An allergy is a reaction/reaction of the body to certain substances or allergens, such as certain foods, pollen, bee venom, dust, or even pet hair. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can vary and range from mild to severe, usually including itching, rashes, sneezing, coughing, and swelling.

 

ALLERGY: What is an allergy? | Symptoms | Types of allergies | Diagnostics | HEALING | Conventional treatment | Alternative | Most common allergies | Prevention | Questions and Answers | Sources/references

Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to foreign substances - allergens. Your immune system produces substances known as antibodies. When you have allergies, your immune system makes antibodies that identify a particular allergen as harmful, even though it may not be. When you come into contact with an allergen, the reaction of your immune system can inflame the skin and worsen the condition of the sinuses, respiratory tract, or digestive system.

The severity of the condition of allergies varies from person to person. It can range from minor irritation to anaphylaxis - a potentially life-threatening emergency resulting from a severe hypersensitivity reaction.

Video content: What are allergies?

Although most allergies cannot be cured, treatment can help relieve allergy symptoms.

When a person who is allergic to a specific allergen comes into contact with it, an allergic reaction occurs:

• When an allergen (such as pollen) enters the body, it triggers an antibody response.
• Antibodies begin to form - especially IgE.
• When pollen comes into contact with antibodies, these bind to the surface of the allergen.
• Present mast cells immediately react to the presence of an allergen by releasing histamine.
• When the release of histamine results from an allergen, the resulting inflammation (redness and swelling) is irritating and unpleasant.

Similar reactions can occur in the presence of certain chemicals and the presence of food additives.

Common allergy symptoms

Allergy symptoms vary from person to person and vary from allergy to allergy.

Seasonal or environmental allergy symptoms include:

• nasal discharge, usually with clear or pale white mucus
• sneezing
• cough
• red, watery eyes
• itching around the nose, mouth, or eyes

If these symptoms are not treated, they can lead to problems such as stuffy nose, headaches, sore throat, and other problems, so treatment is of utmost importance.

Video content: 7 signs of an allergy and not a cold.

Allergy symptoms can also be severe and life-threatening and lead to anaphylaxis.

Symptoms that may require you to seek emergency care include:

• Skin: itching, redness, swelling, and hives.

• Mouth: itching, swelling of lips and tongue.

• Stomach: vomiting, diarrhea, cramps.

• Respiratory: shortness of breath, wheezing, cough, chest pain, and tightness.

• Heart: weak pulse, dizziness, fainting.

• Headache, stuffy nose, watery eyes, sweating.

• Confusion, sense of impending loss.

• Loss of consciousness.

TYPES OF ALLERGIES

Allergies are not just a nuisance but a serious health problem.

Video content: 10 different types of allergies.

Allergies can interfere with daily activities and affect the quality of life. They generally fall into two categories:

Environmental allergies:

• pollen
• mold
• domestic animals
• mites
• insect bites
• mice and their secretions

Life-threatening allergies:

Some allergens that exposure can cause severe, even life-threatening allergic reactions (called anaphylaxis).

These allergens are usually:

• food (specific categories)
• insect poisons (wasp, bee, hornet stings)
• latex
• medicines

How are allergy diagnosis and testing carried out?

It is essential to know which allergens cause symptoms.

Picture: the appearance of the method of testing allergies to certain ingredients.

You must consult a certified allergist to obtain a diagnosis and test for allergies.

The allergist will do the following:

• a review of your medical records and your family's medical history
• questions about the frequency and severity of your symptoms
• questions regarding activities that could expose you to allergens
• questions about your home and work environment
• physical examination of the eyes, ears, nose, and lungs

Based on the findings, the allergist can decide whether allergy testing is necessary. Allergy testing may include skin testing and blood tests. You can then discuss the results with your allergist and decide on an appropriate treatment plan.

HEALING

Conventional treatment

Several allergy treatment options are currently available, including:

• drug treatment
• treatment with allergen immunotherapy
• treatment with sprays and nasal sprays
• avoidance of allergens

Drugs used to treat allergies include the following groups:

• Antihistamines
• Decongestants
• Corticosteroid nasal spray

Video content: 3 natural ways to treat allergies.

• Leukotriene modifiers
• Mast cell stabilizers
• Anticholinergics

Allergen immunotherapy

Immunotherapy against allergens, also known as injections against allergies, is a procedure that helps to improve or build your tolerance to allergens and, very importantly, to reduce or eliminate symptoms. It works by gradually increasing the amount of allergen in the patient regularly until a maintenance level is reached.

Tolerance to the allergen usually continues after the end of immunotherapy, but the long-term success rate varies from person to person.

Allergy shots and sublingual tablets are types of immunotherapy your allergist may recommend to treat your allergies. See your allergist to determine the best treatment option for you.

Immunotherapy is a treatment in which patients are given small amounts of an allergen to deal with allergic reactions in the long-term effects. It is a procedure carried out under medical supervision and can last several years. This treatment can help reduce the intensity of allergy symptoms and can even prevent severe episodes from occurring.

Alternative treatment of allergies

HOMEOPATHY

Homeopathy is based on the idea that the treatment of this type of allergy can be started with homeopathic medicines made from the allergen itself but in much smaller quantities. Homeopathic medicines are usually made from natural substances mixed with more significant amounts of starch or sugars. A to avoid any unwanted side effects. Homeopathic medicines are usually available in the form of granules, powders, or drops and are available in pharmacies. Homeopathic medicines in the form of granules are mainly marketed in Slovenian pharmacies.

ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture is another method or approach in case of allergic reactions. It is a technique of using skinny needles that are inserted in certain places of the human body.

Acupuncture is based on the prescriptions of old and traditional Chinese medicine. The following symptoms are mostly solved with acupuncture: pain, stress control, osteoarthritis, menstrual cramps, neck pain, tennis elbow, and fibromyalgia.

Image: the symptoms of allergic reactions can be very unpleasant.

It can often have beneficial effects on the symptoms of an allergic reaction, including rashes, sneezing, redness, and itching.

REFLEXOLOGY

Reflexology is a massage technique involving sensitive points on the feet and hands - it is performed to improve the individual's general health. This technique can also be used to treat seasonal allergy problems, as it can help relieve symptoms such as rashes, itching, sneezing, coughing, and swelling. Often the purpose of this technique is to relieve the stress that is burdening you, and in connection with this, all the symptoms related to stress are also reduced. Often the purpose of this technique is to relieve the stress that is burdening you, and in connection with this, all the symptoms related to stress are also reduced.

MOST COMMON ALLERGIES

Many different substances from the environment trigger allergic symptoms.

Common allergens include:

Food allergy

Allergens are mainly the following: cow's milk, chicken eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish.

Video content: more about food allergy.

More about these types of allergens in the video above.

Allergy to pollen

A pollen allergy is an allergy to tiny particles released by trees, grasses, and weeds.

Symptoms of pollen allergies are usually as follows:

• sneezing
• watery or itchy eyes
• cough
• itchy throat
• stuffy nose

Allergies to pollen can occur throughout the year. For example, tree pollen is expected in late winter and early spring, followed by grass pollen in late spring and summer. Then, toward the end of summer, allergies to pollen released by weeds such as ragweed are more common.

Video content: more about pollen allergies and how to treat them.

There are ways to limit exposure to pollen allergens and reduce symptoms, but pollen allergies may require regular use of medication to control symptoms. With the problems above, discussing treatment options with an authorized allergist is necessary in such cases.

Mold allergy

Molds are microscopic organisms called fungi that can be found almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, especially in damp areas. Molds reproduce by spores, which are spread by water, insects, or air and are so small and light that they can even float in the air like pollen. These spores can be inhaled and subsequently cause allergy symptoms.

These symptoms are often the following:

• Congestion of the nose and sinuses
• Sore throat
• Sneezing
• Watery or burning eyes
• Dry cough
• Shortness of breath
• Irritation of the nose, throat, or skin

Mold spores are hazardous for people with asthma and can trigger dangerous asthma attacks. Unfortunately, the exact reason is not known.

Video content: allergy triggers in connection with mold.

Mold allergy testing is performed by a licensed allergist and may include skin and blood tests.

Treatment for mold allergies may include the following.

And medicines:

• Nasal corticosteroids
• Antihistamine
• Decongestants
• Montelukast (Singulair) - treatment of allergies in connection with asthmatic patients.

Mold hides indoors and outdoors, so limiting exposure to mold spores is critical.

Allergy to pets

Allergic reactions to cats, dogs, and other furry animals are usually caused by proteins found on the pet's skin, called "dander," and can also be detected in their saliva and urine.

Allergens from pets can cause unpleasant reactions when inhaled, in the eyes, or contact with the skin. Reactions can occur within a few minutes or several hours after contact with the allergen.

Video content: 15 ways to minimize allergies if you have a pet.

Removing the pet from home is the best way to eliminate a pet allergy. However, pet hair can remain in your home for weeks to months.

Mite allergy

mites are tiny insects that live in mattresses, pillows, and upholstered furniture. They seek moisture, tiny bits of discarded human skin, along with their favorite food. Allergens from the droppings of mites and corpses accumulate in bedding, furniture, and dust, irritating the respiratory tract and eyes upon contact.

Symptoms of dust mite allergy include:

• itchy eyes,
• scratchy throat,
• nasal discharge and
• other allergy symptoms
• Mites are also a potent trigger of asthma.

You can make some changes in your home environment to reduce the number of mites.

Video content: dust mite allergy - symptoms and treatment

Mite allergies can be treated with over-the-counter decongestants, antihistamines, or nasal sprays. Seek the help of a certified allergist to discuss medications and immunotherapy.

Allergy to cockroaches and mice

Cockroaches and mice are primarily nocturnal animals/pests, looking for food and water at night - and leaving behind traces of allergens that cause symptoms on contact or inhalation. Allergens of cockroaches are mainly droppings, saliva, and body parts. Mouse allergens are skin, saliva, and urine.

Video content: more about cockroach allergy.

Allergen levels are usually highest on kitchen cabinets and floors, while bathrooms are secondary surfaces with moisture. Poorly sealed food and waste in kitchens are well-known risk factors. The bedroom is one of the more selected locations for cockroaches, especially in heavily infested homes.

The best way to remove mice from your home is with mouse traps; place them against the walls where the mice often go in search of food. For severe infestations, it may be best to call a professional exterminator. However, minor home improvements can improve your chances of preventing cockroach and mouse infestations.

Allergy to insect venom

For most people, insect bites are a short-term and somewhat painful nuisance. However, for other people who may be allergic to insect venom, their stings can cause a very unpleasant allergic reaction, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms of an allergy to insect venom can range from a mild local reaction to a severe systemic reaction known as anaphylaxis. The main danger is that an allergic reaction can occur in anyone, even people who have not had allergies.

Video content: everything you want to know about insect venom allergies.

Local reactions can be managed at home, mainly with cold compresses, antihistamines, or itching creams. However, if you have a known insect allergy, you should always carry an epinephrine auto-injector.

Latex allergy

is an allergic reaction to the proteins present in the milky sap of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). A latex allergy usually develops after repeated exposure to medical and consumer products containing natural rubber latex.

A latex allergy can pose a severe health risk to people who:

• healthcare workers
• spina bifida patients
• workers with occupational exposure to this type of allergen
• patients with multiple consecutive operations

Latex allergy symptoms may be mild initially but can progress to more severe ones.

Video content: causes, symptoms, and types of latex allergies.

An allergic reaction to latex can also cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction.

Allergy to medicines

can cause hives, dizziness, nausea, breathing problems, stomach cramps, or even cause dangerous swelling of the throat or mouth. Symptoms can appear within a few moments after taking medicine or several hours later.

Medications that most commonly cause a reaction include:

• Antibiotics
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen
• Drugs used in anesthesia
• Insulin (rarely)
• Chemotherapy

Call the allergist's clinic if you experience sudden redness or hives within a few hours of taking medicine.

Video content: drug allergies.

If the symptoms are severe and involve multiple body organs - for example, skin rash, breathing problems, and digestive problems - it may be anaphylaxis. Call 112, and go to the emergency department immediately with the help of a relative.

Not all reactions are drug allergies, so it is essential to be tested by a certified allergist and check for possible life-threatening conditions.

Prevention of allergies

• Avoid potential allergens, especially by choosing hypoallergenic products and avoiding contact with potential allergens as much as possible.
• Use air humidifiers to prevent excessive air dryness and consequently avoid eye irritation.
• Avoid dust and dust particles by cleaning your home regularly and consequently avoid contact with loose hair, dust, and animal hair.
• Use air filters to avoid potential allergens.
• Don't overload your immune system with too much physical activity.

Questions and Answers

What are the seven most common allergy symptoms?

Symptoms of an allergic reaction, which are the most common:

• Itchy, watery eyes.
• Itchy nose.
• Sneezing.
• Snotty nose.
• Discharges.
• Hives (rash with raised red spots).
• Stomach cramps.
• Vomiting^[1].

How to cure an allergy?

• Try the drug without a prescription - according to the doctor's prescription.
• Use an oral antihistamine. Antihistamines can help alleviate sneezing, itching, stuffy or runny nose, and possible watery eyes...
• try corticosteroid nasal sprays - as prescribed by your doctor.
• use decongestants^[2].

How long will the allergic reaction last?

Usually, this reaction does not last more than 24 hours, but the force can be unpleasant. Hives, for example, can appear in different shapes and sizes anywhere on the body.

Allergic rhinitis: Allergic rhinitis, also called hay fever, occurs when your immune system overreacts to an allergen you breathe in (mold, pollen, dog or cat hair)^[3].

Sources and references

Source: Family Health Guide. Conventional and alternative treatment, Dr. Jajo Lajovic, Publishing House Mladinska knjiga

1. What Is an Allergy? - https://aafa.org

2. What Is an Allergy? - https://www.mayoclinic.org

3. What Are the Four Types of Allergic Reactions? - https://www.advancedentdenver.com