An allergy is the improper response of the immune system to a specific foreign substance. When exposed to a normally harmless substance, such as dust, the immune system reacts as if the substance is harmful, causing uncomfortable physical symptoms. The substances that cause this reaction are called allergens. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), more than 50 million people in the United States suffer from allergies each year.
Allergens are common environmental substances that can be found indoors and outdoors. Indoor allergens are present year round and are known as perennial allergens. Indoor allergens include:
- Pet dander (animal hair, skin flakes, saliva, or urine)
- House dust mites
- Mold
- Cockroach droppings
Outdoor allergens include:
- Pollen
- Insect stings
- Grasses and weeds
Pollen is a seasonal allergen and a common outdoor allergen. Trees, grasses, and weeds produce pollen during the reproductive season of the plant. The season varies depending on the plant; it is generally in the spring.
The most common symptoms of an allergic reaction are rhinitis or "hayfever." The symptoms are sneezing, congestion, runny nose, itchiness in the nose, roof of the mouth, throat, eyes and ears. These allergic symptoms can turn into chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma.
Rhinitis or "hayfever" is an inflammation of the mucous membranes that occurs when allergens touch the lining of the nose.
Yes, asthma (an inflammation of the bronchial airways) is one of the more serious respiratory diseases caused by sensitivity to allergens and irritants. This inflammation causes the airways to produce increased mucus, mucosal swelling, and muscle contraction. These bodily changes produce airway obstruction, chest tightness, coughing, and wheezing. If the allergic reaction is acute, these changes can cause severe shortness of breath and low blood oxygen.
Skin allergies are bodily reactions caused by exposure to allergens and include:
- Eczema, is an allergic skin disorder often affecting the face, elbows, and knees. The common symptom is intense itching that can turn into lesions or oozing blisters. The most common triggers include allergens, overheating or sweating, emotional stress, eating certain foods, and contact with irritants such as wool, pets, soaps or other substances.
- Hives are marked by a swelling of the skin accompanied by redness, and itching. The most common cause of hives can be a viral infection. An allergic reaction to drugs, foods, or latex may also cause hives. Some people have chronic hives that occur as a reaction to circumstances or events, such as scratching.
Eliminating the trigger is the best remedy.
- Contact dermatitis is a reaction produced by the contact of the skin with an allergic substance causing the skin to become red, itchy and inflamed. Poison ivy is the most common cause. Other plants, metals, cosmetics, and medications also cause a reaction.
Food allergies occur when one has an allergic reaction in response to food. Even tiny amounts of the certain food can cause an allergic reaction in people with a sensitivity to it. Some common food allergies are caused by: milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, soy, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish. Allergic reactions include intestinal disturbances, skin rashes, and breathing difficulties.
Anaphylactic shock is the most severe type of allergic reaction which may involve the entire body. Anaphylaxis occurs in people after they are exposed to a substance they are allergic to. The reaction can result in trouble breathing, loss of consciousness, and even death. Anaphylactic shock is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical treatment and subsequent follow-up. The most common substances are foods, medications, and insect stings.
A health care professional can diagnose allergies after a detailed health history and physical examination. They may also perform additional diagnostic tests including skin or blood tests, if necessary.
Common indoor allergens such as cockroach droppings, pet dander, house dust mites, and mold may be reduced. You may have to work with a health care professional to develop a care plan to manage your allergies. This may involve taking medications. Avoid or reduce exposure or ingestion of substances, which trigger your allergies.
National Alliance for Hispanic Health
Su Familia: The National Hispanic Family Health Helpline
1-866-SU-FAMILIA (1-866-783-2645)
SuFamilia@hispanichealth.org
http://www.hispanichealth.org
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology
http://www.aaaai.org
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
1-800-727-8462
http://www.aafa.org
U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services
http://www.hhs.gov/drugs/index.shtml#safe
The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network
http://www.foodallergy.org
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
http://www3.niaid.nih.gov/
