Allergic reactions are extremely common. The intensity of symptoms varies among people and the severity of the allergy.

If you suffer from allergic rhinitis and the symptoms are bothersome, I advise you to consult a doctor first to find the allergen in question. Most often this is done by means of skin tests. Subsequently, this allergen should obviously be avoided as far as possible. If necessary, medication can relieve symptoms. But if symptoms persist and the drugs are ineffective or cause too many side effects, desensitization treatment may be used.

If you have an allergy to insect venom, you must consult a doctor and always have an epinephrine auto-injector handy. It could save your life. In addition, desensitization is often indicated.

Finally, if you have a food allergy, you have no choice but to avoid consuming the food for the rest of your life. If you have ever had a severe allergy, such as an anaphylactic reaction (swelling in the face or mouth, difficulty breathing or swallowing, wheezing, etc.), you should also always have an epinephrine auto-injector handy. from the hand.

D^r Jacques Allard, MD, FCMFC