Allergy & Immunology

It’s estimated that more than 50 million Americans experience some form of allergies. “It can interfere with your sleep, you know because you’re unable to breathe out of your nose, you’re going to be mouth breathing, snoring, it can affect your quality of sleep and productivity,” said Lee Health Allergist and Immunologist Dr. Laura Veras.

What exactly is an allergy? “Your immune system recognizes things that are outside of your body, something from your environment that’s not necessarily harmful, but for some reason, it recognizes it as something that could potentially be harmful,” said Dr. Veras.

Dr. Veras said we’re not born with allergies; they develop over time due to exposure. “Once you develop an allergy, the best way to prevent symptoms is by avoiding the thing you’re allergic to.”

For some people, allergies can be worse than others. “In a susceptible individual, once they have allergies, they can be more prone to develop other environmental allergies,” said Dr. Veras.

For itchiness, runniness, and sneezing, an over-the-counter treatment may be just what you need.” The best ones are going to be the ones that don’t cause sedation or won’t make you groggy,” said Dr. Veras. If your symptoms persist, visit Leehealth.org to speak with an allergist who can make a treatment plan that’s right for you.