Allergies

What are Allergies?

Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance, such as pollen, pet dander, certain foods, or medication, as if it were a threat. These substances, known as allergens, trigger the immune response, which can cause various symptoms ranging from mild to severe.

Common Types of Allergies

1. Seasonal Allergies (Hay Fever)

• Caused by: Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds.
• Symptoms: Sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and sore throat.

2. Food Allergies

• Common triggers: Peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, and fish.
• Symptoms: Hives, swelling, stomach pain, vomiting, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.

3. Drug Allergies

• Caused by: Reactions to medications such as penicillin, aspirin, or other antibiotics.
• Symptoms: Rash, itching, swelling, and breathing difficulties.

4. Insect Sting Allergies

• Caused by: Stings from bees, wasps, hornets, or fire ants.
• Symptoms: Redness, swelling at the sting site, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.

5. Skin Allergies

• Includes: Eczema, contact dermatitis, and hives.
• Caused by: Contact with allergens such as latex, certain metals, or cosmetics.

Common Symptoms of Allergies

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Sneezing
• Hives or skin rash
• Swelling: Often in the face, lips, or tongue.
• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• Stomach cramps, nausea, or diarrhea
• Anaphylaxis: A severe, life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Genetic predisposition: Allergies often run in families.
• Environmental exposure: Repeated exposure to allergens can trigger an immune response.
• Asthma and other conditions: People with asthma or other allergic conditions are more likely to develop allergies.

Diagnosis

• Medical history and symptom assessment
• Skin prick test: A small amount of allergen is applied to the skin to check for a reaction.
• Blood tests: To measure levels of allergen-specific antibodies (IgE).
• Elimination diet: To identify food allergies by removing potential triggers and reintroducing them one by one.

Treatment Options

• Medications:
  • Antihistamines: To relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
  • Decongestants: To reduce nasal congestion.
  • Corticosteroids: Nasal sprays or creams to reduce inflammation.
  • Epinephrine auto-injectors: For emergency treatment of anaphylaxis.
• Immunotherapy:
  • Allergy shots: Gradually introduce small doses of allergens to build tolerance.
  • Sublingual tablets: Taken under the tongue to reduce allergic reactions over time.
• Avoidance:
  • Identify and avoid triggers: Minimize exposure to known allergens.

Prevention and Management Strategies

• Keep windows closed: To prevent pollen from entering the home during allergy seasons.
• Use air purifiers: To filter allergens from indoor air.
• Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors to remove pollen and other allergens.
• Maintain a clean environment: Regularly wash bedding, vacuum with a HEPA filter, and reduce dust and mold.
• Carry an epinephrine auto-injector: For those with severe allergies at risk for anaphylaxis.

Complications of Allergies

• Anaphylaxis: A severe, life-threatening allergic reaction.
• Asthma: Allergies can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms.
• Chronic sinusitis: Persistent inflammation of the nasal passages.
• Skin infections: Resulting from scratching due to allergic skin reactions.