Understanding Allergies

Studies show that cases of allergy have been rising in the last twenty years, with the proportion of people with allergic rhinitis rising to triple what it was 25 years ago. This worldwide increase can be attributed to environmental factors and to behavioral changes, varying from country to country, and even from town to town.

Our immune system is the body’s defense against foreign substances. These substances, called antigens, provoke a reaction from the immune system, which produces antibodies to neutralize the antigens. This immune reaction is totally beneficial when it comes to fighting germs. However, in the case of allergies, our bodies over-react to normally inoffensive substances known as allergens.

This over-reaction or hypersensitivity triggers a series of reactions in an organ or in a body tissue which becomes inflamed and releases histamine, which causes the clinical signs of allergy.

A person who is allergic to something is biologically sensitized to these allergens and presents its symptoms, either permanently or intermittently.

There are two conditions for allergic symptoms to appear: (1) the person must be genetically predisposed, and (2) exposed to one or more allergies.

Sneezing, runny or blocked nose, itching eyes or skin are the most common allergic symptoms. However, all of these symptoms could occur even without allergies. So how can we tell if we are really allergic to something?

Do I Have Allergies?

Sneezing

Sneezing is a natural way for our bodies to get rid of an irritating substance. When there is an allergy, the reaction becomes exaggerated. Endless sneezing fits could occur, with no apparent reason.

Runny Nose

When a runny nose is caused by allergies, a clear watery liquid is produced, whereas a head cold produces thick yellow secretions.

Blocked Nose

Allergies make the mucosa lining in the nose swell, causing nasal congestion. Natural secretions stop flowing normally or are blocked completely. Blowing the nose produces nothing, and often seems to make the congestion worse.

Itching Skin

Allergies can also cause severe skin itching that can last for a few days. In children, this facial itching can be so serious that it can cause great distress and difficulty in sleeping.

Itching Eyes

Allergies can even cause itchiness to the eyes, usually lasting for several days, or even weeks. It is usually accompanied by redness and swelling of the eyelids.

How Do I Deal with Allergies?

Medical Treatments

Many different drugs exist to treat allergies. Some can be used for all forms of allergy, whereas others are specific for certain symptoms, for example, asthma. Consult a doctor before taking any medication.

Specific Desensitization

Desensitization involves exposing the patient to increasing quantities of the allergen to build their tolerance. This causes their immune system to become used to the allergen. This treatment can take 3 to 5 years, but is effective in 60-70% of respiratory allergies.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines counter the effects of histamine, the substance which causes allergic reactions in the body. Often referred to as anti-allergic, they are mainly used for allergic rhinitis and skin allergies.

They are mainly used for allergic rhinitis and skin allergies. They are available in tablets, sprays, or creams.

There are two classes of antihistamines: the older 1st generation antihistamine, which causes serious daytime drowsiness, and the 2nd generation antihistamine which doesn’t have this particular side-effect.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are used in serious cases. They decrease allergy-induced inflammation. They can be taken in tablet, injection or spray form and are mainly used for chronic severe asthma.

Bronchodilators

Bronchodilators dilate the walls of the bronchi to ease breathing. They can be given as tablets or injections, or used locally as an inhaler.

The Dangers of Allergies

• Allergies are unpleasant, and can seriously affect the quality of daily life. It can make the sufferer miss work or school.

• In certain cases, allergies can be very serious, and even life threatening.

• Three types of allergy symptoms are considered serious: edema (internal swelling) or the larynx, asthma and anaphylactic shock.

Edema (internal swelling) of the larynx

• Edema of the larynx is swelling which occurs in the larynx, just above the trachea.

• This occurs when the larynx swells so much that the air can no longer get into the lungs, suffocating the patient. It is a medical emergency that needs immediate treatment.

Asthma

• In allergic asthma, hyper-reactivity to the allergen is in the bronchial tubes, which undergo spasms, edema or hyper-secretion of mucous. When these three happen, the bronchi tighten, and breathing becomes difficult. During an asthma attack, breathing is difficult and wheezy. There is a persistent cough and the patient is anxious and has difficulty sleeping.

Anaphylactic Shock

• The most serious allergic reaction, anaphylactic shock appears within minutes, and can be life threatening. This happens when the body suddenly releases substances, particularly histamine, during an allergic reaction.

• There is a sudden severe fall in blood pressure, edema of the larynx and loss of consciousness. Emergency medical treatment is necessary.