An allergy occurs when the immune system identifies a normally harmless substance — such as pollen, pet dander, a specific food, or an insect’s venom — as a threat, triggering an inflammatory response. Allergic conditions are driven by IgE antibodies and the subsequent release of histamine and other immune mediators. Genetics, environment, and early life exposures all play a role in who develops allergic disease.
Common Signs & Symptoms
- Nasal congestion, sneezing, or runny nose
- Itchy, watery, or red eyes
- Skin rashes, hives, or eczema
- Asthma, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- Digestive symptoms following food exposure
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- Fatigue and sleep disruption from allergic symptoms
How We Diagnose
Proper allergy diagnosis requires more than a symptom checklist. Our allergists use allergy skin testing, specific IgE blood panels, pulmonary function testing, and oral challenges when needed to build an accurate, comprehensive picture of your allergic sensitization pattern. We test for the most clinically relevant allergens in the Bay Area and Northern California regions.
Treatment Options
Treatment is always individualized and may include allergen avoidance strategies tailored to your sensitivities, pharmacotherapy (antihistamines, nasal steroids, eye drops, inhalers), biologic therapies for moderate-to-severe allergic disease, and allergen immunotherapy for durable, long-term desensitization. We treat the full allergy-asthma-eczema spectrum and coordinate care with your primary care physician.
Ready to Schedule?
Do not manage your allergies alone. Connect with the specialists at South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group and discover what personalized allergy care can do for your health and quality of life. Call us at (408) 286-1707 or request an appointment online.