More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies. However, many are still not educated about certain allergens and reactions. With so much information available, it can be hard to distinguish between what’s true and what’s false. That’s why the allergists at NY Allergy & Sinus Centers have decided to answer some common true or false allergy questions. How well do you really know your allergies?
Your Family History Plays A Role In Developing Allergies
True. If your parents have allergies, there is an increased chance that you will develop allergies as well. For this reason, your allergist may ask for a detailed family history list to determine your risks. However, while genetics does play a role in allergies, it does not guarantee that you will get them. Both parents can be allergic to peanuts, but there is still only a 60% chance that you will be allergic to them as well. It also works vice versa. Your parents could have no allergies, but you could still develop them. The best way to find out is to visit an allergist for an allergy test. A simple allergy skin prick test can determine your allergies in less than 20 minutes.
Pollen Levels Are Highest In The Afternoon
False. Pollen levels usually peak between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. If you are allergic to pollen, try to avoid being outside in the early morning. It’s also best take any over the counter allergy medications the night before, so you don’t have to suffer in the morning until they start working. We recommend taking a 24-hour antihistamine pill, such as Zyrtec, for hay fever symptoms.
More People Are Allergic To Cats Than Dogs
True. Cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies. The protein found in a cat’s skin are most likely causing your sneezing and itchy eyes. If you live with a cat and have been experiencing allergy symptoms, book an appointment with a Board Certified allergist to see if you are indeed allergic to cats. If it turns out that Fluffy does make you stuffy, immunotherapy can help you feel better while still snuggling with him at night.
Daffodils Are More Likely To Cause An Allergic Reaction Than Bark Mulch
False. Daffodils have larger pollen grains that don’t blow around. It’s the tiny pollen that you can’t see in mulch that causes allergy symptoms. If you suffer from a pollen allergy, there’s no need to give up picking your favorite flowers. Find out which flowers have larger pollen grains and won’t affect your symptoms.
Allergies Can Cause Bad Breath
True. Allergies can affect your sinuses and cause post nasal drip, which is mucus accumulation in the back of the nose and throat that drips downward. This post nasal drip results in constant throat clearing, a sore throat, and bad breath. If you experience post nasal drip often, try a saline rinse spray or neti pot to flush out mucus.
For more answers to all of your allergy questions, call (212) 686-4448 to book your appointment with one of our allergy specialists.
Meet The Physician Collaborator
Dr. Tehila Saadia is our newest physician at NY Allergy & Sinus Centers. She is Board Certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. She specializes in allergy & immunology. You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Saadia by calling (212) 686-4448 or by visiting one of our seven locations.