Allergies*
ALLERGIES, WHAT ARE THEY, HOW TO GET RELIEF?
Allergic rhinitis, also called pollinosis,
hay fever or nasal allergies, is a collection of symptoms, predominantly in the
nose and eyes, that occur after exposure to airborne particles of dust, dander,
or the pollens of certain seasonal plants in people who are allergic to these
substances.
When these symptoms are caused by pollens, the allergic rhinitis is commonly
known as "hay fever", after the fact it is most prevalent during haying.
Causes
Allergies are caused by an oversensitive immune system, leading to a misdirected
immune response. The immune system normally protects the body against harmful
substances such as bacteria and viruses. Allergy occurs when the immune system
reacts to substances (allergens) that are generally harmless and in most people
do not cause an immune response.
As noted above, hay fever involves an allergic reaction to pollen. A virtually
identical reaction occurs with allergy to mold, animal dander, dust, and similar
inhaled allergens. This is often exaggerated in populated areas (cities) where
the female to male ratio of plants can frequently reach 9|1 or 10|1 (because
male plants typically do not produce the clutter (fruit) that is consequent in
female plants.) Substances such as pollution and man made chemicals
(chlorine, detergents, etc.), which can normally be tolerated can greatly
aggravate the condition.
The pollens that cause hay fever vary from person to person and from region to
region; generally speaking, the tiny, hardly visible pollens of wind-pollinated
plants are the predominant culprits. Pollens of insect-pollinated plants are too
large to remain airborne and pose no risk. Examples of plants commonly
responsible for hay fever include:
Trees such as birch, alder, horse chestnut, hazel, willow, poplar, linden (birch
is the most common culprit: 15-20% of people suffering from hay fever are
allergic to birch pollen)
Grasses (Gramineae), especially rye and timothy
Wind-pollinated flowers (e.g. daisies)
Weeds (e.g. ragweed, plantains, nettles, mugwort, sorrel)
In addition to individual sensitivity and geographic differences in local plant
populations, the amount of pollen in the air can be a factor in whether hay
fever symptoms develop. Hot, dry, windy days are more likely to have increased
amounts of pollen in the air than cool, damp, rainy days when most pollen is
washed to the ground.
More Books about Allergies
When an allergen such as pollen or dust is inhaled by a person with a sensitized
immune system, it triggers antibody production. These antibodies bind to cells
that contain histamine. When the antibodies are stimulated by pollen and dust,
histamine (and other chemicals) are released. This causes itching, swelling, and
mucus production. Symptoms vary in severity from person to person. Very
sensitive individuals can experience hives or other rashes.
Some disorders may be associated with allergies. These include eczema and
asthma, among others.
Allergies are common. Heredity and environmental exposures may contribute to a
predisposition to allergies.
Symptoms
coughing
headache
itching nose, mouth, eyes, throat, skin, or any area
runny nose
impaired smell
sneezing
stuffy nose (nasal congestion)
tearing eyes
sore throat
wheezing
cross-reactivity allergy to certain fruits
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Signs and tests
The history of the person's symptoms is important in diagnosing allergic
rhinitis, including whether the symptoms vary according to time of day or the
season; exposure to pets or other allergens; and diet changes.
Allergy testing may reveal the specific allergens the person is reacting to.
Skin testing is the most common method of allergy testing. This may include
intradermal, scratch, patch, or other tests. Less commonly, the suspected
allergen is dissolved and dropped onto the lower eyelid as a means of testing
for allergies. (This test should only be done by a physician, never the patient,
since it can be harmful if done improperly.)
In certain individuals who cannot undergo skin testing (as determined by the
doctor), the RAST blood test may be helpful in determining specific allergen
sensitivity.
Sufferers might also find that cross-reactivity occurs. For example, someone
alergic to birch pollen may also find that they have an allergic reaction to the
skin of apples or potatoes. A clear sign of this is the occurrence of an itchy
throat after eating an apple or sneezing when peeling potatoes. This occurs
because of similarities in the proteins of the pollen and the food. There are
many cross-reacting substances.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to reduce allergy symptoms caused by the inflammation
of affected tissues. The best "treatment" is to avoid what causes your allergic
symptoms in the first place.
Medication
The most appropriate medication depends on the type and severity of symptoms.
Specific illnesses that are caused by allergies (such as asthma and eczema) may
require other treatments.
Options include the following:
Short-acting antihistamines, which are generally over-the-counter
(non-prescription), often relieve mild to moderate symptoms, but can cause
drowsiness. A pediatrician should be consulted before using these medicines in
children, as they may affect learning. One formerly prescription medication,
loratadine (Claritin), is now available over the counter. It does not tend to
cause drowsiness or affect learning in children.
Longer-acting antihistamines cause less drowsiness, can be equally effective,
and usually do not interfere with learning. These medications include
fexofenadine (Allegra), and cetirizine (Zyrtec).
Nasal corticosteroid sprays are very effective and safe for people with symptoms
not relieved by antihistamines alone. These medications include fluticasone (Flonase/Flixonase),
mometasone (Nasonex), triamcinolone (Nasacort), and Beclomethasone (Beconase).
Decongestants may also be helpful in reducing symptoms such as nasal congestion,
but should not be used for long periods.
Cromolyn sodium is available as a nasal spray (Nasalcrom) for treating hay
fever. Eye drop versions of cromolyn sodium and antihistamines are available for
itchy, bloodshot eyes.
Allergy shots (immunotherapy) are occasionally recommended if the allergen
cannot be avoided and if symptoms are hard to control. This includes regular
injections of the allergen, given in increasing doses (each dose is slightly
larger than the previous dose) that may help the body adjust to the antigen.
Homeopathic medicine, e.g. Arundo Mauritanica
Herbal medicine, e.g. Albarakha Oil
The source of this article is
Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. The text of this
article is licensed under the
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