What Is an Allergy?

An allergy is an abnormal and exaggerated immune response to a substance that is typically harmless to most people. This substance, known as an allergen, can trigger an allergic reaction in individuals who are sensitized to it. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, certain foods, insect stings, and certain medications.

When a person with allergies is exposed to an allergen, their immune system identifies it as a threat and produces specific antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE) in response. These IgE antibodies then bind to mast cells and basophils, which are types of immune cells found in tissues throughout the body.

The next time the person is exposed to the same allergen, it binds to the IgE antibodies on the surface of mast cells and basophils, triggering the release of various chemicals, including histamine. Histamine and other chemicals cause various allergy symptoms, which can range from mild to severe. Common allergic reactions include:

1. Respiratory symptoms: These can include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. These symptoms are often associated with allergies to pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold.
2. Skin reactions: Allergies can cause itching, hives (raised, red, itchy welts on the skin), eczema (a chronic skin condition), and contact dermatitis (skin inflammation due to direct contact with an allergen).
3. Gastrointestinal symptoms: Some food allergies can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, or even anaphylaxis (a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction).
4. Eye symptoms: Allergic conjunctivitis can cause redness, itching, and watering of the eyes.
5. Anaphylaxis: In severe cases, exposure to allergens can trigger a systemic allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. This is a medical emergency and can cause symptoms such as swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention and treatment with epinephrine (adrenaline).

Allergies can vary in severity and can develop at any age. Some individuals may outgrow allergies over time, while others may experience them throughout their lives. Allergy management often involves identifying and avoiding allergens, using medications such as antihistamines or corticosteroids to control symptoms, and in the case of severe allergies, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector for emergency treatment. Allergists and immunologists are medical specialists who can diagnose and provide guidance on managing allergies.

How long do allergies last?

The duration of allergies can vary widely from person to person and depends on several factors, including the type of allergen, the individual's immune system, and the specific allergic reaction. Allergies can be categorized as acute or chronic:

• Acute Allergies: These are short-term allergies that typically last for a short duration, ranging from a few hours to a few days. They are often triggered by a specific exposure to an allergen and tend to resolve once the allergen is removed or the immune response subsides. For example, if you have a mild allergic reaction to a particular food or insect sting, the symptoms may last for a few hours to a couple of days but should resolve relatively quickly.
• Chronic Allergies: Some allergies are chronic and persist over a more extended period. Chronic allergies are often related to allergens that are present year-round, such as dust mites, pet dander, or certain types of mold. In these cases, allergy symptoms can be ongoing or recurrent and may last for weeks, months, or even years if not properly managed.

It's important to note that while acute allergic reactions can resolve relatively quickly, chronic allergies may require long-term management to control symptoms and improve the individual's quality of life.

How to stop allergy?

Allergies cannot be completely cured, but their symptoms can be managed and mitigated through a combination of strategies. Here are some ways to help prevent and alleviate allergy symptoms:

Identify and Avoid Allergens:

• Determine the specific allergens that trigger your allergic reactions through allergy testing, such as skin prick tests or blood tests.
• Once identified, take steps to minimize your exposure to these allergens. For example, if you're allergic to pollen, monitor pollen forecasts and stay indoors on high-pollen days. If you're allergic to dust mites, use allergen-proof covers on pillows and mattresses and wash bedding in hot water regularly.

Keep Indoor Air Clean:

• Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in your home's heating and cooling systems to trap allergens.
• Consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter in your bedroom and other frequently used areas.
• Vacuum your home regularly using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter.

Maintain Good Hygiene:

• Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors to remove pollen and other allergens from your skin and clothing.
• Keep your home clean to minimize dust and pet dander.
• Wash your hands frequently, especially before touching your face or eating.

Medications:

• Over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroids can provide relief from allergy symptoms. Consult a healthcare professional for appropriate recommendations.
• Allergy shots (immunotherapy) may be recommended for severe allergies to help desensitize your immune system over time.

Nasal Irrigation:

• Saline nasal rinses can help flush out allergens from your nasal passages and relieve congestion. You can use a neti pot or a saline nasal spray for this purpose.

Allergy-Proof Your Bedroom:

• Use allergen-proof covers on pillows and mattresses.
• Wash bedding, including sheets and pillowcases, in hot water regularly.
• Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons.

Avoid Smoke and Irritants:

• Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke, strong odors, and other respiratory irritants, as they can worsen allergy symptoms.

Dietary Changes (for Food Allergies):

• If you have food allergies, it's crucial to strictly avoid the allergenic foods. Read food labels carefully and inform restaurant staff about your allergies when dining out.

Emergency Plan (for Severe Allergies):

If you have a history of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), carry an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen) with you at all times. Learn how to use it and follow your healthcare provider's guidance on when to administer it.