Allergy DIseases

What Is Allergy?

Allergy is the body’s exaggerated immune response to substances that are typically harmless. This overreaction can occur throughout the body or be localized to specific parts:

• In the eyes: Allergic conjunctivitis
• In the upper respiratory tract: Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
• In the lungs: Asthma
• On the skin: Urticaria, eczema, or contact dermatitis
• Drug allergy and food allergy may affect the entire body

Causes of Allergy

Allergy is a common condition. Its development is influenced by both genetic predisposition and environmental factors. The immune system usually protects us from harmful invaders such as bacteria and viruses. However, in allergic individuals, the immune system overreacts to harmless substances, known as allergens.

When the immune system reacts abnormally, symptoms such as itching, redness, swelling, spasms, tearing, and runny nose can appear. In severe cases, it may cause anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening emergency that affects the whole body.

Common allergens include:

• Pollen
• Mold
• Pet dander
• House dust mites
• Medications
• Certain foods

Less commonly, allergies may be triggered by non-allergen factors such as sunlight, cold, physical exertion, or vibration.

If both parents have allergies, the child is more likely to develop allergic conditions. Allergies on the mother’s side increase the likelihood more than the father’s. Symptoms vary depending on the allergen and the individual’s immune response.

Symptoms of Allergies

Lower Respiratory Tract Allergy

• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Wheezing
• Fatigue

Allergic Conjunctivitis

• Watery eyes
• Burning sensation
• Redness
• Itching and swelling around the eyes

Upper Respiratory Tract Allergy

• Runny nose
• Frequent sneezing
• Nasal congestion
• Itchy and sore throat
• Recurrent sinus infections

Food Allergy

• Diarrhea
• Gas and bloating
• Abdominal swelling
• Early satiety
• Nausea and abdominal pain
• Dyspepsia and indigestion

Skin Allergy

• Urticaria (hives)
• Itching
• Eczema
• Skin blisters
• Skin flaking

Drug Allergies and Insect Stings

These can cause allergic reactions involving the entire body. In many cases, several symptoms may appear simultaneously.

How Is Allergy Diagnosed?

Allergy symptoms are often mistaken for other conditions. Allergy tests are used to determine whether symptoms are due to allergic reactions. There are two primary types of tests:

Skin Test (PRICK TEST)

• The most commonly used allergy test
• Suspected allergens are applied to the skin
• If redness, swelling, or itching occurs, the test is positive
• Allows for testing multiple allergens simultaneously
• Can be performed on children and infants

Blood Test

• Blood sample is analyzed for reactions to allergens
• More comfortable for the patient
• Tests include total IgE levels, eosinophil count, and specific IgE levels
• Especially useful for diagnosing respiratory and food allergies

Allergy Treatment Options

The most common medications used in the treatment of allergies include:

• Antihistamines
• Decongestants
• Corticosteroids

These medications are available in various forms such as tablets, creams, eye drops, nasal sprays, and syrups. However, they should always be used under medical supervision.

Allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots or vaccines) may also be recommended, especially in cases of persistent or severe allergies.