ALLERGY FACTS

What is an allergy?
What symptoms can be treated?
What allergens can be treated?           
Food allergies

WHAT SYMPTOMS CAN BE TREATED?

A sensitivity or inappropriate reaction may cause symptoms from any organ system in the body. Some systems are prone to reacting to certain families of allergies or substances, such as the respiratory system reacting to pollen. However, a substance may affect any organ system, which could cause a multitude of symptoms varying from case to case. For example, a reaction to wheat may cause hives in one person, digestive issues in another, fatigue, wheezing or Acid Reflux all in different patients. AAT addresses the specific organ systems affected by the allergen or offending substance.

Digestive System
Symptoms include reflux, heartburn, abdominal and intestinal pain, cramping, gas, bloating, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. Primarily caused by reactions to food or other ingestants.

Respiratory System
Symptoms include sneezing, congestion, runny nose, wheezing, shortness of breath, coughs, postnasal drip, skin conditions, rashes and itchy, watery eyes. Reactions may be associated with pollens, dust, food, chemicals and animals (including dog and cat dander and bird feathers), air-borne substances and contactants.

Dermatological
Symptoms may include red, itchy, or scaly skin rashes, blisters with oozing and crusting, dry leathery patches or hives. The main cause of dermatological reactions can be a reaction to food but can also be caused by plants, contactants and chemicals.

Headaches and Migraines
May be caused by reactions to food such as chocolate and caffeine, airborne irritants such as pollens and chemicals including household cleaners, perfumes and vehicle fumes.

Tiredness and Fatigue
Many reactions result in lethargy and feelings of fatigue. Tiredness can also occur at certain times of the day, such as in the afternoon after eating.

Multiple Systems
Symptoms may affect multiple systems in the body, resulting in headaches, irritability, hyperactivity, mood swings, fatigue, tachycardia, or inflammation.

General
Chemicals - household cleaners, perfumes, building materials, washing detergent, pesticides
Occupational sensitivities such as latex or building materials, such as paints, glues, carpets, woods or varnishes
Animals
Heat, cold and humidity/dampness

Symptoms associated with an allergy or sensitivity can contribute to common conditions such as: asthma, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). However not all cases involve allergies or sensitivities.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is primarily caused by sensitivities and affects approximately 15% of the population. Common symptoms include diarrhea, constipation, bloating and abdominal pain.

Skin conditions, such as eczema, dermatitis and hives are commonly associated with the symptoms of an allergy or sensitivity.