Do You Suffer From Allergies?

Sumter, South Carolina is a hotbed for allergies.  We constantly hear of patients moving to the area who are exhibiting allergy symptoms for the first time ever.  Most times these include itchy & watery eyes, runny nose, hives and rashes.  Some allergens are obvious like cats, dogs, flowers, perfumes or chemicals which can trigger an immediate reaction.  There are also grasses, trees, fungi, dust and cockroaches that may cause some less obvious symptoms.  That ‘tickle in the throat’, that chronic nagging cough, or the sense of ‘always being sick’ with bronchitis or sinusitis, could be from allergies as well.

Allergies can be treated with pills, prescription nasal sprays or even sometimes allergy shots.  Having allergies does not mean that you cannot be a proud pet owner nor have the best lawn and garden in town.  I am personally allergic to cats and dogs [as well as a host of other thing], yet we have 2 long haired German shepherds and 3 long haired cats.  My symptoms are completely controlled with a prescription nasal spray.

If over the counter medicines are not working for you, feel free to come in and see one of our providers and ask about our allergy clinic.  We will see you today.

Posted by: Dr. Ike Stewart
Board Certified Family Physician
Colonial Family Practice, Sumter, SC