Allergies Doctor
Defeat allergies naturally! Dr. Christopher Roberts addresses the underlying causes of allergies – instead of just treating symptoms – so you can improve your health without unnecessary drugs or surgery. To learn more or to schedule your appointment, feel free to contact our clinic online, by calling 417-622-0911 or by visiting our Joplin office. We're looking forward to hearing from you.
Food allergies have negative implications on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) scores. This impact affects not only health but also finances for those who suffer from these allergies (2016). Similarly to those afflicted with food allergies, seasonal allergy suffers also demonstrated low HRQOL scores. HRQOL issues in adult rhinitis patients include fatigue, decreased energy, general health perception, and social function (Meltzer, 2001). Meltzer also notes that in children, concerns demonstrated via HRQOL scores include challenges with learning, peer and family integration, and additional health concerns such as sinus, middle ear, and respiratory infections (2001). Clearly, allergies, food or seasonal, are nothing to sneeze at.
Allergies are an immune response, occurring when the body recognizes a substance as foreign or dangerous, e.g., pollen, latex, peanuts. According to Mayo Clinic: "the severity of allergies varies from person to person and can range from minor irritation to anaphylaxis — a potentially life-threatening emergency (2018)."
Although some people outgrow their allergies, the majority of sufferers often do not. Many are plagued throughout their lives, and despite various remedies, the most common treatments are prescription and over the counter (OTC) drugs. However, given these treatments come with their own laundry list of side effects, the risks and not to mention the cost over a life time, may not be worth it. Addressing the root cause of why allergies occur in the first place is the only way to accurately and appropriately treat allergies.
A Functional Approach to Allergies
Dr. Roberts employs a functional approach that addresses the underlying causes of allergies. He spends time with his patients, listening to their histories taking the a range of health factors – including stress management, sleep hygiene, and physical activity (Cleveland Clinic, 2020) – into consideration.