Allergies

Nearly 1 in 3 people in America, ranging from children to adults, struggle with some form of allergies. Whether you have a food allergy, eczema, or get sick depending on the season, experienced nurse practitioner Elena Vale-Saquieres, DNP, FNP-C, provides personalized allergy care at Orlando Medical Associates in Orlando, Florida. With holistic care tailored to your needs, you can better manage allergies year-round or avoid triggers to protect your safety. Call Orlando Medical Associates or book your visit online today.

What are the most common allergy symptoms?

Your allergy symptoms depend on what you’re allergic to and how your body reacts.

Seasonal allergies

Seasonal and environmental allergies commonly cause sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, postnasal drip, and an itchy nose or throat. Some people may also experience coughing, fatigue, or sinus pressure.

Skin allergies

Skin allergies can cause itching, redness, hives, or a rash. 

Food and medication allergies 

These may cause digestive symptoms, swelling, hives, or other reactions.

A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) can cause difficulty breathing, throat or tongue swelling, dizziness, or loss of consciousness. If you experience any of these, seek emergency care.

How can I tell allergies from a cold or sinus infection?

Allergy and respiratory infection symptoms can be hard to tell apart, but you can look for helpful clues in certain patterns.

Allergies often cause itchy or watery eyes, repeated sneezing, and clear nasal drainage. They typically occur after exposure to a specific trigger, may continue for weeks or recur during particular seasons, and generally don’t cause a fever.

Colds may cause a sore throat, cough, congestion, fatigue, and sometimes a low-grade fever. Symptoms usually improve within several days to about two weeks. 

A sinus infection may cause significant facial pressure or pain, congestion, thick nasal drainage, and symptoms that persist or worsen after initially improving.

When your symptoms are unclear or persistent, Elena can help determine whether allergies, a cold, sinusitis, or another condition is responsible.

When should I talk to a professional about my allergies?

Consider talking with Elena if allergy symptoms keep coming back or interfere with sleep or daily activities. She can also help if you experience recurring sinus problems, wheezing, or asthma symptoms.

How can personalized care help manage allergies?

Personalized allergy care with Orlando Medical Associates starts with understanding your symptoms, triggers, medical history, and overall health. Elena can evaluate persistent symptoms, help distinguish allergies from infections, and recommend an individualized treatment plan.

Depending on your needs, treatment may include trigger avoidance, antihistamines, nasal sprays, or other therapies. Elena can also monitor how well your treatment is working and adjust your care as needed.

Managing allergies can become a natural part of your overall wellness care at Orlando Medical Associates, rather than something you simply endure. Get started by booking online or calling the office today.