Allergies–
What is an Allergy?
• An allergy is the immune system’s abnormal reaction to foreign substances that do not normally cause reactions in other people. • Substances that cause these reactions are known as allergens.
Why Should we Address Allergies?
Allergic diseases constitute a significant cause of morbidity globally.Allergies and related diseases affect at least 30% of the population and nearly 80% of families. Medical services providing expert allergy care are lacking in many countries. Allergic diseases are often underdiagnosed and undertreated.
Examples of Allergens;
Airborne allergens,e.g. pollen, animal dander, dust mites and moldCertain foods,e.g. peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish, eggs and milk Insect stings,e.g. from a bee or waspMedications,especially penicillin or penicillin-based antibioticsLatex, can cause allergic skin reactionsPhysical conditions e.g. extreme temperatures.
How Does an Allergy Occur?
• A person comes into contact with an allergy.
• The body recognizes the allergen as a foreign substance.
• An immune response is triggered by the production of an antibody called IgE.
• The antibody attaches to the allergen and stimulates further immune reactions, leading to the production of a chemical called histamine.
• Histamine and other chemicals get released into the blood and cause the symptoms.
Symptoms of Allergic Reactions;
• The symptoms differ based on the type of allergen responsible
• The symptoms may be mild or life-threateningHay fever, also called allergic rhinitis, can cause:
• Sneezing
• Itching of the nose, eyes or roof of the mouth
• Runny, stuffy nose
• Watery, red or swollen eyes (conjunctivitis) A food allergy can cause:• Tingling in the mouth
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, face or throat
• Hives
• Anaphylaxis
A food allergy can cause:
• Tingling in the mouth
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, face or throat
• Hives
• Anaphylaxis
Symptoms;
An insect sting allergy can cause:
• A large area of swelling (edema) at the sting site• Itching or hives all over the body• Cough, chest tightness, wheezing or shortness of breath• Anaphylaxis
A drug allergy can cause:• Hives• Itchy skin• Rash• Facial swelling• Wheezing• Anaphylaxis
Atopic dermatitisIs an allergic skin condition also called eczema, can cause skin to:• Itch• Redden• Flake or peel
Risk Factors;
You might be more likely to develop an allergy if you:• Having a family history of asthma or allergies, such as hay fever, hives or eczema• Are a child• Have asthma or another allergic condition
Treatment;
Antihistamines-Decongestants
-Nasal steroids
-Asthma medicines
-Immunotherapy-a series of injections of purified allergen extracts, usually given over a period of a few years.
-Emergency epinephrine- for severe allergic reactions, given as a shot.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
Some allergy symptoms improve with home treatment.• Sinus congestion and hay fever symptoms- Saline nasal irrigation — rinsing out the sinuses with a salt and water solution. • Household airborne allergy symptoms- Reduce exposure to dust mites or pet dander by frequently washing bedding and stuffed toys in hot water, maintaining low humidity, regularly using a vacuum with a fine filter.• Mold allergy symptoms- Reduce moisture in damp areas e.g. bath and kitchen, by using ventilation fans and dehumidifiers. • Fix leaks inside and outside your home.
Prevention;
• Avoid known triggers.• Keep a diary to: o To identify what causes or worsens allergic symptomso Track your activities o Track what you eat o When symptoms occur o What seems to help. • Wear a medical alert bracelet.• For people with severe allergic reactions• A medical alert bracelet (or necklace) lets others know that you have a serious allergy in case you have a reaction and you’re unable to communicate.
SUMMARY;
Allergies occur when the body’s immune system reacts abnormally to otherwise harmless substances known as allergens
• Allergic reactions can be mild or life-threatening
• Allergies increase the risk of developing other diseases such as rhinitis, sinusitis, and asthma
• Allergens can be found everywhere within our surroundings
• There is a need to create public awareness about allergic reactions and allergens
• Knowing one’s triggers is the first step towards avoiding such reactions
• Avoiding allergens helps to prevent allergic reactions
• Medical attention may be needed to treat allergic reactions to prevent life-threatening complications.
Dr. Keyna OmenukorKrystal Family ClinicMesquite, Texas
By Dr. Keyna
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