Personalized Allergy Care You Can Count On
Allergy Treatment in Odessa, Port Richey & Spring Hill, FL
If you live in Florida, allergies can feel like a year-round battle. Sneezing through spring, itching your way through summer, and constantly wondering if the food you just ate or the air you just breathed is going to make you miserable. Allergies aren’t just annoying—they’re exhausting. At Kratz Allergy & Asthma, we understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to help.
With three convenient clinics in Odessa, Port Richey, and Spring Hill, we provide expert, compassionate care for patients struggling with a wide range of allergy-related concerns. Whether your symptoms are environmental, food-related, skin-based, or sinus-driven, our goal is the same: to uncover what’s causing the problem and create a plan that actually works.
How Allergies Disrupt Daily Life
Allergies affect more than just your nose—they affect how you sleep, focus, eat, and interact with the world. Some patients come to us after months of constant nasal congestion or headaches. Others struggle with unexplained skin rashes or stomach upset after meals. And many have tried over-the-counter medications that provide only temporary relief or none at all.
We take your symptoms seriously because we know they affect your quality of life. Our team looks beyond surface-level treatments to help you identify triggers, reduce flare-ups, and restore your confidence and comfort.
Most Common Allergens for Florida Residents
Living in Florida means dealing with a very specific mix of allergens that thrive in our warm, humid environment. If you’ve lived here for any length of time, you know that allergy season isn’t just one season—it’s nearly all year. Here’s what you may be reacting to:
- Tree Pollen (Spring and Early Summer): Oak, pine, cypress, and bayberry trees release significant pollen in the spring.
- Grass Pollen (Late Spring to Early Summer): Bermuda and Bahia grasses are major contributors to seasonal allergic rhinitis.
- Weed Pollen (Late Summer to Fall): Ragweed, dog fennel, and pigweed pollen increase in late summer and fall.
- Mold Spores (Year-Round, Especially in Humid Months): Florida’s humidity creates the perfect environment for indoor and outdoor mold to thrive.
- Dust Mites (Year-Round): These microscopic pests love Florida homes with carpeting and AC systems.
- Pet Dander: Cat and dog allergens are common in households and often go hand-in-hand with environmental allergies.
- Cockroach Allergens: Common in urban areas and can worsen asthma and allergy symptoms.
We perform comprehensive allergy testing to identify which of these culprits are responsible for your symptoms—because until you know what you’re reacting to, it’s hard to treat it effectively.
What We Treat at Kratz Allergy & Asthma
Our board-certified specialists diagnose and treat a wide range of allergy-related conditions. Every patient is unique, which is why we take the time to listen to your symptoms, ask about your environment and lifestyle, and create a care plan that fits your life.
Seasonal and Environmental Allergies
If you’re constantly congested, sneezing, or rubbing your eyes, you may be allergic to pollen, mold, or dust mites. These symptoms often worsen with Florida’s seasonal weather shifts or after spending time outdoors. We offer targeted treatment options including allergy testing, medications, and allergy shots to help reduce your sensitivity over time.
Food Allergies
Whether it’s peanuts, shellfish, dairy, or something less obvious, food allergies can lead to rashes, nausea, or even life-threatening reactions. We offer detailed food allergy evaluations and ongoing management, so you know what to avoid and how to protect yourself.
Chronic Hives and Skin Reactions
Hives, or urticaria, can appear suddenly and linger for days or weeks. In many cases, they’re connected to an allergic trigger. Our Hives/Urticaria Specialists identify potential causes and help manage symptoms with medications and long-term strategies.
Eczema With an Allergic Link
Eczema, especially in children, is often tied to allergies—both environmental and food-related. If you’re dealing with red, itchy, inflamed skin that doesn’t improve with basic treatments, our eczema specialists can help identify root causes and develop a tailored skincare and allergy relief plan.
Recurring Sinus Infections
Chronic sinusitis can feel like a never-ending cold, often made worse by allergic inflammation. If you experience frequent facial pressure, nasal congestion, or post-nasal drip, allergies could be to blame. Our sinusitis and rhinosinusitis care includes diagnostics and allergy testing to uncover the connection between your sinuses and your immune system.
Concerns About Medication Allergies
If you’ve been labeled as allergic to a common antibiotic like penicillin, you may be avoiding medications unnecessarily. We offer safe, clinical antibiotic skin testing to confirm or rule out allergies, allowing your primary care provider more flexibility with treatment.
Allergy Testing Tailored to You
We offer several types of testing depending on your symptoms and history:
- Skin Prick Testing: Identifies environmental and food allergens quickly and reliably
- Blood (IgE) Testing: Useful when skin testing isn’t possible or when multiple sensitivities are suspected
- Patch Testing: Identifies delayed allergic reactions to substances like nickel, latex, or fragrances
Once we know what you’re reacting to, we can begin to map out an action plan that works for your schedule and symptoms.
Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy) for Long-Term Relief
If medications aren’t enough or you’re tired of dealing with persistent symptoms year after year, immunotherapy may be a good option. Allergy shots gradually desensitize your immune system to allergens like pollen, mold, dust mites, and pet dander.
Our allergy shot program is available at all three of our locations, with flexible scheduling for busy patients. Many people begin to see improvement within six months and can reduce their need for medications over time.
Pediatric Allergy Care
Allergies often show up in childhood and can affect sleep, school performance, and daily comfort. We treat children of all ages with a gentle, personalized approach that includes testing, education, and treatment plans that are safe and manageable for young patients and families.
If your child is struggling with eczema, frequent colds, or reactions to foods, don’t wait—early diagnosis can make all the difference.
Where to Find Us
Kratz Allergy & Asthma proudly serves families across the Tampa Bay area with three convenient clinic locations:
Each location provides the same comprehensive services, so no matter where you are, expert allergy care is close by.
FAQs About Allergies and Treatment
How do I know if I have allergies or just a cold?
The symptoms of allergies and colds can overlap—like sneezing, congestion, or a runny nose—but there are a few key differences. Colds typically come on quickly and last around 7–10 days. They may be accompanied by a fever, body aches, and fatigue. Allergies, on the other hand, tend to last longer and are more predictable. If your symptoms worsen during certain seasons or occur in specific environments—like around pets or after mowing the lawn—it’s likely allergies. At Kratz Allergy & Asthma, we use diagnostic testing to help you get a definitive answer and the right treatment.
Do allergy shots work for everyone?
Allergy shots, or immunotherapy, are highly effective for many people—but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. They’re typically recommended for individuals with moderate to severe allergies who don’t respond well to medications or who want long-term relief. The process involves regular injections of small doses of allergens over time, helping your immune system build tolerance. Most patients start seeing improvements within 6–12 months. We’ll help you evaluate whether allergy shots are the right fit based on your test results, medical history, and lifestyle.
Are food allergies the same as food intolerances?
While they’re often confused, food allergies and food intolerances are very different. A food allergy is an immune system reaction—it can cause hives, swelling, breathing problems, or even anaphylaxis. A food intolerance, such as lactose intolerance, usually affects digestion and causes symptoms like bloating, cramps, or diarrhea but doesn’t involve the immune system. Food allergies can be life-threatening, while intolerances are uncomfortable but generally not dangerous. Our food allergy specialists help distinguish between the two using medical history, symptom review, and proper testing.
Can my child outgrow their allergies?
Yes, many children do outgrow certain allergies, especially to foods like milk, eggs, and wheat. However, allergies to nuts, fish, or shellfish are more likely to persist. Environmental allergies—like pollen or dust mites—may change as your child grows but rarely disappear completely without treatment. At Kratz Allergy & Asthma, we provide ongoing care for children, tracking allergy development and adjusting treatment as they grow. Regular check-ups and retesting can help determine if your child has outgrown an allergy and guide their care safely.
Is it possible to be allergic to more than one thing?
Definitely. It’s common for people to have multiple allergies. You might react to a mix of seasonal allergens (like grass or tree pollen), indoor allergens (like dust mites or pet dander), and even certain foods. This can make it hard to pinpoint what’s causing your symptoms without proper testing. That’s why we perform comprehensive allergy evaluations—so we can uncover the full picture and create a treatment plan that addresses all your triggers, not just one.
How soon can I get tested?
In most cases, we can schedule your initial consultation quickly—sometimes within just a few days. After discussing your symptoms and medical history, we’ll determine the most appropriate testing method for you. Skin testing often provides same-day results, while blood tests may take a few days to return. The sooner we identify what’s causing your symptoms, the sooner we can create a plan to help you feel better. Just call the location nearest you in Odessa, Port Richey, or Spring Hill to get started.
Can allergies cause fatigue or brain fog?
Yes, absolutely. Many patients are surprised to learn that allergies don’t just affect your nose or skin—they can also cause mental and physical fatigue. Constant inflammation, poor sleep due to nasal congestion, or the body’s immune response to allergens can leave you feeling drained, foggy, or unfocused. If you’re always tired and can’t find the cause, untreated allergies could be playing a role. A full evaluation can help uncover hidden triggers and improve not only your allergy symptoms but your overall energy.
Do over-the-counter allergy medications really work?
For mild symptoms, over-the-counter antihistamines or decongestants can help temporarily. However, they often don’t treat the root cause and may become less effective over time. Plus, some medications can cause side effects like drowsiness or increased heart rate. If you find yourself constantly reaching for allergy pills without long-term improvement, it’s time to consider a professional evaluation. At Kratz Allergy & Asthma, we offer targeted treatments—including prescription options and allergy shots—that address the underlying cause and provide longer-lasting relief.
What’s the best time of year to get allergy tested in Florida?
Allergy testing can be done any time of year, but many patients benefit from getting tested before their worst season begins. In Florida, tree pollen hits hard in the spring, grasses in the early summer, and weed pollen spikes in late summer to fall. Mold and dust mites can be year-round problems. If you start testing and treatment in the months before your worst symptoms begin, you’ll be better prepared to manage them when the season hits. Our clinics in Odessa, Port Richey, and Spring Hill offer year-round testing and treatment to keep you one step ahead.
Can allergies make asthma worse?
Yes, there’s a strong connection between allergies and asthma—especially allergic asthma. Inhaling allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander can trigger inflammation in your airways, leading to coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or asthma attacks. If your asthma symptoms flare during specific seasons or environments, undiagnosed allergies may be a factor. Our team works closely with asthma patients to identify allergic triggers and create a combined plan that addresses both conditions for better long-term control.
Are there natural or lifestyle ways to reduce allergy symptoms?
While medical treatment is often necessary, there are several ways you can support allergy relief through your environment and habits. Using HEPA filters in your home, keeping windows closed during high pollen days, showering after being outdoors, and washing bedding regularly in hot water can all reduce exposure. For food allergies, label reading and ingredient awareness are key. Our specialists help you create an environment and routine that supports your health—not just with medications, but with practical lifestyle adjustments that make a real difference.
Take the First Step Toward Real Allergy Relief
You don’t have to live with frustrating symptoms or spend another season guessing what’s causing your flare-ups. Whether you’re managing environmental allergies, food sensitivities, or chronic skin reactions, Kratz Allergy & Asthma is here to help you take back control—with personalized care that actually works.
Call or schedule online today to visit us in Odessa, Port Richey, or Spring Hill and finally get the answers and relief you’ve been looking for.
FAQs about Allergies
What is the most common allergy?
The most common allergies are seasonal allergies caused by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds.
Can allergies develop later in life?
Yes, allergies can develop at any age, even if you have never had them.
What should I do if I have a severe allergic reaction?
If you experience a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face and throat, use an epinephrine auto-injector and seek immediate medical attention.
How can I reduce my risk of developing allergies?
While you cannot completely prevent allergies, you can reduce your risk by minimizing exposure to known allergens and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.