic dermatitis - a condition which causes the skin to become inflamed or irritated
- Hay fever - an inflammation of the nasal airways which is typically brought on by allergies to outdoor, airborne materials such as pollen and mold
- Sinus infection (sinusitis) - a condition that causes the cavities around the nasal passages to become inflamed and swollen. Sinus infections are most often caused by allergies, the common cold, bacteria, and fungal infections
- Asthma - a disease of the lungs that causes airways to become blocked or narrowed
Allergy signs & symptoms
Indicators and symptoms that you may have allergies include:
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Rash
- Wheezing
- Itchy eyes, nose, and throat
- Congestion
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling
- Abdominal pain
- Cramps
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Mental confusion or dizziness
Treatments
Drug therapy - our physicians help treat allergies and alleviate allergy symptoms through the safe, appropriate and economical use of medicines that help control immune system chemicals released during an allergic reaction.
Allergy shots (Immunotherapy) - our physicians treat allergic reactions by administering regular injections of a small amount of the allergens that trigger the symptoms and progressively increasing doses. The immune system builds up a tolerance to the allergen over time, and allergic reactions diminish.
Our patients have found great relief from their allergy symptoms due to the treatments provided by Rochester General Medical Group's highly skilled physicians. Our physicians are also highly specialized in treating pediatric allergies and pediatric asthma.
To schedule your allergy appointment, please call (585) 922-8350.