Allergy Care at University of Colorado Hospital
Why Choose Treatment for Allergies at University of Colorado Hospital?
At University of Colorado Hospital, you'll have access to providers who, because they are at an academic hospital, are well aware of the latest developments in research, medicine and treatments for a wide range of allergic and related conditions, including:
- Asthma
- Rhinitis (hay fever)
- Urticaria (hives)
- Angioedema (swelling)
- Anaphylaxis
- Sinusitis
- Atopic dermatitis
- Contact dermatitis (inflammation of skin or rash)
What are Allergies?
Allergies are fairly common, affecting more than one out of every five people. With an allergic reaction, the body's immune system reacts to an otherwise harmless substance. It may be a particular food, plant or even dust particle.
The most common substances that can cause allergies include:
- Pollen
- Dust mites
- Pet dander
- Mold
- Food
An allergy, however, is different from a sensitivity. A sensitivity involves a part of the body, such as the digestive system, reacting to a foreign substance. Allergies, by contrast, involve the body's immune system. Needless to say, people often confuse allergies with sensitivities, and end up treating the wrong kind of ailment.
Your medical staff at UCH will help you determine if your symptoms are caused by an allergy or a sensitivity, and then offer you the most effective treatment options.
Allergies can cause:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Itching
- Rashes
Though allergies can be disruptive for you, they aren't typically life-threatening. In very rare cases, an allergic reaction called anaphylaxis can cause someone to have difficulty breathing.
Allergy Research
Ongoing allergy research at UCH includes trials for the treatment of hereditary angioedema and research that examines the basis of the peanut allergy, which can cause a life-threatening allergic reaction.