Allergic conditions

Allergies are common worldwide, and the number of individuals affected continues to rise each year. It is estimated that around:

• 200-250 million people suffer from food allergies
• 400 million people are affected by allergic rhinitis
• 300 million individuals have asthma triggered by allergens like pollen or dust
• One in ten people globally experiences medication allergies

The key risk factors for developing allergies include:

• Family history: Allergies tend to run in families, so the likelihood of developing an allergy is higher if parents or family members have allergies.
• Occupational exposure: Frequent contact with common allergens, such as dust, in the workplace can lead to allergies due to repeated exposure.

To determine if a person has an allergy to a specific trigger, a doctor will typically take a detailed medical history, focusing on the onset of symptoms, exposure to potential allergens, and the frequency of these reactions. In addition, a thorough physical examination is conducted to assess the symptoms and their possible causes.

A skin prick test is commonly used to identify allergic reactions. During this test, allergens are introduced to the skin via a small prick. If a rash or bumps develop at the test site, it suggests an allergic reaction.

Blood tests to measure Total IgE levels are also useful for diagnosing allergies. Additionally, specific tests may be carried out to assess reactions to certain allergens, such as:

• Medication allergies
• Inhalant allergies
• Food allergies

While allergies themselves cannot be entirely prevented, as they are often inherited, the adverse effects of allergic reactions can be minimized. The most effective way to prevent an allergic reaction is to avoid exposure to the allergen that triggers it.

Understanding and identifying the specific allergen is the first crucial step. Once the trigger is known, taking measures to limit exposure is key. For example:

• Dust Allergy: Wearing a face mask or covering the nose and mouth with a damp cloth while cleaning or dusting in dusty areas can help reduce exposure.
• Food Allergy: Completely avoiding foods that cause an allergic reaction, even in small amounts, is essential.
• Medication Allergy: Always inform your healthcare provider of any past allergic reactions to medications so they can adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
• Mold Allergy: Molds thrive in dark, damp places with little sunlight. Ensuring that living spaces are well-ventilated and receive plenty of natural light can help prevent mold buildup.

Specialist to Consult

If you experience recurring symptoms like sneezing, skin rashes, or chest tightness after being exposed to certain environmental triggers, you may be dealing with allergies and should seek medical advice. You can consult an immunologist or allergist for specialized care. Depending on the symptoms, you may also need to visit:

• A general physician
• A dermatologist
• A respiratory specialist
• An ENT specialist

In cases where allergic reactions lead to anaphylaxis, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention at an emergency department. In such situations, an intensive care specialist may be required for treatment.

The treatment of allergies focuses on relieving symptoms and offering long-term solutions to help desensitize the immune system.

1. Symptom Relief

• Antihistamines: These medications help alleviate symptoms such as itching, swelling, and rashes by blocking histamine, the chemical responsible for allergic reactions. They can be taken orally or applied topically as creams or lotions for skin rashes and itching. Antihistamine eye drops are effective for eye allergies, while nasal sprays can provide quick relief from symptoms like congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose. Some common antihistamines include:

• Levocetirizine
• Chlorpheniramine Maleate
• Loratadine

Nasal Decongestants: These help reduce nasal congestion and make breathing easier. Examples include:

• Xylometazoline
• Oxymetazoline

Corticosteroids: Available in oral, injectable, or topical forms, corticosteroids are used for fast relief from allergy symptoms such as inflammation and rashes. Steroids may also be prescribed as eye drops for eye symptoms. Common corticosteroids include:

• Prednisolone
• Hydrocortisone
• Betamethasone
• Dexamethasone

Bronchodilators: These medications provide relief from acute asthma symptoms and are often used in daily asthma maintenance therapy. Salbutamol is a widely prescribed bronchodilator.

2. Immunotherapy

For severe or persistent allergies that don't respond to conventional treatments, immunotherapy may be an option. This involves gradually exposing the body to the allergen through injections or tablets over a period of years, helping to desensitize the immune system and reduce the risk of severe allergic reactions.

3. Treatment for Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction requiring immediate intervention. If a patient shows signs of an anaphylactic reaction, such as dizziness, difficulty breathing, skin rashes, nausea, or rapid heart rate, they must receive an injection of adrenaline right away. This may need to be repeated as necessary. Emergency medical care and supportive treatment are essential in a hospital setting to manage the condition.

If allergies are left untreated or unnoticed, they can lead to several complications, including:

• Anaphylaxis: In some cases, a severe allergic reaction may trigger anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

• Asthma: Individuals with allergies are at a higher risk of developing asthma, a condition that causes difficulty breathing, wheezing, and coughing. Allergens can also exacerbate existing asthma symptoms.

• Frequent Infections: Allergies can make individuals more susceptible to recurrent infections, such as sinusitis and pharyngitis.

Ayurveda: In Ayurveda, allergies are believed to result from an imbalance in the body's three doshas—vata, pitta, and kapha. The Ayurvedic approach emphasizes avoiding allergens and restoring balance among these doshas. Detoxification methods like Nasya Chikitsa are recommended for alleviating respiratory allergy symptoms. Herbal remedies such as tulsi, ginger, ashwagandha, and triphala are thought to help alleviate mild allergic reactions.

Homeopathy: Homeopathic treatments aim to regulate the immune system and restore balance, helping to reduce hypersensitivity. These remedies offer a permanent solution by improving immune responses without causing common side effects like dizziness or drowsiness. Common homeopathic medicines used for allergic rhinitis include:

• Arsenic Album
• Allium Cepa
• Natrum Mur
• Sabadilla
• Arundo

Yoga: Practices such as pranayama, a breathing exercise, can provide relief from respiratory allergy symptoms like nasal congestion, runny nose, and difficulty breathing.

The most effective way to prevent allergic reactions is by avoiding exposure to allergens. This can be accomplished by implementing simple lifestyle changes, such as:

• Steering clear of dusty and moldy areas
• Wearing a mask or covering the nose and mouth with a wet cloth in dusty environments or while cleaning
• Ensuring proper ventilation and natural light in all rooms to prevent mold growth
• Avoiding areas like gardens or fields if you have pollen or insect allergies
• Keeping away from pets if you're allergic to pet fur or dander (animal skin flakes)
• Refraining from eating foods that trigger allergies, such as nuts, milk, certain fish, or mushrooms
• Avoiding contact with substances like metals or detergents that cause skin allergies

Managing Annoying Allergy Symptoms

If you're dealing with bothersome allergy symptoms, you can take steps to relieve them:

• Stay calm.
• Immediately remove yourself from the allergen.
• For mild symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, or a slight rash, use over-the-counter medications to relieve congestion. Applying emollient creams can soothe skin rashes.
• A saline nasal rinse can help ease nasal congestion.
• A cold compress or ice pack, or a shower, can reduce skin rashes or a burning sensation.
• Always keep an emergency epinephrine injection on hand in case of an anaphylactic reaction.

Living with allergies can be challenging, as even minimal exposure to allergens can trigger severe reactions, including anaphylaxis. While treatments can help reduce the severity of allergic responses, they may not eliminate symptoms entirely.

Daily activities like cleaning and dusting can become difficult, and dietary restrictions may be necessary to avoid allergens. Individuals may also need alternative medications if certain treatments cause allergic complications.

For those with severe allergies, it is strongly advised to carry an emergency epinephrine injection at all times. This can be crucial in managing a serious anaphylactic reaction.