What are Allergies?
Your body reacts to foreign proteins with allergies. Usually, these proteins (allergens) are harmless. On the other hand,
your body's immune system overreacts to the presence of a protein if you have an allergy to it.
What is an allergic reaction?
Your body's reaction to an allergen is called an allergic reaction. When an allergy sufferer comes into contact with a particular allergen for the first time, their body produces immunoglobulin E (IgE). Your immune system makes antibodies
to form IgE.
The mast cells (allergy cells) in your skin, respiratory tract (airways), and mucous membrane in the hollow organs from your mouth to your anus (gastrointestinal or GI tract) are all bound by IgE antibodies.
By carrying the allergens to the mast cell, also known as the allergy cell, where they bind to a specific receptor, the antibodies locate the allergens in your body and aid in their elimination. The allergy cell releases histamine as a result of this. Histamine is what causes your allergy symptoms.
Symptoms and Causes of Allergy:
Allergies are the immune system's overreaction to substances that are usually harmless, called allergens. The immune system misinterprets an allergen as a threat and produces chemicals, including histamine, to fight it when it enters the body. This reaction causes various symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Allergies
1. Respiratory Symptoms :
Sneezing : A common reaction to airborne allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander.
Runny or Stuffy Nose : Mucus production increases to trap and flush out allergens.
Coughing : Irritation in the throat or airways can trigger a cough.
Itchy, Watery Eyes : Eyes become irritated and watery due to allergens.
Shortness of Breath or Wheezing : Common in asthma, which can be triggered by allergies.
2. Skin Reactions :
Hives (Urticaria) : Raised, red, itchy welts on the skin, usually caused by food, insect stings, or contact with certain plants.
Eczema : Red, itchy, and inflamed skin, often exacerbated by allergens like certain foods or environmental factors.
Contact Dermatitis : Rash or irritation that occurs where the skin comes into contact with an allergen, such as poison ivy or certain chemicals.
3. Digestive Symptoms:
Nausea : Feeling sick to the stomach after consuming a food allergen.
Vomiting : Forceful expulsion of stomach contents, often due to food allergies.
Diarrhea : Frequent, watery bowel movements after ingesting an allergen.
4. Anaphylaxis:
A severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that can cause a drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat and tongue, and loss of consciousness. Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention.
Common Causes of Allergies :
1. Environmental Allergens :
Pollen : Trees, grasses, and weeds release pollen into the air, causing seasonal allergies (hay fever).
Dust Mites : Microscopic organisms that live in household dust.
Pet Dander : Skin flakes, saliva, and urine from pets can trigger allergies.
Mold: Fungi that release spores into the air, which can be inhaled.
2. Food Allergens :
Peanuts and Tree Nuts : Common food allergens that can cause severe reactions.
Shellfish and Fish : These proteins often cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.
Eggs, Milk, and Soy : Common in children, these allergies may be outgrown with age.
Wheat : Gluten in wheat can cause allergic reactions or celiac disease.
3. Insect Stings :
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Bees, Wasps, Hornets : Their venom can cause severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis in some individuals.
4. Medications :
Antibiotics : Penicillin and related drugs are common triggers.
Aspirin and NSAIDs : Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Anesthetics : Certain local and general anesthetics can trigger allergies.
5. Latex :
Gloves, balloons, and medical equipment made of latex can trigger allergic responses, especially in those
who are exposed to it often.
Diagnosis and Treatment for Allergies :
Diagnosis : Allergies are typically diagnosed through skin prick tests, blood tests, or elimination diets (for food
allergies).
Skin prick (scratch) tests can identify the allergens that cause your allergy symptoms. A little quantity of several potential allergens will be pricked into your skin by an allergist using a fine needle. The next step is to examine if the allergen causes your skin to respond Blood (IgE) tests can also identify allergies. They aren't as sensitive as skin prick tests, though. Blood tests assess your immune system's production of IgE antibodies against a particular protein.
Treatment :
Avoidance : Avoiding known allergens is the primary strategy.
Medications : Antihistamines, decongestants, corticosteroids, and bronchodilators help manage symptoms.
Immunotherapy : Allergy shots or sublingual tablets can help desensitize the immune system to allergens. A If over-the-counter and prescription treatments, as well as avoiding allergens, are insufficient to control your allergy symptoms, your healthcare provider may suggest immunotherapy, which involves allergy injections, or sublingual immunotherapy, which involves allergy drops. Over several months, the physician will progressively raise the dosage while exposing you to progressively less levels of allergens. A tolerance to the allergen is
developed by gradual exposure.
Epinephrine : For severe allergies, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) is essential.
Nasal sprays : Although it may take a few days to a week for these drugs to start working, they are quite safe and effective when taken regularly.
Fluticasone nasal spray (Flonase® or ClariSpray®).
Cromolyn sodium.
Antihistamine nasal sprays
The most effective medicine for those with symptoms of allergic rhinitis is usually nasal steroid sprays. Antihistamines may have other advantages in addition to blocking some of histamine's effects. Immunotherapy can alleviate a number
of symptoms associated with inhalant allergy exposure and aid in the development of a tolerance to allergens.
Prevention from Allergies :
Combining tactics to reduce allergen exposure and boost the immune system is the key to preventing allergies. The following general advice can help avoid allergies :
1. Identify and Avoid Triggers
Know Your Allergens : Get tested to identify specific allergens (e.g., pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, certain foods).
Minimize Exposure : Once you know your triggers, take steps to avoid them. For example:
When pollen counts are high, stay inside, especially in the early morning hours when pollen is at its highest.
* Dust Mites : Use allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers, wash bedding weekly in hot water, and vacuum frequently.
* Mold : Keep humidity levels low (below 50%), clean any moldy areas, and use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
* Pets : Keep pets out of bedrooms and off furniture and bathe them regularly.
2. Maintain a Clean Environment :
Frequent Cleaning : Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to dust and clean your house on a frequent basis.
Air Purification : To eliminate allergens in the air, use air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters.
Minimize Clutter : As clutter gathers dust, it may contain allergies and dust mites.
3. Strengthen Your Immune System :
Consume a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids to maintain a balanced diet and help lower inflammation.
Regular Exercise : Exercise can boost your immune system and reduce allergy symptoms.
Adequate Sleep : Ensure you get enough sleep to keep your immune system strong.
4. Use Medications Wisely :
Antihistamines: Prescription or over-the-counter antihistamines can aid in the treatment of symptoms.
Nasal Sprays : Corticosteroid nasal sprays reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy) : For long-term relief, consider allergy shots to build tolerance to allergens over time.
5. Consider Alternative Therapies :
Saline Nasal Rinse : Rinse your nasal passages with saline solution to remove allergens and mucus.
Probiotics : Some studies suggest that probiotics can improve the immune response and may reduce the severity of allergic reactions.
6. Consult a Healthcare Provider :
If you suspect you have allergies or your symptoms are severe, consult an allergist for proper testing and treatment recommendations.