Allergies

Family Medicine & Internal Medicine located in Toms River, NJ

Allergies

Don’t live with continuous watery eyes, nasal congestion, or sneezing due to allergies when relief is available at Pronto Med Care in Toms River, New Jersey. Board-certified physician Jessica Carpenter, MD, and her skilled team treat allergies in kids, teenagers, and adults. Schedule an allergy consultation at Pronto Med Care by phone or online today. 

Allergies Q&A

What are allergies?

Allergies are your immune system’s response to allergens, which are substances that cause allergic reactions in some people. Allergies can be mild, moderate, or severe and even debilitating when not addressed. Fortunately, the Pronto Med Care experts offer relief, helping you enjoy your favorite activities without symptoms. 

What are examples of allergens?

Examples of allergens include:

  • Grasses
  • Pollen
  • Mold
  • Pet dander
  • Peanuts
  • Latex
  • Eggs
  • Soy
  • Milk
  • Wheat
  • Household chemicals
  • Bee stings
  • Some medications 
  • Dust mites
  • Cockroaches 
  • Shellfish
  • Peanut
  • Tree nuts

Seasonal allergies can cause allergic reactions with grass, mold, or pollen exposure. These allergies are highly common among adults and children. Asthma, a condition associated with difficulty breathing, is linked to having allergies. 

Which symptoms can allergies cause?

Allergies can cause the following symptoms:

  • Rashes
  • Throat swelling
  • Difficult breathing
  • Sneezing
  • Itchy, watery, or red eyes
  • Nasal congestion
  • Runny nose
  • Headaches
  • Itching
  • Hives
  • Wheezing 

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can become life-threatening when not treated. It’s a medical emergency, as it can cause lightheadedness, shortness of breath, vomiting, nausea, and even a loss of consciousness. 

Who is at risk of allergies?

Allergic reactions can affect anyone. They’re common, appearing in more than 50 million people living in the United States each year. Your risk of allergies increases if you have asthma or a family history of allergies or asthma. 

How are allergies diagnosed?

Diagnosing allergies involves a physical exam, a review of your medical history and symptoms, and allergy testing. Pronto Med Care provides skin prick testing, blood tests, patch testing, and other tests that pinpoint the cause of allergic reactions. 

How are allergies treated?

Pronto Med Care offers the following treatments for allergies:

  • Oral medications
  • Nasal sprays
  • Saline rinses 
  • Inhalers
  • Allergy shots
  • Epinephrine pens
  • Lifestyle changes

You might avoid allergens that trigger unpleasant reactions, clean your home, and use an air filter to minimize dust, mold, or pet dander in indoor air.

Follow up with the Pronto Med Care team so they can monitor your treatment plan and ensure its effectiveness. Some children outgrow allergies, but this depends on the severity and type of allergies they struggle with.

Schedule an allergy evaluation at Pronto Med Care by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.