Skin Test Archives - McGovern Allergy And Asthma Clinic
Pollen and Allergy Season: 5 Important Things to Know

Pollen and Allergy Season: 5 Important Things to Know

Pollen and allergy season has arrived! Although most of us enjoy the spring weather with the joys of outdoor activities, this season also brings more environmental allergens. Pollen is one of the most common allergens that trigger a local human reaction during this time of the year. Let’s take a closer look at pollen and how it affects allergy sufferers. What is Pollen? Pollen is a delicate powder-like substance plants produce as part of their reproductive process. The grains contain the plant’s male...

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Contact Dermatitis and Cosmetics

Contact Dermatitis and Cosmetics

Contact dermatitis can be caused by cosmetics if you have a skin allergy to one of the ingredients. This is especially the case during the month of October as everyone puts on face paint and makeup for their Halloween costumes. It’s important when selecting face paint or Halloween makeup to read the ingredients and to avoid cosmetics with harsh chemicals or skin allergens.   What is Contact Dermatitis? Contact dermatitis is a rash or skin irritation that appears after contact with an affecting skin allergen....

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Get the Most Out of Your Allergy Appointment: What You Should Know

Get the Most Out of Your Allergy Appointment: What You Should Know

Get the most out of your allergy appointment! Knowing how to prepare and what questions to ask at your allergy appointment is important to help your allergist manage your symptoms and to improve your overall well-being. Here are some important things to consider beforehand and share with your allergist during your allergy appointment. Before Your Allergy Appointment Before your allergy appointment, it’s beneficial to fill out your forms ahead of time so you can take your time thinking about what symptoms you are...

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What Are Hives?

What Are Hives?

What are hives? Urticaria, also known as hives, is an outbreak of red bumps or welts on the skin that various triggers can cause. If you have experienced an outbreak before or for the first time, it is important to know your treatment options with your allergist. Understanding a Hives Outbreak What are hives, and what are their causes? Various internal and external triggers can cause hives (urticaria). Hives typically will fade after 24 hours, but some outbreaks can last longer depending on the type of urticaria:...

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Insect Sting Allergies: What You Should Know

Insect Sting Allergies: What You Should Know

  Insect sting allergies can be painful on the skin, often causing redness, swelling, and irritation. However, those with insect sting allergies can experience more severe symptoms that can cause an immune system reaction within the body. It’s important to understand different types of reactions to determine if you need to pay a visit to your allergist.   Mild versus Severe Reactions Symptoms of a mild allergic reaction include: Pain in the affected area Redness or pimple-like spots Mild swelling Hot to...

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Is It Food Allergies or Contact Allergies?

Is It Food Allergies or Contact Allergies?

Is it food allergies or contact allergies? Some differences are important to note if you have noticed a rash and are wondering if the reaction was caused by food or contact allergies. Learn how to tell the difference and some treatment options in our blog. Food Allergies vs. Contact Allergies And Their Reactions A food allergy is when the body’s immune system reacts unusually to specific foods. An allergen or irritant similarly causes contact allergies. But how do you know if you have a food allergy or...

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