Allergies and Asthma
Dr. Michael Temkin, DO
Board Certified Internal Medicine & Primary Care located in San Ramon, CA
Board Certified Internal Medicine & Primary Care located in San Ramon, CA
About Dr. Temkin
“I consider myself a very proactive physician. I focus on getting my patients looking and feeling their best.”
Many children and adults suffer from allergies and asthma. Beyond the sniffling and sneezing and coughing and wheezing, these health conditions can present complications that significantly impact quality of life and even lead to hospitalization. As a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Michael Temkin has a unique perspective on conditions such as allergies and asthma and can offer effective treatment to alleviate symptoms and prevent them in the future. Call or book online to schedule an appointment at his office in San Ramon, California.
Allergies and Asthma Q & A
Why do allergies and asthma often occur together?
An allergic reaction occurs when your immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless substance like pollen or cat dander as an invader. In an attempt to protect your body from the substance, your immune system releases chemicals that lead to allergic reactions, which can range from mild to severe. For some patients, an allergic reaction affects their lungs and airways, leading to asthma symptoms.
What types of things cause allergies?
The substances that cause allergies are called allergens, and you can develop an allergy at any time in life. Allergens can be environmental, airborne, or food-related.
Eight common food allergens are responsible for nearly 90% of food allergies:
Eight common food allergens are responsible for nearly 90% of food allergies:
- Milk (mostly in children)
- Eggs
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts, like walnuts, almonds, pine nuts, brazil nuts, and pecans
- Soy
- Wheat
- Fish (mostly in adults)
- Shellfish (mostly in adults)
What is asthma?
Asthma is a condition where your airways narrow, swell, and produce extra mucus, which can make it difficult to breathe. Common symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Things that trigger asthma vary from person to person and can include:
Things that trigger asthma vary from person to person and can include:
- Airborne substances, such as pollen, dust mites, or mold
- Animal dander
- Cold air
- Exercise
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Respiratory infections like colds
- Smoke or smog
- Strong emotions and stress
- Sulfites and preservatives added to some types of foods and beverages
How does Dr. Temkin treat allergies and asthma?
To properly diagnose your allergies and asthma, Dr. Temkin evaluates your health history, examines you, and takes note of your current symptoms. Then he offers a treatment plan to provide relief from your allergies or asthma. This may include medications, inhalers, or lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding the substances or activities that bring on your symptoms.
Services
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Give us a call to schedule a consultation to discuss your symptoms and health goals and schedule a lab test.