Allergies

Overview

An allergy is a reaction by the immune system to a typically harmless substance, mistaken as harmful. This reaction can inflame the skin, sinuses, airways, or digestive system. Allergies can range from minor irritation to life-threatening emergencies. Common allergy triggers include airborne allergens, certain foods, insect stings, and medications. If you have a family history of asthma or allergies, you may be more likely to develop an allergy. Allergic reactions can manifest in various symptoms depending on the substance involved, such as sneezing, itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis. To prevent allergic reactions, it's essential to avoid known triggers and maintain a clean environment.

Understanding the disease

Symptoms

The symptoms of allergies can vary depending on the substance involved. They can affect the airways, sinuses and nasal passages, skin, and digestive system. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. Common allergy symptoms include sneezing, itching of the nose, eyes or roof of the mouth, a runny, stuffy nose, watery, red or swollen eyes, tingling in the mouth, swelling of the lips, tongue, face or throat, hives, anaphylaxis, and a large area of swelling at the sting site.

Risk Factors

The risk factors for developing allergies include:

1. Having a family history of asthma or allergies, such as hay fever, hives, or eczema
2. Being a child
3. Having asthma or another allergic condition.

Development

Allergies develop when the immune system mistakes a normally harmless substance for a dangerous invader. The immune system then produces antibodies that remain on the alert for that particular allergen. When exposed to the allergen again, these antibodies can release a number of immune system chemicals, such as histamine, that cause allergy symptoms. Common allergy triggers include airborne allergens (like pollen, animal dander, dust mites, and mold), certain foods, insect stings, and medications. Having a family history of asthma or allergies, being a child, or having asthma or another allergic condition can increase the likelihood of developing an allergy.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Triage

If you or your child has a severe allergic reaction or signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, you should make an appointment to see your healthcare provider. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that requires medical attention. If the allergy attack is life-threatening, seek emergency medical help immediately by calling 911 or your local emergency number. If you carry an epinephrine auto-injector, administer it right away, even if symptoms improve after the injection. It's important to follow up with an emergency room visit to ensure symptoms don't recur. If you or your child has had a severe allergy attack or any signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis in the past, it's best to consult a healthcare provider who specializes in allergies and immunology for proper diagnosis and management.

Diagnosis

To diagnose allergies, a healthcare provider will generally follow these steps:

1. Ask detailed questions about your symptoms and medical history.
2. Perform a physical exam to check for signs of an allergy, such as skin reactions or breathing difficulties.
3. Request you keep a detailed diary of your symptoms and possible triggers, which may include foods, pollen counts, or exposure to pets or other allergens.
4. Based on the information gathered, the healthcare provider may recommend one or both of the following tests: a. Skin test: Small amounts of common allergens are pricked onto your skin, and if you're allergic, you'll develop a raised bump (hive). b. Blood test: Measures the amount of allergy-causing antibodies in your bloodstream, known as immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. Remember that these allergy tests can sometimes produce false positive or false negative results, so it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.

Management and Treatment

Complications

Potential complications of allergies include anaphylaxis, asthma, sinusitis, and infections of the ears or lungs, particularly if the person has hay fever or asthma. These complications can vary in severity and may require medical attention.

Home Remedies

Home remedies for allergies may help relieve symptoms, but it's important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action. Some general home remedies include:

1. Limit exposure to allergens: Stay indoors when pollen or pollution levels are high, use air filters, and keep windows and doors closed.
2. Nasal irrigation: Use a saline nasal spray or a neti pot to flush out allergens from your nasal passages.
3. Diet changes: Eliminate known trigger foods from your diet and consider incorporating antihistamine-rich foods like citrus fruits, berries, and spicy herbs.
4. Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to help thin mucus and promote sinus drainage.
5. Over-the-counter medications: Consider taking over-the-counter antihistamines or decongestants, but follow the instructions carefully and consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication.
6. Natural remedies: Try using natural remedies like chamomile tea, local honey, or a warm compress to alleviate symptoms. Remember, home remedies may not provide the same level of relief as prescription medications or other medical treatments. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment

Treating allergies involves a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, alternative therapies. Here's how to treat allergies:

1. Medications: Depending on the allergy, your provider might recommend nonprescription or prescription medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays, or eyedrops. In some cases, they may suggest immunotherapy, which involves a series of injections or sublingual tablets to help build tolerance to allergens over time. For severe allergies, you may need to carry an emergency epinephrine shot.
2. Lifestyle and home remedies: Adopting certain lifestyle changes can help alleviate allergy symptoms. For example, you can use saline nasal irrigation to flush out thickened mucus and irritants from your nose, reduce exposure to allergens by frequently washing bedding and stuffed toys, maintaining low humidity, and using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Remove household items that collect dust, fix leaks, and reduce moisture in damp areas to minimize mold growth.
3. Alternative medicine: Clinical practice guidelines suggest that acupuncture may benefit some people with allergic rhinitis. Consult your healthcare provider before trying any alternative therapies. To prepare for an appointment with your healthcare provider, make a list of your symptoms, your family's history of allergies and asthma, and all medications, vitamins, and supplements you take. Avoid your allergy triggers, and carry self-administered epinephrine in case of an anaphylactic attack. Remember to always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice on treating your allergies.

Preparing for medical consultation

To prepare for an allergy appointment, you can take the following steps:

1. Make a list of your symptoms: Include any symptoms you are experiencing, even if they seem unrelated to allergies. Be prepared to share when each symptom began and any changes you've noticed.
2. Gather key personal information: Consider any recent illnesses, major stresses, or life changes that could be contributing to your symptoms. Also, be sure to include your family medical history, especially any allergies or related conditions.
3. List all medications and supplements: Create a list of all prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements you are currently taking, including doses.
4. Prepare questions for your provider: Write down any questions you have regarding your symptoms, possible causes, allergy tests, treatments, and managing other health conditions.
5. Keep a food diary (if applicable): If you suspect certain foods may be triggering your symptoms, keep a food diary to track your consumption and note any correlations.
6. Be aware of pre-appointment restrictions: Ask your healthcare provider if there are any pre-appointment restrictions or recommendations, such as fasting before specific tests or avoiding certain medications.
7. Bring your list and any relevant documents to the appointment: Ensure you bring your prepared list, as well as any medical records, test results, or other relevant documents to share with your provider during the appointment. Remember to be honest and open with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns. This will help them provide the best possible care and recommendations for your specific situation.