Allergies

Allergies happen when your immune system overreacts to harmless things like food, dust, pollen or pet dander. Your primary care provider may refer you to an allergist or immunologist for specialized care.

How Allergies Work

Allergens can enter your body through:

• Breathing (inhalation)
• Eating or drinking (ingestion)
• Touching (skin contact)

Your immune system reacts by making immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, which release histamine and other chemicals. These chemicals cause allergic symptoms. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, including life-threatening reactions like anaphylaxis.

Common Allergy Types

In the United States, common allergens include:

• Pet dander, urine or skin oils
• Bee stings
• Dust and dust mites
• Mold
• Pollen
• Foods such as peanuts, shellfish and eggs
• Latex
• Medications
• Feathers
• Industrial chemicals
• Cockroaches

Allergic reactions can happen in your:

• Skin
• Eyes
• Nose and sinuses
• Throat
• Lungs
• Stomach

Common Allergy Symptoms

You may experience:

• Coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
• Hives or itchy welts
• Red, dry, or itchy skin
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Sneezing, congestion, or nasal itching
• Itching in the ears or roof of the mouth

See your CU Medicine primary care provider if you notice any of these symptoms.

Understanding Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate emergency care. It usually happens within minutes of contact with allergens like peanuts or bee stings but can take up to 30 minutes.

What happens:

• The immune system releases chemicals that cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure and narrow the airways
• Breathing becomes difficult and shock may occur

Symptoms:

• Dizziness or fainting
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• Hives or flushed, pale skin
• Weak, rapid pulse

If anaphylaxis occurs:

• Use an epinephrine (EpiPen) right away
• Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately

Risk Factors for Allergies

Anyone can develop allergies, but risk is higher if you have:

• Asthma
• Family history of allergies
• High stress levels
• Exposure to environmental irritants

Allergies are more common in children but can start at any age.

Preventing Allergies

To reduce your risk or control symptoms:

Avoid Known Triggers

• Stay indoors with windows closed during high pollen days
• Wear a mask when doing yard work
• Wash bedding and curtains in hot water if allergic to dust mites
• Use dust mite covers on pillows and mattresses.

Track Your Symptoms

• Keep a symptom diary
• Note when and where symptoms occur
• Share this with your healthcare provider

Wear a Medical Alert Accessory

• If you’ve had a severe allergic reaction, wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace

Managing Allergies

Your doctor will create a treatment plan based on your:

• Symptoms
• Age
• Overall health
• Allergy severity

Treatment Options

1. Medication

• Nasal sprays: relieve congestion and postnasal drip
• Antihistamines: reduce itching and hives
• Decongestants: ease nasal stuffiness
• Epinephrine: for emergency use in severe allergic reactions

2. Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy)

• Used for hay fever, asthma, and insect sting allergies
• Weekly injections with allergen extracts
• Gradually reduced over time
• Many people see improvement in 6–18 months

3. Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)

• Taken by mouth daily at home
• Alternative to allergy shots
• Available for certain allergens only

Living with Allergies

Most people with allergies lead healthy, active lives with the right care. By avoiding triggers, using medication, and working with your doctor, you can manage your symptoms and feel your best.

Your CU Medicine primary care provider is here to help you control your allergies and improve your quality of life.