Detailed statistical research shows that, according to sex and age, 29.9% of women are most likely to have seasonal allergies as compared to men, who form 21.1%. Also, about one-quarter, 24.7%, of adults aged 18-44, 27.9% of adults aged 45-64, 26.4% of adults aged 65-74, and 21.7% of adults aged 75 and over were likely to have seasonal allergies in 2021. Thus, this article is going to talk about allergies and how controlling them can improve our lives. We only have one life, and it is important to live it well.
What Are Allergies?
Allergies are reactions and responses the immune system of a person gives to substances that are generally not harmful to most people. Just like every chemical reaction, there is a reactant and a product. In simple terms, something must happen for something to happen. Thus, the substances that cause the allergies to act up are called allergens. Allergens can include a variety of environmental, chemical, or food triggers. When a person with allergies comes into contact with these allergens, the body mistakes these allergens as threats and reacts to them, producing chemicals like histamine, resulting in symptoms that range from mild to severe.
Some common types of allergies are;
1. Environmental allergies: examples: mold, pollen, dust.
2. Food: examples: seafood, dairy, nuts.
3. Skin allergies: examples: eczema, contact dermatitis.
4. Drug allergies: examples: aspirin, antibiotics.
5. Insect allergies: examples; bee stings, wasp stings.
Causes And Triggers Of Allergies
Some major known causes of allergies are;
1. Genetic and environmental causes
2. Specific triggers
Genetic And Environmental Causes
Though environmental factors play a significant role in triggering allergic reactions, genetics is also a very critical determinant of whether a person can easily be susceptible to allergies or not.
Ways Genetics Influence Allergies
1. Family History: If one or both parents have allergies, then the tendency of their offspring to have allergies is high. It becomes serious when both parents have the same allergies. In such cases, the children are bound to have allergies.
2. Atopy, also known as atopic predisposition, is the tendency of a person to develop allergic diseases, and this is caused by the increased production of IgE antibodies, which play a very essential role in allergic reactions.
3. Epigenetics: Exposure to environmental factors like pollution and diet can alter the genetic makeup of a person and make them susceptible to allergies, and these traits stand the chance of being passed down to future generations, increasing the rate of genetic predispositions.
How Do Environmental Factors And Genetic Predispositions Work Together
Although genetic factors are a very crucial part of allergic reactions, they go together with environmental factors. Example:
1. A person who is genetically predisposed, when exposed to a dusty environment or specific allergens, stands the chance of developing asthma.
Therefore, we can safely say that genetics determines the susceptibility to the environmental factors that trigger the allergies.
How To Diagnose Allergies
Let's talk about some steps to diagnose allergies.
1. Medical History
- Symptom Review:
- A detailed discussion of symptoms, including their type, frequency, severity, and timing.
- Patterns of symptoms related to seasons, foods, or exposure to certain substances.
- Family History:
A family history of allergies, asthma, or eczema may indicate a genetic predisposition.
- Lifestyle and Environment:
- Information about work or home environments, diet, pets, and travel to identify possible allergen sources.
2. Physical Examination
- A thorough examination to check for signs of allergic reactions, such as
- Nasal congestion or swelling.
- Skin rashes, hives, or eczema.
- Red, watery, or itchy eyes.
- Wheezing or breathing difficulties.
3. Allergy Tests
Specific tests help confirm the diagnosis and pinpoint the allergens responsible.
Skin Tests
1. Skin Prick Test (SPT):
- A small amount of allergen is applied to the skin using a tiny prick or scratch.
- If an allergy exists, a raised bump (wheal) appears within 15-20 minutes.
- Used for common allergens like pollen, mold, pet dander, or certain foods.
2. Intradermal Test:
- A small amount of allergen is injected just under the skin.
- Typically used when the skin prick test is inconclusive.
Blood Tests
1. Specific IgE Blood Test (e.g., RAST or ImmunoCAP):
- Measures the levels of IgE antibodies in the blood in response to specific allergens.
- Ideal for people who cannot undergo skin tests (e.g., those with skin conditions or on antihistamines).
2. Total IgE Test:
- Measures overall IgE levels but is less specific for diagnosing particular allergies.
Patch Testing (For Skin Allergies)
- Used to diagnose delayed allergic reactions, such as contact dermatitis.
- Allergens are applied to patches, which are then placed on the skin for 48 hours.
Elimination Diets (For Food Allergies)
- Suspected foods are removed from the diet for a specific period and then gradually reintroduced.
- Helps identify food triggers, but must be done under medical supervision.
Challenge Tests (Supervised Testing)
- The patient is exposed to a suspected allergen in increasing amounts under medical supervision.
- Often used to confirm food or medication allergies.
When to See a Doctor
- Persistent symptoms like sneezing, hives, or difficulty breathing.
- Severe reactions such as swelling, anaphylaxis, or unexplained asthma symptoms.
Benefits of Proper Diagnosis
Having a proper and effective diagnosis is very important. Below are some reasons why:
- Identifies specific allergens to avoid.
- Enables targeted treatment, such as immunotherapy or medication.
- Reduces the risk of severe allergic reactions.
It is very important to equip yourself with strategies that will not only help you manage your allergies but also get rid of them, hopefully. Some safe solutions and management practices are going to be discussed below.
- Avoid known allergens.
- Use antihistamines, nasal sprays, or decongestants for relief.
- Seek immunotherapy (allergy shots) for long-term management.
- Always carry an epinephrine injector (EpiPen) for severe allergies.
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