Atopic Allergy FAQs

An allergy is an abnormal reaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance called an allergen. When the body encounters that allergen, the immune system mistakenly treats it as a threat and releases chemicals that trigger allergy symptoms.

Common allergens include:

• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Mold
• Pet dander
• Foods
• Medications
• Insect stings

Allergy symptoms occur when the immune system produces antibodies in response to an allergen. These antibodies trigger the release of inflammatory chemicals that cause symptoms such as:

• • Sneezing
  • Runny or congested nose
  • Itchy eyes or throat
  • Wheezing or coughing
  • Skin irritation or hives

The immune response continues each time the allergen enters the body, leading to recurring symptoms.

Allergy symptoms vary depending on the allergen and the individual but commonly include:

• Sneezing
• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Skin itching or rashes
• Hives

If symptoms occur frequently or interfere with daily life, allergy testing may help identify the cause.

Allergy testing helps determine which substances trigger your symptoms. The most common test is a skin test, where small amounts of suspected allergens are applied to the skin using tiny pricks or scratches.

If the immune system recognizes the allergen, a small raised bump or redness will appear at the test site.

Allergy testing can identify sensitivity to many environmental allergens, including:

• Tree pollens
• Grass pollens
• Weed pollens
• Mold spores
• Dust mites
• Animal dander

Testing may also evaluate reactions to certain medications or insect stings.

Skin testing is a widely used and generally safe diagnostic tool when performed in a medical setting. Mild redness or itching at the test site is common and usually resolves quickly. Serious reactions are rare, and medical staff monitor patients throughout the testing process.

Certain medications can interfere with allergy test results. Antihistamines and some other medications may need to be stopped several days before testing so results can be interpreted accurately.

Your provider will give you specific instructions before your appointment.

Allergen immunotherapy—commonly called allergy shots—is a treatment that helps retrain the immune system to tolerate allergens instead of reacting to them. Over time, the immune system becomes less sensitive to triggers that previously caused symptoms.

Immunotherapy is often recommended for patients with:

• Moderate to severe environmental allergies
• Persistent symptoms despite medication
• Allergic asthma
• Allergies that cannot be easily avoided

Allergy shots contain very small amounts of the allergens responsible for your symptoms. The dose is gradually increased over time so the immune system can develop tolerance.

Treatment occurs in two phases:

Build-Up Phase

• Injections are given weekly or biweekly
• Allergen doses gradually increase

Maintenance Phase

• Once the effective dose is reached
• Injections typically occur every 2–4 weeks

Allergy immunotherapy typically continues for 3 to 5 years to achieve long-term improvement in symptoms. Some patients continue treatment longer depending on their response and medical history.

Many patients experience lasting relief even after treatment ends.

Sublingual immunotherapy is an alternative treatment that uses allergy drops placed under the tongue rather than injections. These drops expose the immune system to small amounts of allergens and may help reduce sensitivity over time.

This option is commonly used for inhalant allergies in certain regions and may be recommended in specific cases.

Most patients experience little or no reaction after allergy shots. A small localized swelling at the injection site is common and usually resolves within a short time.

Rarely, patients may experience systemic allergic reactions such as:

• Hives
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing or wheezing
• Dizziness or faintness

Patients are typically asked to remain in the office for about 30 minutes after receiving an allergy injection. This allows healthcare staff to monitor for rare allergic reactions and provide immediate care if necessary.

To ensure treatment safety and effectiveness, patients are generally advised to:

• Wait in the clinic for observation after injections
• Avoid strenuous exercise shortly after receiving a shot
• Inform staff of new medications or illnesses
• Carry prescribed epinephrine if recommended by their provider

These precautions help reduce the risk of reactions and ensure appropriate dosing.

A positive food allergy test means the immune system recognizes that food allergen. However, testing alone does not confirm that the food will cause symptoms. Results must be interpreted alongside a patient’s medical history and reactions.

Your provider may recommend additional evaluation or monitoring.

Oral Allergy Syndrome occurs when certain foods trigger symptoms in individuals who are allergic to specific pollens. This happens because proteins in some fruits or vegetables are similar to pollen proteins.

• Common symptoms include:
• Tingling in the mouth
• Itching of the lips or throat
• Mild swelling in the mouth

These reactions typically occur shortly after eating the food and are often mild.