Allergy For Dummies

All the info you need to understand your allergies and manage symptoms

Allergy For Dummies is your one-stop source for comprehensive information on the different types of allergies and their triggers, along with tips on allergy management and prevention. Accessible, Dummies-style explanations will help you deal with hay fever, asthma, eczema, drug allergies, food sensitivities, and beyond—for yourself or anyone under your care. Get answers to your allergy-related questions, understand your triggers, and learn what you can do about allergies of all types. Ensure that you''re in control and receive the help you need, with this friendly guide.

• Identify what''s ailing you by getting tested for allergies and asthma
• Learn to treat food allergies, allergic skin conditions, drug reactions, and insect stings
• Know how to prevent anaphylaxis, and what to do if it occurs
• Understand your treatment options and find resources for additional information

Allergy For Dummies is for the millions of people around the world who suffer from some kind of allergic sensitivity and need a thorough and approachable guide on the topic.

Introduction 1

Part 1: Getting Started with Allergy Basics 5

Chapter 1: Knowing What’s Ailing You 7

Chapter 2: Understanding Your Immune System 23

Chapter 3: Dealing With Physician Visits 41

Part 2: Knowing Your Nose 57

Chapter 4: Nosing Around Allergic Rhinitis 59

Chapter 5: Avoiding Environmental Allergens 75

Chapter 6: Treating Your Rhinitis 93

Chapter 7: Assessing Common Nasal Allergy Complications 115

Part 3: Approaching Asthma 133

Chapter 8: Reviewing Asthma Fundamentals 135

Chapter 9: Recognizing Asthma Triggers 157

Chapter 10: Living Well with Asthma 175

Part 4: Understanding Allergic Skin Conditions 191

Chapter 11: Controlling Atopic Dermatitis 193

Chapter 12: Evaluating Contact Dermatitis 209

Chapter 13: Evaluating Hives and Angioedema 231

Part 5: Reviewing Food, Drug, and Insect Allergies 249

Chapter 14: Diagnosing and Managing Food Allergies 251

Chapter 15: Understanding and Treating Food Allergies. 267

Chapter 16: Diagnosing and Treating Drug Reactions 277

Chapter 17: Preventing Insect Sting Reactions 291

Part 6: The Part of Tens 305

Chapter 18: Top Ten List of Allergy Triggers 307

Chapter 19: Top Ten Body Organs Affected by Allergies 315

Index 325

William E. Berger, MD, MBA, has more than 40 years of clinical experience diagnosing and treating patients with allergies and asthma. He founded the Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California, where he practiced both adult and pediatric allergy and immunology.

Nicole M. Faris, MSc, has devoted her career to advancing the under­standing of allergies, drawing on more than 20 years of experience in industry, pediatric research, and patient advocacy. Her personal journey with food allergies has enriched her perspective on effective allergy care.

Explore asthma, eczema, and other allergic conditions

Achoo! Oh, that’s just allergies. Have you ever wondered why you get the seasonal sniffles? Allergy For Dummies explains the science behind allergic reactions and offers tips for managing symptoms. Find out how to identify the cause of your allergies, including your allergic triggers, and get the treatment you need. If you can’t tolerate certain foods, or you have trouble breathing, this book has what you need to investigate and treat food allergies and asthma, as well as skin rashes and other symptoms. St