Allergy occurs when an individual reacts unusually to harmless substances in the surrounding environment. These substances are called allergenic substances and frequently are discovered in pollen, dust mites, animals, dust, pets, insects, fungi and some medications. Atopy is also the inherited tendency to develop allergy-related diseases. Most of the atopic conditions are atopic eczema and hay fever.
The allergic reactions can be either direct or indirect. Direct reactions indicate visible signs and symptoms such as sneezing, swelling, redness, itching, etc. Indirect reactions occur without the individual’s knowledge and may not be evident for days or weeks after exposure to the allergen. Such reactions are called secondary reactions.
The most common reaction is an itchy nose, eyes and throat. Other symptoms may include wheezing and difficulty in breathing. Treatment of allergy requires medical evaluation. If the cause of the allergy is determined then the allergen can be removed. There are various types of medications available to reduce the allergic reaction. Individuals are advised to avoid the allergen, but if this cannot be avoided then certain measures should be taken to ensure prompt treatment.
Individuals should avoid all insect stings, so that they do not become allergic. Symptoms include itching, swelling, redness and mild burning and pain. Some people are more sensitive than other and hence have more severe symptoms after exposure to insect stings. If an individual feels that he has been stung repeatedly by a particular insect then he should inform his doctor. The doctor will examine the skin, check for infections and recommend medication.
There are also a few additional reactions which are very rare. Individuals who suffer from angioedema due to inhalation of certain chemicals or fumes can develop anaphylaxis after being exposed to these chemicals. In such cases, the individual can suffer from serious swelling of the throat and bronchial muscles. If you have asthma or COPD and are using a nebulizer for relief of asthma symptoms, then it is recommended to check with your doctor whether you are allergic to the product used in the nebulizer. If this is the case then the nebulizer may not work.
Allergic reactions may occur in different ways. Some individuals develop symptoms suddenly while some show symptoms over time. Understanding what these symptoms are and how to control them is very important for allergy sufferers.
One of the most common food allergies is egg allergy. An individual with egg allergy may outgrow his or her reaction over a period of time. Many children who outgrow an egg allergy may have a more severe reaction when they are older. There is an especially high incidence of egg allergy in those children who begin to have symptoms when they are two years old or younger. In these cases doctors often have to be notified to parents so that the doctor can monitor the children’s health more closely.
Allergies can be difficult to diagnose. Sometimes an individual will outgrow an allergy just as quickly as they outgrew their symptoms. Allergies can be controlled by following the guidelines set forth by a physician. Individuals who suffer from allergies should avoid areas that they suspect might be responsible for their reaction. If an individual is experiencing an allergy, be sure to notify your physician as soon as possible.
