An allergy is an exaggerated immune response to a biologic protein. Hundreds of common substances can trigger an allergic reaction. These are referred to as "allergens". By taking a careful history, performing a complete allergy-directed physical examination and by skin testing, The Allergy Clinic can help pinpoint what causes your allergy symptoms.

Asthma is not really a "disease" but a syndrome that may be caused by various triggers, including sinus infections, viral infections or blood allergy, acid reflux, exercise, medication, insects and allergens. Symptoms include a tight feeling in the chest, cough, shortness of breath, or wheezing. Allergy plays a significant role in some asthmatics.

The immune system is well equipped to defend the human body. Sometimes it responds to allergens with sneezing, itching, coughing and wheezing. The tendency toward allergies and asthma is linked to heredity.

Most common respiratory allergies are caused by dust mites, pollen, mold spores and pet dander, which results in what is commonly called hay or sinus.

The good news is that only about two percent of the population is affected by true food allergies. The bad news is that if you're one of them, it's no fun. However, unlike pollen and dust, the foods you're allergic to are more easily avoided once you know which foods give you trouble. New, effective forms of treatment are coming.

The best way to prevent allergies is to avoid whatever you are allergic to. Realistically, this isn't always possible, especially if you're allergic to such common things as pollen and dust mites. The Lake Charles Allergy Clinic can help to minimize your exposure to allergens. Certain medications and allergy shots, help prevent allergy in the long term.

It depends on what you're allergic to. Here are just a few suggestions to reduce most common allergens:

Living Room: If possible, replace carpeting with wood or vinyl floors - or vacuum twice a week with high filtration bags. Keep all plants outside to reduce mold exposure. Avoid tobacco smoke. Wash pets frequently, better yet, keep them outside. Replace thick draperies with light, washable ones, or blinds.

Bedroom: Don't allow pets in your bedrooms. Use allergen-proof encasements for mattresses and pillows. Wash linens and throw rugs in hot water. Keep clothes and shoes in a closed closet.

Outside: Keep the outside out of your house by keeping your windows closed. Also, do not let pets come in and out because they are likely to pick up pollen on their fur and bring it indoors.

Though occasionally helpful, electrostatic HEPA filters are not effective for many causes of allergies. Make sure what you're allergic to can actually be filtered by the unit.