ALLERGIES

What are allergies?
When a person with immune susceptibility comes in contact with certain substances be it on touching, eating, inhaling or even injections. it leads to adverse reactions (allergic reactions) in the body. The allergy may present in a number of ways.

What are the types of allergic reaction?

• Asthma: Asthma is a condition that makes breathing out difficult. It affects the air passages in the lungs. This may be caused from pollen, dust, domestic pets, fumes, etc.
• Hay fever: This is an uncomfortable reaction to pollen which causes a runny nose, swollen, itchy eyes and other symptoms resembling a head cold.
• Skin allergies: It leads to skin rash, eczema. Causes may be plants, domestic pets, foods, drugs, household chemicals, cleaners, etc.
• Intestinal allergies may result in abdominal pain/cramps, diarrhea and vomiting. Causative agents of such allergies include food substances, drugs, etc.
• Anaphylactic Shock: It is a life threatening allergic reaction that has a wide spread body reaction. It leads to widespread body rash, swelling of the face and neck, breathlessness, anxiety, itching, t ightness in the chest, feeling of impending doom, a fast pulse and finally unconsciousness.

       Anaphylaxis is an emergency and requires immediate action. Call for an ambulance and help the victim rest in the most comfortable sitting position. If the casualty becomes unconscious, check whether resuscitation should be given and treat as appropriate.

What are the treatments for allergies?
A person with allergic problems should avoid the specific allergy producing substances. The doctor usually prescribes medications to keep the allergies under control. A patient with asthma may need to be on inhalers or pumps. For skin allergies, calamine lotion may be soothing. In addition, the doctor may prescribe some ointments. If the rash is possibly due to prescribed medication, do not stop taking it without seeking medical advice.

Last updated on 01-07-2004