Allergies
You can visit any of our experienced GP’s to discuss allergies.
What is an allergy?
An allergy is experienced when the immune system reacts to an allergen in the environment, also known as a ‘trigger’.
Typical allergens include:
- Dust mites
- Pollen from plants and grasses
- Animal fur and dander from domestic pets
- Insect bites and stings such as bees, wasps, ticks and mosquitos
- Food. The ‘Big 8’ allergenic foods are responsible for 90% of food allergies – milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, wheat, soy, sesame, peanuts and tree nuts.
- Medicines such as prescription drugs and herbal remedies
- Mould spores
- Cleaning chemicals and products
Signs of Allergic Reaction
Signs of allergy are known as an allergic reaction and can include:
- Asthma or wheeze
- Hayfever
- Eczema
- Hives
- Dermatitis
- Gastrointestinal Upsets
- Swelling of the eyes, lips or face
- Vomiting
- Anaphylaxis in rare cases
The allergic reaction is a result of the immune system identifying the allergen as a harmful substance, triggering a chain of responses to destroy the ‘harmful’ substance. This is an abnormal response.
Allergies can affect quality of life, mood, concentration, sleep and work performance
Remember that the symptoms of allergies are similar to to other medical conditions so rather than self-diagnose, see your doctor for a professional opinion and treatment if needed.
Allergy Testing
Your GP can order tests to help you identify your allergy triggers. We conduct allergy testing in our clinic using the Skin Prick test to determine your allergenic profile.
Allergy Treatment
One treatment modality which has proved useful in many situations is Desensitisation. Also known as Immunotherapy Treatment, our Patient Guide to Densensitisation should answer any questions you may have.
For further information:
The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy provides a great resource about allergies.
Allergy and Anaphylaxis Australia – a not-for-profit organisation to improve awareness of allergy in the community.