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Many people have undiagnosed allergies that are significantly affecting the quality of their lives. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America estimates that 50 million Americans struggle with some type of allergy each year. Once the cause of the allergy is finally diagnosed, treatments are available that can help. This is the office of the Allergy & Asthma Clinic of West Texas under the medical direction of Dr. Suzanne Beck.

What Causes Allergies?
There is no single cause of allergies. They may be hereditary or caused by environmental factors. Most allergy sufferers experience symptoms, like coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and dripping eyes, without warning. Some allergies are triggered by pollen, dust, dander, and other things that are in the air. Others are triggered by contact with chemicals. Some people have food allergies that cause them to break out in rashes and experience digestive issues. Although you may not know the exact reason for your allergy, you can identify the allergen, and take action to control symptoms.

Do You Have an Undiagnosed Allergy?
Many people live with allergies that have been undiagnosed for years. They may come to the doctor complaining of symptoms and not realize that it is simply an allergic reaction. If you have an allergy, your allergy provider can make a diagnosis using a blood or skin prick test. Once you know the allergen that’s bothering you, you can make lifestyle changes to avoid it and take antihistamines prescribed by your doctor.

Controlling Allergy Symptoms
The best way to prevent flare-ups due to an allergy is to actively avoid the triggering substance. But in cases when you are exposed to an allergen, there are ways to control the symptoms:

- Take antihistamine medication at the first sign of an allergic reaction.
- Talk to your doctor about skin testing and allergy shots.
- Carry an epinephrine injector as an emergency precaution if you or your child experience life-threatening allergy symptoms.

An Allergy Specialist Can Help
Call (806) 799-4192 today to schedule a visit with Dr. Suzanne Beck, Dr. Amanda Lewis, Georgeanna Welch, F.N. P-C, or Heather Morris, F.N. P-C at the Allergy & Asthma Clinic of West Texas in Lubbock, TX.