Allergic Reaction
What Are Allergies?
When someone’s immune system overreacts to something in their environment, they have an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions can be as mild as watery eyes and as severe as extreme swelling. Luckily, Total Point ER is treating allergic reactions. Next time you or a loved one notices the signs of allergies, we can help determine how serious the reaction is and provide the necessary treatment. Don’t needlessly suffer from your allergies. Visit one of our ER locations today!
Signs of Allergies
Allergies may seem odd because everyone reacts differently. Two people who are allergic to the same thing may experience different physical symptoms when they react. To truly identify the source of an allergy and then plot the most effective course of treatment requires an appropriately trained medical professional. However, here are some of the most common signs that you may be having an allergic reaction.
Skin Rashes
Your skin is your body’s first line of defense against the outside world. Often your skin is the first sign of an allergic reaction too. Allergies often result in rashes on the skin. They can appear anywhere and form in any shape imaginable. Allergic skin rashes often burn, swell, and feel tender to the touch. Most allergic skin rashes can be treated with the right course of prescription medication and ointments.
Swelling
Swelling is one of the most alarming types of allergic reaction. During an allergic reaction, your body produces a chemical called histamine. Histamine causes blood vessels to expand and results in swelling. Swelling can be serious and, in some cases, even life-threatening. If you are swelling due to an allergic reaction, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Vomiting and Diarrhea
Often, your body reacts to an allergic reaction by trying to expel everything possible through vomiting and diarrhea. It can even start as a mild stomachache. This is your body’s natural defense mechanism against the ingestion of or exposure to harmful substances. However, it can still be a serious risk if not treated appropriately. If it continues, you can become dangerously dehydrated. Vomiting and diarrhea may just be the beginning of a more complex allergic reaction. So, we suggest you visit an emergency medical facility if you begin experiencing vomiting and diarrhea as part of an allergic reaction.
Common Causes of Allergic Reactions
The list of substances that cause allergic reactions is seemingly endless. Everything from the foods you eat to your medications can cause an allergic reaction. Ultimately, our team of diagnostic specialists will help you understand the cause of your allergic reaction, but some of the most common causes of allergic reactions are:
- Allergic Rhinitis
- Drug Allergies
- Antibiotic Allergies
- Food Allergies
- Exercise-Induced Food Allergies
- Pollen Allergies
When to Visit an ER
It can be tough to determine when an allergic reaction is no big deal and when it warrants a trip to the emergency room. This can be even more challenging for those of us who deal with allergic reactions on a routine basis. It is always safer to visit a medical professional if you are experiencing an allergic reaction. However, you need to see a doctor right away if you notice:
- Difficulty breathing or constriction of your airways
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- Rapid heart rate
- Swelling of the throat
- Decreased blood pressure
Get Treatment for Your Allergies Today!
If you are experiencing an allergic reaction, you don’t need to suffer any longer. Our doctors can help develop a treatment plan that alleviates the symptoms you are experiencing and gets you back on the road to a normal, allergy-free lifestyle. Our emergency room is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. So, we are available whenever you need us. Walk-in appointments are always welcome too. Don’t suffer from your allergies for another moment. Visit Total Point ER today!