Allergies are a group of diseases such as hay fever, asthma and eczema. They are characterized by an immune system overreaction to foreign bodies that are normally harmless; such as dust, pollen and animal dander. The body produces a histamine response to these substances – resulting in symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing and watery eyes.
Allergy season is getting longer – tree pollen runs from January to June, grass from May to June and weeds from August to November. Many individuals also react to indoor irritants such as pet dander, mold and dust mites. While over-the-counter allergy medications can help, some individuals will need allergy skin testing to receive prescription sublingual allergy drops.
Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, offers allergy skin testing to her patients. After the identification of specific allergens, allergy immunotherapy (sublingual drops) can be specifically formulated. Often, several years of therapy is necessary for full symptom relief. Please call the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.