Allergy Services

An allergy is a condition in which your immune system regards an ordinary, harmless substance such as a food, pollen or dust, as a dangerous invader, and responds to it by producing its own antibodies to attack the substance. An allergy normally causes an instant reaction, such as in the case of a fish, nut or milk allergy. Many people confuse an allergy with intolerance. Food intolerance is a digestive system response rather than an immune system response and many times can be attributed to milk or wheat. Because you probably eat these foods everyday, your body has built up a coping mechanism. After a number of years however, the body won't be able to cope as well and long-term symptoms may set in. At SLVRMC, we work to diagnose the symptoms, find the underlying cause and seek treatment with the appropriate medications.

The following conditions are often brought on by allergies and intolerances:

• Arthritis, rheumatism, joint pain
• Asthma and other breathing problems
• Colitis
• Constant catarrh or runny nose
• Constant tiredness
• Crohn's Disease
• Eczema, dermatitis, acne or psoriasis
• Gas, bloating
• Headaches, migraines
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Menstrual problems
• Mental conditions (eg. depression, hyperactivity)
• Sinusitis, sinus headache and swollen sinuses

Medical Staff

Findley West, RN

Visit our Ear, Nose, and Throat Services page.