As we age, our health needs are constantly changing. However, the need for quality, competent medical care remains the same regardless of age. So when we hear our older patients say that they’re too old for allergy treatments, we vehemently disagree. Our policy is to provide each and every patient that walks through our doors the same top-notch allergy care, including elderly patients. In this post, we’ll go over why older people need to seek quality allergy care and how we tailor that care to meet the elderly population’s unique health needs.
Understanding Allergies in Older Adults
Late-onset allergies, or those affecting people ages 65 and older, are not uncommon. As we grow older, our immune systems often change, making us susceptible to developing new allergies. Those allergy symptoms are the same as with younger patients, including:
- Sneezing
- Itching
- Nasal congestion
- Skin reactions
- Difficulty breathing
However, since older adults don’t have the same stamina as their younger counterparts, allergy symptoms often lead to fatigue that can be quite debilitating.
Why Treatment Is Important at Any Age
Allergies are often the first stepping stone on the way to more serious issues, like sinus infections, sleep problems, and respiratory disease. Additionally, allergies severely compromise quality of life in older adults, as mentioned above. Delaying treatment for allergies can stop elderly patients from being able to enjoy outdoor activities, spend time with loved ones, or even leave their own homes.
Tailored Allergy Treatments for Older Adults
At Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates of Tampa Bay, we always consider the age and current conditions of the patient when developing a treatment plan. All of our plans incorporate education, awareness, preventative strategies, steps for handling acute allergy reactions, and a medication plan. After we determine your specific allergy triggers using allergy testing techniques, we will work with you to create an allergy management plan that fits your needs and lifestyle, in collaboration with your entire medical treatment team. This may include allergy drops or shots, oral or inhaled medications, and other treatment methods.
Our Commitment to Patients of All Ages
Everyone deserves to live an allergy-free life, no matter their age. We aim to provide top-quality care for all of our patients, young and old. Our approach is logical yet compassionate, taking all your concerns into account while developing a treatment plan that will best control your allergy symptoms. Stop believing that you’re too old to get allergy treatment! Our Tampa Bay team is here to offer you support at every step, with guidance and advice to help you navigate this health journey during the later phases of life.
To find out more about how we can help you find allergy relief, or to schedule an appointment, contact us at (813) 971-9743.
