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| Frequently
Asked Questions |
What
is an allergy?
One of the marvels of the human body
is that it can defend itself against harmful invaders such as
viruses or bacteria. But sometimes, the defenses are too aggressive
and certain substances are mistakenly identified by the body
as dangerous. The immune system rallies its defenses, launching
a host of complex chemical weapons to attack and destroy the
supposed enemy. In the process, some unpleasant and, in extreme
cases, life-threatening symptoms may be experienced.
What causes allergic reactions?
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Many
ordinary substances can trigger an allergic reaction. Among
the most common triggers are plant pollens, molds, household
dust, dust mites, animal dander, chemicals, foods, medications,
feathers and insect stings. These triggers are called “allergens”.
It is the body’s response to these allergens that causes
the symptoms of allergy.
What are the different types
of allergic reactions and symptoms? |
Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) – Allergic rhinitis describes reactions that take place
when an allergen is inhaled through the nose or mouth. Symptoms
may include sneezing, congestion, runny nose, excess mucus,
itchy eyes, scratchy or burning throat and skin itching. These
symptoms may be caused by pollen and only occurs during the
warm seasons. Sometimes the symptoms are year-round, in which
the culprit may be dust, dander from indoor pets or animals,
or, less frequently, a food allergy.
Contact Dermatitis
(Skin Allergy) – Contact
dermatitis, eczema and hives are skin conditions that can be
caused by allergens or other irritants. When skin comes in direct
contact with these items, symptoms may occur. There are many
triggers in addition to the ones listed above.
Asthma
– Asthma is caused when bronchial
muscle spasms constrict the flow of air to the lungs. The linings
of airways become inflamed and swollen, and excess mucus may
clog the airways. An asthma attack is characterized by labored
or restricted breathing, a tight feeling in the chest, coughing
and wheezing. The symptoms may develop quickly and may vary
in severity from mild discomfort to life-threatening events.
Anaphylaxis – Anaphylaxis
is a rare, potentially fatal allergic reaction that affects
many parts of the body at once. The trigger may be an insect
sting, a food or medication. Symptoms may include a drop in
blood pressure, flushing, difficulty breathing, swelling of
the throat and loss of consciousness. The symptoms may be immediate
and progress rapidly. Emergency medical attention should be
sought at the first sign of an anaphylactic reaction.
How can an allergist help?
An allergist has specialized training
and expertise in managing patients with these conditions. They
can help you identify causes, triggers and develop a treatment
plan for your individual needs. The goal is for you to lead
a life that is normal and as symptom-free as possible.
What can you expect
during an allergy evaluation?
An allergy evaluation has many components.
It will include a thorough history of your symptoms, triggers
and environment. A physical exam is performed to aid in making
a diagnosis. Many types of diagnostic testing are available
as well. This may include allergy skin testing, pulmonary functions
and specialized tests that can be ordered for specific medication,
food or exercise conditions. A treatment plan is designed to
address the specific concerns of each patient, with the goal
to have each patient understand their disease, as well as its
treatment and prevention options.
What types of treatments
are available?
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Prevention
– The most effective approach to treating
asthma or allergies is to avoid the factors that trigger the
condition in the first place. Even when it is not possible to
completely avoid allergens, an allergist can design strategies
for reducing exposure and preventing symptoms.
Medications
– A number of new and effective medications are available.
The goal is to outline what is available and to balance safety
and effective plans with what each patients needs.
Immunotherapy (Allergy
Injections) – In this
treatment, the patient is injected over the course of time with
gradually increasing doses of the substances to which they are
allergic. In many cases, the body’s reaction to the substance
becomes less pronounced over time.
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What is a food allergy?
A true food allergy involves the
abnormal response of the body’s immune mechanisms to specific
foods or food ingredients. A wide variety of symptoms occur
with a food allergy and usually fall into these categories:
• Gastro-intestinal: abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting,
diarrhea
• Skin : itching, hives, swelling, rash
• Upper and lower respiratory: asthma, cough, nasal symptoms,
watery/itchy eyes, throat swelling, hoarseness, trouble swallowing.
Anaphylaxis is the most severe and sometimes fatal type of food
allergy. Symptoms can develop within minutes or hours after
eating and immediate medical attention must be sought.
What foods cause allergic
reactions?
Foods that commonly cause allergy
in infants and children are egg, fish, milk, peanuts, soy, and
wheat. Foods that commonly cause allergy in adults are soy,
fish, shellfish, peanuts and nuts. However, food allergy may
develop to any food that is included in the diet, and may develop
at any time in life.
How are food allergies
treated?
Once a food allergy is diagnosed,
avoidance is critical. Food selection and preparation techniques
must be carefully reviewed. There are many educational resources
available when seeking help for the food allergic individual.
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