Allergies

Allergies are very common, affecting up to one in three adults and about one in four children. At Dovecare , serving patients throughout the state of Virginia, board-certified Internal medicine physician Abisoye Fakayode, MD, and the team specialize in treating allergies. Dr. Fakayode manages various allergies, including seasonal allergies and skin allergies. Book your telehealth appointment online today. 

Are allergies and allergic reactions the same?

The terms allergies and allergic reactions are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t the same.

Allergies

Allergies occur when your immune system identifies a usually harmless substance, like peanuts or pet hair, as a harmful invader. This causes your immune system to create antibodies that defend against infection, triggering a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. 

Allergic reaction

An allergic reaction is how your body responds when it comes in contact with an allergen, like poison ivy, for example. Allergic reactions vary in symptoms and severity. For some people, they cause minor discomfort, like itchy skin, but for others, they’re life-threatening. 

Are there different types of allergies?

The Dovecare Medical Group team treats several types of allergies, including:

Seasonal allergies

Seasonal allergies occur because of exposure to environmental factors like pollen, grass, and leaves. Also known as hay fever, these allergies are typically worse during specific times of the year, like the spring and summer. 

Food allergies

Food allergies occur when your body releases antibodies in response to foods or drinks you consume. These allergies often cause severe reactions. Common food allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, and milk.

Skin allergies

Also known as contact dermatitis, skin allergies occur when your skin comes into contact with an irritant, like latex or perfume. These allergies may trigger various symptoms, including welts and itchy skin.

How are allergies diagnosed?

Via telehealth, your Dovecare Medical Group provider reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes a virtual exam. If these steps don’t provide enough insight, they might ask you to visit a nearby lab facility to complete several tests, including:

How are allergies treated?

The Dovecare Medical Group team treats allergies using a conservative and patient-centered approach. They could suggest:

• Oral antihistamines (medications that relieve allergy symptoms)
• Nasal sprays
• Decongestants
• Asthma medication
• Nasal saline irrigation
• Avoiding specific foods and/or substances 

You might benefit from several types of treatment depending on the type of allergies you have and their severity. 

Book your telehealth appointment online today.