According to the World Health Organization, “Worldwide, the rise in prevalence of allergic diseases has continued in the industrialized world for more than 50 years.¹” Furthermore, “worldwide, sensitization rates to one or more common allergens among school children are currently approaching 40%-50%.2”
Allergies are a major health issue for adults and children. We take the diagnosis and treatment of allergies very seriously at our natural medicine clinic near Milwaukee, and we would like patients to be more aware of allergies and how they can affect overall health.
Your immune system is designed to fight against invasive organisms that may harm you or cause an illness. When you have allergies, your body’s immune system thinks that harmless organisms, antigens such as pollen or pet dander, are harmful. Your body reacts by producing immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. IgE antibodies send a signal to your cells to release a substance called histamine. Along with other chemicals, this is what causes allergic reactions.
These reactions can cause mild, moderate or severe symptoms. In some cases, they may be life-threatening.
A variety of allergens cause different types of allergies.
Your symptoms are dictated by the type of allergens you have. We can find out what you are allergic to by taking a thorough medical history, performing a physical examination and by performing allergy testing. If you are experiencing ongoing allergy symptoms, you should contact our natural medicine clinic near Milwaukee.
The most severe and dangerous reaction to allergies is anaphylaxis. This life-threatening reaction occurs due to food allergies, insect allergies, medication allergies or any severe reaction to an allergen. If you or someone you are with is experiencing symptoms of anaphylaxis, call 911 immediately.
Our natural medicine clinic near Milwaukee provides an integrative approach to allergies, as well as your overall health. Don’t ignore your allergies—contact us today for help and information.