True allergy information vs. myths

There is a lot of allergy information out there and it can be annoying to sort out the truth from the myths. Understanding allergy information is the first step to identifying what is causing your allergic reaction. Analyze your allergy symptoms and comb through these questions to separate true allergy information from the myths.

I can outgrow my allergies, right?

Sort of… but children are more likely to have food allergies than adults. Seasonal allergies will follow you to adulthood. Your allergy symptoms may change, but the allergies themselves will be there. If you think you have outgrown one set of allergies, you may just wind up acquiring a new set. Children who outgrow food allergies often develop new ones, though allergies to things like peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish don’t seem to be outgrown.

Moving will get rid of my seasonal allergies, right?

Again, sort of. Moving to a different climate will get rid of the seasonal allergies and allergy symptoms associated with the area, but going to a new climate exposes you to a whole new environment. There might be different allergens that will cause allergies and allergy symptoms in your new area. Each area has its own set of allergies and allergy symptoms to handle.

My NY allergist can cure me, right?

Allergy symptoms can be managed and avoided. However, allergies can’t be cured. What an NY allergist would do is isolate the cause of your allergy symptoms and help you to avoid them. You can also take antihistamines or other medication. An NY allergist will work with you to determine what the best medication is for you.

I’m allergic to animals, but I can get a hypoallergenic dog, right?

Allergies are not directly caused by animal fur. Shocking, right? The protein that causes the allergic reaction is located in the skin and the saliva. While it’s true that shorter-haired dogs will shed less and therefore give off less of the allergen, animal allergies are animal allergies. Getting a pet fish might be a better bet.

Food allergies and food intolerances are the same thing, right?

No. A food allergy involves the immune system, while food intolerances do not. Food intolerances are generally caused by a missing enzyme. While you may experience similar symptoms to allergies, a food intolerance can often be remedied by taking the enzyme in pill or chewable tablet form. For example, lactose intolerance is caused by a person missing the enzyme lactase.