An allergy happens, when an individual becomes sensitized to a particular substance, that provokes an allergic reaction. These substances are called allergens, or triggers, because they trigger an overreaction by the body's immune system. There are naturally occurring allergens, like pollens, environmental substances, like chemicals, and the foods that we consume, usually proteins, amongst numerous others.

There are four different ways through which allergens can enter the body:

Inhalation - as with pollen and dust mites.
Eating - as with some foods.
Absorption - via the skin, as with some plants or chemicals.
Injection - some people are allergic to drugs, such as penicillin.

When an allergic individual experiences an allergen, for the first time, the allergic reactions do not occur, but the immune system becomes sensitized. Think of it, as being ready to resist allergens, that it wrongly assumes to be aggressors, intent on damaging the body.

After becoming hypersensitized to a specific substance, the next time the immune system experiences a similar allergen; it automatically over-produces antibodies to cope with the perceived threat. The antibodies bind with the allergens, and as they circulate throughout the body, they interact with other cells. Then substances, including histamine, cause inflammation, which is a common allergy condition. Allergies vary from person to person, and the symptoms go from something as mild as a drippy nose, to anaphylactic shock, which can be fatal.

Diagnoses and Testing

Where it is appropriate, skin testing is preferable to blood testing, as it is more specific, easier to do, and more economic. However, your doctor will know what is best suited to your condition.

Treatment

Physicians, who are experts in treating allergic diseases, undergo extensive training. In the USA at least nine years is needed to become an allergist immunologist. It is reassuring to know that real advances in medical treatments have been developed by allergists. These include fast acting epinephrine tablets, low allergy foods, and advances in treating wasp stings.

Immunotherapy

When immunotherapy is thought to be an appropriate treatment, it may either reduce the intensity of an allergy or cure it completely. It requires injecting progressively increased doses, of the allergen, identified as causing the symptoms. There have been good results in dealing with hay fever and asthma.

Prescribed Drugs

Several drugs are used to counter the symptoms of allergy which include, antihistamines, cortisone, hydrocortisone, theophlene, epinephrine, and dexamethosone. Some preparations are obtainable over the counter, but it is best to find out from your doctor, what is suitable for your own allergy.

Summary

It is not known exactly why some people suffer from allergies, whilst others do not. Studies suggest that there is an inherited reason for some allergies.

It seems clear that the incidence of allergies is growing, and that it appears to be related to contemporary living.

As an example, work places have become airtight, with windows that used to open giving way to air conditioning. However, the quality of the outdoor air, particularly in built up areas, is questionable. On a world wide basis, rain forests are diminishing, whilst gas guzzling vehicles are everywhere. Consider the development of the emerging nations, and you have a recipe for industrial soup.

Some of the Chinese immigrants develop hay fever, after moving to the USA, for a few years. More recently, there has been much publicity concerning industrial contamination in Beijing, and other cities. Probably the time could soon arrive, when the good citizens of China will have their own, local grown sort of hay fever! Could the sweet smell of success be accompanied by allergic respiratory diseases ? if it does, it must prove something!

Disclaimer

The content of this article is only for general information, and must not be used as a replacement for the medical guidance of your doctor, or other medically qualified practitioner. Always seek advice from your doctor, before deciding if a particular product or treatment, is suitable for your condition.

You should know that what suits one allergy sufferer could be inappropriate for another. Do not act on any advice you have read, either in this article or elsewhere, without the total approval of your doctor. The author cannot accept any liability whatsoever, for any consequences arising from or thought to be arising from using this article.