What are allergies?

What are allergies?

An allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a substance that is harmless for most people. But in an allergic person, the immune system treats the substance (called an allergen) as an invader and reacts inappropriately, causing symptoms that can range from mild discomfort to problems that may endanger the life of the person.

The immune system of an allergic person, in an attempt to protect the body against what it perceives as a threat, it produces antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE) against the allergen. In turn, these antibodies cause cells called mast cells to release certain chemicals, including histamine, into the bloodstream to defend against the allergen “invader.”

It is the release of these chemicals that cause allergic reactions, which affect the eyes, nose, throat, lungs, skin and gastrointestinal tract. The subsequent exposure to the allergen (substances such as pollen or nuts) will trigger the same allergic reaction. This means that whenever the person is exposed or that allergen, is eating a particular food or by touching or breathing in a substance, submit an allergic reaction.

Symptoms of allergy to airborne allergens.

The airborne allergens can cause a condition known as allergic rhinitis, which affects between 15 and 20% of Americans and is common in other countries. It usually develops in around ten years old and reaches its greatest virulence between 20 and 25 years, their symptoms usually disappear between 40 and 60 years. Symptoms include:

* Sneezing.
* Itchy nose and throat.
* Nasal congestion.
* Cough.

These symptoms are often accompanied by itching, tearing and redness of the eyes, called allergic conjunctivitis. (When forming dark circles around the eyes bloodshot, are known as “allergic dark circles). People who react to airborne allergens usually have allergic rhinitis and allergic conjunctivitis. If a person has these symptoms and wheezing and shortness of breath, the allergy may have evolved and have finished becoming asthma of allergic origin.

How are allergies?

Specific treatment for allergies will be determined by your physician based on:

* Your general health status and medical history.
* Extent of allergic disease.
* Your tolerance for specific medications.
* Your expectations for the course of allergic disease.
* Your opinion or preference.

The two most effective ways to treat allergies include allergen avoidance, immunotherapy and medication.
What is avoidance?

Avoidance is staying away from a substance that causes an allergic reaction.

Suggestions for avoiding (some) allergens:

* Remain indoors:
* When the pollen count is high.
* In the windy days.
* Make your home a dust-proof, especially in the bedroom.
* Delete when possible: wall to wall carpeting, Venetian blinds, blankets or pillows filled with feathers, and closets full of clothes.
* Wash bedding, curtains and clothing in hot water often to remove dust mites.
* Keep bedding in dust covers when possible.
* Use air conditioning instead of opening windows.
* Consider putting a dehumidifier in damp areas of the house, but remember to clean it often.
* Use masks when working in the garden.