Vim & Vigor - Spring 2013 - North Mississippi - (Page 43)

By Stephanie R. ConneR When Allergies Attack photography by getty images Achoo! Sniffle. Blow. Achoo! Ah, the sounds of allergy season. • if you’re an allergy sufferer, you know the signs well—sneezing, runny nose, congestion and watery eyes are common symptoms. And if you’re an allergy sufferer, you’re far from alone. Nearly one in five Americans suffers from some sort of allergy, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. About 40 million of us have an indoor/outdoor allergy, such as pollen, mold, dust mites or pet dander, as our primary allergy. People who are allergic to pollen from particular plants, such as grass, trees or weeds, experience seasonal allergic rhinitis (or hay fever). In the U.S., that’s about 7.8 percent of adults age 18 and older, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology reports. Indoor allergens like dust and pet dander can also trigger allergic rhinitis. Of course, if you’re allergic to these things, your allergy “season” is year-round. Allergies explAined So, what’s happening when you have an allergy? An allergy is essentially a miscue in the body’s immune system, where it senses a substance— such as pollen or mold—as a harmful invader, and causes the body to produce immunoglobulin E antibodies. An initial allergy screening will often include a blood test for these antibodies, which travel to cells that release chemicals that cause an allergic reaction. There are steps you can take to minimize the symptoms of allergies, but perhaps the most important step is to first educate yourself. Here are a few common myths about allergies and what you should know. Spri ng 2013 43

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Vim & Vigor - Spring 2013 - North Mississippi

Vim & Vigor - Spring 2013 - North Mississippi
Contents
Opening Thoughts
Brain Power
No Bones About It
You're the Star
Heart-to-Heart
Lighten Up!
Have No Fear
Work It!
What Are the Chances?
9 Symptoms Never to Ignore
When Allergies Attack
Virtual Health
Botox: A New Miracle Drug?
The Doctor Will See You Now
Catch the Spirit

Vim & Vigor - Spring 2013 - North Mississippi

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