The concept of allergy was introduced by Viennese pediatrician, Clement Von Pirquet in 1906. The word allergy means “altered reaction” derived from Greek words “allos” meaning “other” and “ergon” meaning “work”. Allergy is a term used to describe a condition in which the immune system over-reacts to harmless substances, resulting in symptoms such as sneezing, itching, skin rash, teary eyes, etc. These symptoms can lead to irritability, disability, and, in severe cases, even death.
Allergy symptoms
Allergy is body’s hypersensitivity to certain substances that are harmless to others. The substances that cause this hypersensitivity are called allergens. When a person comes in contact with these allergens, the immune system becomes sensitized to the allergens and mistakes them as foreign substances invading the body to cause harm and produces antibodies such as IgE which are specific to the allergens. These IgE antibodies attach themselves to the mast cells; the second time the person is exposed to the same allergen, the IgE sensitized mast cells release powerful chemicals making the person suffer from wheezing, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes and itching. The common allergic reactions include migraine, hay fever, asthma, drowsiness, allergic rhinitis and sometimes digestive disturbances, conjunctivitis, urticaria, eczema, recurrent sinusitis and ear infections. Some serious cases might lead to anaphylaxis characterized by increased heart rate, muscle cramps, glandular secretions, etc. If the anaphylaxis is not treated immediately, the person may become unconscious in few minutes. This can be fatal leading to death.
Causes of allergy
- Allergens carried through air: Dust mites, pollen, molds, and pet dander.
- Certain foods: Soy beans, peanuts, wheat, eggs, seafood, shellfish and milk.
- Insect stings: Such as stings by bees, wasps, and various other insects.
- Medications: Particularly penicillin based antibiotics.
- Chemicals: Some household chemicals such as detergents, cosmetics, dyes and pesticides.
- Latex and other substances: Kids who are allergic to latex may be allergic to certain fruits such as kiwi fruit, chest nuts and bananas.
Risk factors for allergy
Risk factors do not necessarily lead to the onset of the disease, but they do increase the likelihood of developing allergies. A deficiency in the body’s defense mechanism is a significant risk factor. When the body’s defense mechanism is weak, e.g., after a viral infection or during pregnancy, it can lead to the emergence of allergies. If any of your family members has a history of allergies such as asthma, hay fever, or eczema, then there are chances of you developing these allergies too. Additionally, children are more likely to develop an allergy than adults. Furthermore, if you are already suffering from any kind of allergy then the likelihood of developing another allergy is high.
Treatment for allergy
Prevent allergies by avoiding the sources of allergens. Avoid contact with pollens, whether indoors or outdoors. Clean all damp and wet areas to remove molds. Avoid pet dander and clean the bedding, pillows, curtains, upholstery, soft toys, and carpets to remove dust and dust mites.
Medications lower the immune system’s response and reduce symptoms. These may include oral medication, nasal spray, eye drops or corticosteroid medication. Purified extracts of allergens in the form of injections may be prescribed by your doctor if your allergy symptoms are not relieved by other treatments. These are administered over a period of a few months to years. The purpose of these injections is to allow the immune system to become accustomed to the allergens without overreacting.
Epinephrine is a medication administered during severe and sudden allergic reactions called anaphylaxis. Epinephrine is used to treat critical conditions caused by food allergies, insect bites and drug allergies. If you have a history of anaphylaxis, then you should carry auto-injectable epinephrine at all times.
Prevention of allergies
Allergies are preventable if you know what’s causing them. Stay away from allergens and triggers. When you’re trying to figure out what causes your allergic reaction, keep a record of all the activities you’re doing. This way, you and your doctor can pinpoint the cause of your allergic reaction and the symptoms you’re experiencing. If you’ve ever had a severe allergic reaction, make sure you always have a medical alert tag on your wrist or on your neck to alert others in the event of an emergency or if you become unresponsive.
Allergy and Cold
It is important to distinguish between a cold and an allergy, as the symptoms of both may be similar. Cold and allergy may share similar symptoms, such as coughing, runny nose, stuffy nose, sneezing, and the use of similar medications for treatment, as well as the occurrence of similar complications, including sinus infections or asthma. In some cases, an allergy may present with specific symptoms, such as a cough, but no aches or pains, no fever, and sore throat. The ways to prevent an allergy differ significantly from those of a cold, and the effects of an allergy may last for weeks or even months. On the other hand, a cold will not exceed 14 days.
Care better, live better
The right treatment at the right time can make the difference between suffering from an allergy or feeling better. When you think you may have an allergy, see your doctor or allergist for a precise diagnosis and treatment plan. If you know you are already allergic to certain triggers, take all necessary steps to avoid them. Always listen to your doctor’s advice.
