An allergy occurs when the body overreacts to an allergen, often known as a ‘trigger’. Allergens are harmless to most individuals, but in some cases they can cause mild to severe symptoms. For instance, Anaphylaxis is the most severe kind of allergic reaction, and if adrenaline (epinephrine) is not administered quickly, it can be fatal. There are efficient therapies available to control or treat allergy symptoms in cases of mild allergies.
The key is to avoid self-diagnosing, since the symptoms and signs of allergies are common to many other medical conditions. Seeing a clinical immunology/allergy specialist is crucial for an expert diagnosis, management, and course of treatment.
Allergens vary widely, but they all have one thing in common: protein. Certain allergens are protein-free at first, but they attach themselves to protein after they enter the body and cause an allergic reaction.
False identity is the cause of allergy. When an allergen enters the body, the immune system misinterprets it as harmful material. The immune system produces antibodies in reaction to combat the allergen. These particular antibodies belong to the immunoglobulin E (IgE) class. IgE antibodies recognise allergens and set off a series of immune system reactions that include the production of substances called mast cell chemicals. The body often employs these chemicals to eliminate microorganisms. Among these, histamine is the most prevalent.
Histamine can produce localised itching and skin reddening in tiny doses. When there is an accumulation of fluid, the surrounding blood vessels dilate and the area swells. It is believed that the immune system's propensity to overreact to an innocuous drug is inherited. This hereditary propensity is called ‘atopy.’ An individual with an allergy is referred to as ‘atopic’ by medical professionals and clinical immunology/allergy specialists; these individuals typically have elevated blood IgE levels.
Let us understand the common type of allergies.
Seasonal Allergies
Many indoor and outdoor allergies are considered seasonal allergies, which are actually types of environmental allergies. The majority of individuals who suffer from seasonal allergies react to multiple allergens. Among the most typical triggers are:
• Dust mites
• Pet dander
• Mold spores
• Pollen from grass, trees, weeds, and flowers, etc.
Numerous symptoms, such as runny nose, sneezing, postnasal drip, and swollen sinuses, can be brought on by these kinds of allergies. Seasonal allergies can cause symptoms such as burning, swollen eyelids, itchy, red or watery eyes, or a gritty or sand-filled feeling in the eyes.
Contact Allergies
Contact allergies are a specific kind of skin allergy. When anything comes into contact with your skin and causes histamine to be released, you have a skin allergy. Usually, the reaction appears as a skin rash, eczema, inflammation of the skin, or hives. Contact allergies to latex, dust, dander, and poisonous plants are among the most prevalent types.
Allergies To Drugs
A drug allergy is an immunological reaction to medication in your body. This reaction occurs as a result of your body’s immune system, misinterpreting a medication element as a threat to your health. If you have an allergy to one or more of the drug's constituents, you may experience side effects regardless of the medication's form (liquid, oral). Among the most popular drugs that trigger allergies are:
• Penicillin and similar antibiotics
• Medications containing iodine
• Seizure medications
• Insulin
• Sulfonamide medications
Drug allergies typically appear as skin conditions, including rashes, hives, or itching. They may, however, also result in further allergic reactions, such as GI problems, oedema, or asthma.
Allergies To Insects
A few of the most prevalent insect allergens are cockroaches, wasp/bee stings, and ant bites. Although not the most prevalent kinds of allergies, these are the ones that frequently result in anaphylaxis. A severe, perhaps fatal allergic reaction to a chemical is called anaphylaxis. An anaphylactic reaction causes a rush of histamines that sends your body into rapid shock. Symptoms include:
• Breathing difficulties due to airway swelling
• Rapid feeble pulse
• Skin rash
• Digestive symptoms
This reaction calls for immediate medical attention. If you are without an epinephrine pen on you, visit the nearest hospital or urgent care facility without any delay.
Allergies To Food
An immunological response to a particular meal or certain foods is considered a food allergy. Food allergies can be caused by:
• Eggs
• Milk
• Fish
• Shellfish
• Tree nuts
• Peanuts
• Soy
• Wheat
The most frequent food allergies in preteen children are milk, eggs, and peanuts; in adults, the most common food allergy is shellfish.