Allergies Specialist
-
- Tweet
Catherine Fuller, MD
Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Specialist located in West Los Angeles, CA
If you’re suffering from hay fever, ear infections, asthma, fatigue, or chronic headaches you could be among the millions of people with allergies. Allergies can appear and disappear throughout your lifetime, leaving you guessing as to whether your symptoms are allergies or something else. Catherine Fuller, MD, helps diagnose your allergy symptoms at her practice in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles. If you’re suffering from allergies, use the online booking tool or call the office for an appointment.
Allergies Q & A
What are allergies?
Allergies are an overreaction of your immune system to food, medicine, or something you come into contact within the environment. Your immune system works hard to defend your body from bacteria and viruses, but when it fights a substance it shouldn’t — that’s an allergy.
Allergies may be seasonal or occur year-round and are often inherited. You can become allergic to substances you were not allergic to previously, and you can stop experiencing allergy symptoms only for them to return again years later. The most common allergens that cause reactions include:
- Dust
- Mold
- Pollen
- Food
- Animals
- Insects
- Latex
What are allergic reactions?
Allergic reactions range from mild, cold-like symptoms to severe and life-threatening. The most common allergic reactions include hay fever and involves sneezing, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes. Other allergic reactions include:
- Tingling in your mouth
- Swelling of the tongue, lips, and throat
- Hives
- Rash
- Itching
- Wheezing
- Vomiting
Severe allergies can result in anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate attention. Anaphylaxis symptoms come on suddenly and include difficulty breathing, hives, swelling, nausea, vomiting, tightness in the throat, fainting, or dizziness. Some people may experience a rapid pulse, or their heart stops beating. If you experience anaphylaxis symptoms, call 911 immediately.
How are allergies diagnosed and treated?
Dr. Fuller will complete a thorough examination to determine whether your symptoms are caused by allergies, a cold, sinus infection, or other health problems. Allergy tests are ordered to determine specific triggers. After your allergies are identified, Dr. Fuller will discuss treatment options, which include allergen avoidance, nasal saline irrigation, and perhaps antihistamines and nasal sprays. Immunotherapy may be prescribed to retrain your immune system from overreacting to normal environmental substances.
How does immunotherapy work?
Some people can overcome allergies through the immunotherapy process. You’ll receive increasing doses of the allergen, which over time, helps decrease sensitivity. Immunotherapy options include allergy shots and sublingual tablets.
Don’t let your allergies or the fear of allergic reactions interfere with your daily activities and lifestyle. If you experience allergy symptoms, give Dr. Catherine Fuller a call to schedule an appointment to learn about possible treatments to reduce or eliminate allergies. You can also book your appointment online.
