Allergies

Urgent Care, Telemedicine & Primary Care Practice located in El Centro, Brawley, Calimesa and Calexico, CA

Allergies services offered in El Centro, Brawley, Calimesa and Calexico, CA

You don’t have to live with sneezing, watery eyes, or a stuffy nose due to allergies, as simple treatments can provide relief. At All Valley Urgent Care in Brawley and El Centro, California, experienced physicians Luis E. Verduzco, MD, Brian Tyson, MD, and the other staff members diagnose and treat allergies to alleviate bothersome symptoms and help you live your best life. Call the office to schedule an in-person or telemedicine appointment, or use the online booking feature today.

Allergies Q&A

What are allergies?

Allergies are your body’s response to allergens. Symptoms appear when your immune system reacts to substances that aren’t bothersome to many other people. Common allergens include:

Bee venom
Pet dander
Latex
Some medications
Pollen
Mold
Dust mites
Food

Common food allergens include wheat, shellfish, soy, eggs, milk, peanuts, and tree nuts. If you or a loved one experiences allergy symptoms, schedule an evaluation.

What are the symptoms of allergies?

The symptoms associated with allergies include:

Sneezing
Watery, itchy, or red eyes
Nasal congestion
Runny nose
Shortness of breath
Difficulty breathing
Hives
Rash
Facial swelling
Itchy skin
Wheezing
Chest tightness
Going into shock

Your symptoms might be mild, moderate, or severe. You may also have asthma, which can cause severe shortness of breath in some cases.

What are the risk factors for allergies?

The cause of allergies isn’t completely clear, but your risk of developing them increases if you have asthma, a family history of allergies or asthma, or if you’re a child. While you may not be able to prevent allergies, getting treated for them is the best way to avoid potential complications — including life-threatening allergic reactions.

How are allergies diagnosed?

Your urgent care specialist diagnoses allergies using various methods. They often use blood tests, a skin prick test, or patch testing to expose your skin to tiny amounts of potential allergens. A raised skin bump indicates an allergic reaction. Your provider might recommend lung function (breathing) tests to screen for asthma.

How are allergies treated?

Your personalized treatment for allergies may include taking oral medicines, using nasal sprays, avoiding allergens, or receiving allergy shots. Your doctor may give you emergency epinephrine (EpiPen®) to use in the case of a severe allergic reaction. If you have asthma, you might need an inhaler to help you breathe easier.

It’s important to adopt healthy habits that include eating a nutritious diet, getting regular exercise, and keeping your home clean to reduce mold, dust, and pet dander. Change air filters often to maximize indoor air quality.

To get screened and treated for allergies, schedule an appointment at All Valley Urgent Care by phone or request one online today.