© jfl1066 Flickr allergies
© jfl1066 (Flickr)
All About Allergies
People can be affected by different types of allergy such as a food allergy, seasonal allergy (pollen), and year round allergy (dust). The symptoms are similar to that of a cold such as itchy eyes, runny nose, irritated skin, and sneezing.
Rashes, hives, and swelling may develop. To diagnose the condition, allergy testing is performed through blood and skin test to properly identify the specific antigen.
The causes of allergies are numerous but reactions occur as a result of inhaling harmful substances in the air, consuming allergy food, and taking drugs.
Examples of allergens are dust mites, pollen, mildew, grasses, food (seafood, nuts), and antibiotics (penicillin).
The severity of allergic reactions can be mild or severe. They are only life-threatening if the individual’s breathing is badly affected.
On the other hand, asthma is a respiratory condition characterized by the abnormal constriction of airways in the lungs making breathing difficult. Suspicion of asthma is confirmed on the basis of symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Asthma is also triggered by allergies to substances such as hay, pollen, dust, grasses, feathers, and animal dander. There are certain food allergens that cause asthma attacks but these incidents are few. For instance, shellfish allergy can trigger asthma.
Treatment and Relief Measures
In treating allergies, knowing the correct allergen is a crucial factor in determining the effectiveness of the cure. However, most allergies are treated with antihistamines designed to relieve the symptoms. Other drugs used are cromolyn and corticosteroids. Avoidance of the allergens is an effective preventive method as well allergen immunotherapy.
Asthma, on the other hand, cannot be cured nor prevented. However, the frequency of attacks can be reduced by avoiding the triggers. As precautionary measures, asthmatic people should stay indoors when it is windy and there is a high pollen count, wash skin properly including clothing that came in contact with the allergens.
Following an asthma therapy consists of prescribing anti-inflammatory drugs and bronchodilators as well as the use of inhalers and handheld peak meters to gauge air flow of the patient. If severe allergy and asthma attacks occur, immediate medical assistance should be sought.
