An allergy is an overreaction of the body’s immune system to substances that are typically harmless to most people. These substances, known as allergens, can trigger an immune response in certain individuals, leading to a range of symptoms varying from mild to severe. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, certain foods (such as nuts, shellfish, eggs, and dairy), insect venom, and medications.
The mechanism of development of an allergic reaction
The development of an allergic reaction involves a complex interplay between the immune system and allergens. Here’s a simplified overview of the process:
- Sensitization. The first exposure to an allergen typically does not cause an allergic reaction. Instead, it triggers the immune system to produce specific antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE) against that particular allergen. This process is known as sensitization.
- Activation. Upon subsequent exposure to the same allergen, the allergen binds to the IgE antibodies attached to mast cells and basophils, which are types of immune cells found in tissues throughout the body.
- Release of Chemicals. This binding triggers the mast cells and basophils to release a variety of chemicals, the most notable of which is histamine. Histamine and other chemicals cause inflammation, swelling, and the symptoms associated with allergies.
- Symptoms. The symptoms of an allergic reaction can vary widely depending on the allergen and the individual’s sensitivity. They may include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itching, watery eyes, hives, swelling, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
- Resolution. Once the allergen is no longer present or the body’s immune system successfully neutralizes it, the allergic reaction typically subsides. However, in chronic allergic conditions, such as hay fever or asthma, symptoms may persist or recur with continued exposure to allergens.
It’s important to note that not everyone exposed to an allergen will develop allergies. Genetic factors, environmental factors, and the timing and route of exposure can all influence whether someone becomes sensitized to an allergen and develops allergic reactions.
What are the causes of allergies?
The main cause of allergies is sensitivity to plant pollen, which gets on the mucous membranes and causes irritation. Other causes of allergies:
- genetic predisposition;
- dry, windy weather, increasing the concentration of pollen in the air;
- frequent colds and ENT diseases, which make mucous membranes more susceptible to allergens;
- living in an environmentally unfavorable region;
- poor nutrition.
Allergies in infants can occur due to early contact with irritants (dust, chemical breakdown products), transfer to artificial infant formula, or lack of nutrients in the body. Perennial allergies can occur all year round. Pathology can occur throughout the year due to constantly present irritants (pet hair, dust mites).
What symptoms indicate an allergy?
Acute allergies can occur throughout the year, and also worsen in spring, summer and early autumn. With allergies, patients experience itching on the inside of their ears and palate. Symptoms of an allergic reaction:
- nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose;
- itching in the nose, throat and eyes;
- redness and tearing of the eyes;
- headaches, pressure in the nasal passages;
- accumulation of mucus in the nose and throat;
- fatigue and weakness;
- shortness of breath, cough and difficulty breathing.
Patients may experience a sore throat due to mucus running down the back wall. People also have itchy eyes due to decreased sense of smell and sneezing. One of the possible symptoms is a temperature of 37–37.5 C° with hay fever. Yellow snot in allergies can occur as a result of microbes entering the mucus during prolonged contact with the allergen.
What tests will show an allergy?
Allergy tests are laboratory tests that can be used to determine the source of the disease (allergen). The following allergy tests are available:
- skin tests (prick tests for allergies). They are carried out by introducing a small amount of a potential allergen into the skin. The appearance of redness and itching of the skin indicates the presence of an allergic reaction;
- determination of the level of immunoglobulin IgE in blood serum (ALEX allergy test). It is carried out by drawing blood from a vein;
- elimination tests. Diagnosis of food allergies by completely eliminating suspected allergens from the diet in order to assess how the elimination of certain foods affects the symptoms of the disease;
- provocative tests. A potential allergen is introduced into the body by inhalation or intravenously, and the body’s response is then assessed.
Diagnosis of allergies and the choice of testing method should be carried out by an allergist. If necessary, several allergy tests are prescribed at once to accurately determine the cause of the disease.
How to get rid of allergies forever?
It is impossible to get rid of allergies forever, since they are chronic diseases and can reoccur upon contact with an allergen. But with proper treatment, you can achieve a reduction in allergy attacks and stable remission of the disease. At the appointment, the allergist will conduct an examination, listen to complaints, collect anamnesis and prescribe the necessary tests.
Allergy treatment may include taking antihistamines, hormonal and anti-inflammatory drugs. Corticosteroids and vasoconstrictors are used to treat respiratory allergies. It is also recommended to rinse your nose if you have allergies to make breathing easier. If your eyes are swollen due to allergies, your doctor will prescribe eye drops to help reduce the swelling. You can relieve skin itching due to allergies using anti-inflammatory ointments and creams. Only an allergist should select a remedy for skin allergies after an examination.
Ways to prevent allergies
The main way to prevent allergies is to avoid contact with substances that provoke the disease. Other ways to prevent allergies:
- dieting (excluding allergenic foods from the diet);
- maintaining cleanliness in the house;
- ventilation of the room;
- using air humidifiers to maintain a healthy indoor climate;
- rinsing the nose with saline solution;
- moderate physical activity;
- rejection of bad habits.
It is recommended to spend more time outdoors. Regular walks help strengthen the immune system and reduce attacks of allergic reactions. It is also necessary to undergo a preventive examination with an allergist at least once a year.