Allergy and Asthma Specialists in Philadelphia
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Allergies treatment
Recommended health tests for Allergies
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
How it works
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Learn about Allergies
Allergy and asthma are significant public health concerns globally, including in philadelphia. Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance — such as pollen, bee venom, pet dander, or food — that doesn't cause a reaction in most people. Asthma is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and may produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. For some, allergy and asthma are linked, a condition known as allergy-induced asthma. Understanding these conditions is crucial for effective management and treatment, especially in urban environments where triggers can be more prevalent.
Causes
The exact causes of allergies and asthma are not entirely known, but they are related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Allergies are triggered by allergens, which can be inhaled, ingested, or come into contact with the skin, leading to an allergic reaction. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, and certain foods. Asthma can be triggered by these allergens as well as others like cold air, exercise, smoke, and stress. Certain respiratory infections during childhood have also been linked to developing asthma. Both conditions are influenced by a mix of genetic predisposition and exposure to environmental factors.
Signs and symptoms
The signs and symptoms of allergies can range from mild to severe and include sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, and red, swollen eyes. Asthma symptoms may include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, particularly at night or early in the morning. Allergy-induced asthma combines these symptoms, leading to asthmatic reactions after exposure to specific allergens. Symptoms can vary based on the type and severity of allergen exposure, and they can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, including sleep disruption and reduced ability to participate in outdoor activities.
Diagnosing Allergies
Diagnosing allergies and asthma often involves taking a comprehensive medical history, physical examination, and possibly performing specific tests. For allergies, skin prick tests and blood tests can identify specific allergens. Spirometry is a common test for asthma, measuring the speed and volume of breath, and a bronchial challenge test can assess how your airways react to specific exposures. In some cases, an allergist/immunologist might use a combination of tests to diagnose allergy-induced asthma. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and management of these conditions, especially in environments like philadelphia where triggers may be more common.
Prevention and natural treatment
Prevention and treatment strategies for allergies and asthma focus on avoiding known triggers and managing symptoms. This can include changes in the home environment, such as using air purifiers, regular cleaning to reduce dust and pet dander, and avoiding outdoor activities during high pollen counts. Medications play a crucial role in treatment, with antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays commonly used for allergies, and inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting beta agonists (labas), and leukotriene modifiers for asthma. Immunotherapy, such as allergy shots or sublingual tablets, may be recommended for long-term management. Avoiding triggers, proper medication use, and ongoing monitoring with healthcare professionals are key components of effectively managing allergy and asthma symptoms.
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