ALLERGY FACTS

• More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies
• The prevalence of allergic rhinitis has increased substantially over the past 15 years
• Chronic sinusitis is the most commonly reported chronic disease, affecting over 16% of people in the United States
• Peanut or tree nut allergies affect less than 1% of Americans, but cause the most severe food-induced allergic reactions
• Allergies and chronic sinusitis, left untreated, can lead to other more serious health problems

WHAT ARE ALLERGIES?

Allergies are reactions you have to otherwise harmless substances called allergens. Normally your immune system protects you against bacteria and viruses, but if you have allergies, otherwise harmless allergens cause your body to react as though they are dangerous invaders. It's like your immune system is responding to a false alarm, thinking it is protecting you by generating large amounts of the antibody specific to what you are allergic to.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE ALLERGIES?

Sometimes it's hard to tell what's causing your symptoms. Is it a cold, allergies or something else? If you think you might be suffering from allergies, contact us and one of our doctors will diagnose your condition.

HOW CAN I CONTROL MY ALLERGIES?

• Avoid the things you are allergic to
• Treat the symptoms with medications
• Stop the allergic reaction with allergy shots (immunotherapy)

Some of the most exciting and hopeful advances are taking place in immunotherapy. Call us today at (330) 343-9600 to schedule an appointment.