Understanding allergies involves recognizing that they are the body's immune system's exaggerated response to substances that are typically harmless to most people, known as allergens. Here's an overview of key points to understand allergies better:

1. What Are Allergies?

An allergy occurs when the immune system identifies an otherwise harmless substance (e.g., pollen, food, pet dander) as a threat. The immune system overreacts, producing antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE), which release chemicals like histamine, causing symptoms.

2. Common Allergens

Environmental allergens: Pollen, mould, dust mites, animal dander.
Food allergens: Nuts, shellfish, milk, eggs, soy, wheat.
Medication allergies: Antibiotics (e.g., penicillin), aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Insect stings: Bee or wasp venom.
Contact allergens: Latex, metals (like nickel), and certain chemicals.

3. Types of Allergic Reactions

Mild Reactions: Include sneezing, itching, a runny nose, mild skin rashes, or hives.
Moderate Reactions: This may involve more significant skin reactions, swelling (especially around the eyes, lips, and throat), and respiratory symptoms like coughing and wheezing.
Severe Reactions (Anaphylaxis): Life-threatening and involves difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, a sudden drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. Immediate medical attention is required.

4. Symptoms of Common Allergies

Hay Fever (Allergic Rhinitis): Sneezing, itchy eyes, runny or stuffy nose, sinus pressure.
Asthma: Shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing, wheezing (often triggered by allergens like dust mites or pollen).
Food Allergies: Hives, swelling, nausea, vomiting, anaphylaxis.
Skin Allergies (e.g., Eczema, Contact Dermatitis): Itchy, red, flaky, or swollen skin.

5. Diagnosis

Skin Prick Test: A small amount of potential allergens are placed on the skin, and the skin is pricked to introduce the allergen into the body. A reaction (like swelling or redness) indicates an allergy.
Blood Test: Measures the level of specific IgE antibodies to determine if the body is reacting to a certain allergen.
Elimination Diets: For food allergies, eliminating and then reintroducing certain foods can help identify the offending allergen.

6. Treatment Options

Avoidance: The most effective way to prevent allergic reactions is to avoid known allergens.
Medications: Over-the-counter antihistamines (like cetirizine or loratadine), decongestants, corticosteroids, and leukotriene inhibitors can help manage symptoms.

Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy): Gradual exposure to allergens in controlled doses can desensitize the immune system over time.
Emergency Treatments: Epinephrine (via an EpiPen) is used in cases of anaphylaxis to quickly reverse severe allergic reactions.

7. Living with Allergies

Managing allergies requires vigilance and understanding of one’s triggers. Lifestyle adjustments, such as using air purifiers, allergy-proof bedding, or dietary changes, may be necessary. Those with severe allergies should always carry emergency medication like an epinephrine auto-injector and inform others about their condition.
By understanding your specific allergies and triggers, you can manage and minimize symptoms, improving your overall quality of life.

Dr Geranmayeh