Allergy and Asthma Specialists in Virginia Beach
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 common conditions that affect millions worldwide, with virginia beach being no exception. Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance, such as pollen, dust, or pet dander, while asthma is a chronic disease that affects your airways, making it difficult to breathe. Both conditions can significantly impact daily life, limiting activities and decreasing the quality of life. In many cases, allergies can trigger asthma symptoms, known as allergic asthma, forming a direct link between the two. Understanding these conditions is the first step towards managing them effectively, with a combination of medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments being crucial for patients.
Causes
Allergies are caused by the immune system's overreaction to substances that are usually harmless to most people. These substances, known as allergens, can include pollen, dust mites, mold, animal dander, and certain foods. Asthma, on the other hand, can be triggered by similar allergens but is often also influenced by genetic factors, infections, physical activity, and air pollutants. In some people, asthma is primarily caused by exposure to certain chemicals or irritants in the workplace. Additionally, viral respiratory infections during childhood have been linked to the development of asthma. Both conditions have environmental and genetic components, suggesting a complex interplay of factors that contribute to their development.
Signs and symptoms
The signs and symptoms of allergies can range from mild to severe and include sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, and watery eyes. Asthma symptoms often include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, particularly at night or early in the morning. When allergies trigger asthma, these symptoms can become exacerbated, leading to increased difficulty in managing both conditions. It's important for individuals to recognize their specific triggers and symptoms to manage their condition effectively. Timely recognition of symptoms is crucial in preventing severe allergic or asthmatic reactions, which can be potentially life-threatening.
Diagnosing Allergies
Diagnosing allergies typically involves a combination of a physical examination, review of symptoms, and possibly skin or blood tests to identify specific allergies. Asthma diagnosis can be more complex and may include lung function tests, such as spirometry and peak flow measurements, alongside a medical history review. In some cases, allergy tests are also conducted for those with asthma to identify triggering allergens. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial in developing an effective treatment plan that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life for individuals suffering from allergies, asthma, or both.
Prevention and natural treatment
Preventing allergies and asthma involves avoiding known triggers as much as possible. This might mean making changes to the home environment, such as using allergy-proof bedding, installing air purifiers, or avoiding pets and tobacco smoke. Treatment often includes medications, such as antihistamines for allergies and inhaled corticosteroids for asthma. Immunotherapy, or allergy shots, may be recommended for long-term allergy management. Asthma plans may also include quick-relief inhalers for sudden symptoms. Education on self-management techniques, including proper inhaler use and recognizing early signs of an asthma attack, is vital. With proper management, most people with allergies and asthma can lead healthy, active lives.
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