Who in this whole world has not heard about Allergy? When I thought of it I realized that everyone I came across with till the date has sometime or other has talked about allergy. Each one of us by our common observations and through discussions definitely has certain kind of idea of what allergy is and how it presents. But like any other diseases, in the absence of a proper literature you are likely to have certain kind of false notions or incomplete information. So let me reveal certain facts about allergy.
What Allergy is all about?
Allergy actually is a response of our body to any substance in an exaggerated manner. It is a form of hypersensitivity. It is an immune reaction of the body in some people to certain things which do not normally elicit any such response in most of the people. Scientists think that actually our environment and genes both are responsible in bringing up of allergy.
Which are the substances likely to cause allergy?
Actually it varies with person to person. There are certain substances which are now called as allergens, which are likely to cause allergy. It is found that a person who is allergic to one substance is likely to be allergic to some other potential allergen as well. So precautions should always be taken with such individuals. Some common allergens as noticed are-
Pollen grains, dust, certain food products, spores, pet dander, some drugs, certain insects
Does allergy travels in families?
This is something worth noticing. I would say that not all the forms of allergy run in families. But yes, there are definitely some allergies that keep a family occupied. Such an allergy which has a family history has been given a special name; ATOPY. A truth that also cannot be kept aside is that not all the people who have a family history develop allergy and many others at the same time who do not have a history, get allergy.
Who are likely to have allergy?
This is actually a modification of the above question only. But still needs attention. Obviously anyone who has a family background of allergy should remain alert. In addition to this the people who are exposed to pollution, infection, some hormonal problems and smoking are also at risk.
How does it manifest?
There are wide varieties of symptoms by which an allergy expresses itself. The intensity also varies from just mild sneezing to even death. This is what actually made me talk about allergy, because many of us do not really bother to take it seriously. Allergy should never be taken lightly because it may cost you high anytime.
Some of the common symptoms are-
For mild form-watery and red eyes, sneezing and congested nose, rashes, itching
For the severe form- abdominal pain, diarrhea, Breathing problem, deglutination problems, vomiting, loss of consciousness, swelling in some or the other areas of body, wheezing, red face, tightness in chest.
How to combat an allergic reaction?
For a mild reaction-
Keep yourself and the patient calm. Do not let anxiety develop as it is more likely to disrupt the situation. Now avoid any further exposure to the substance causing allergy. In case of development of rashes apply cold pads and calamine. Take the medical advice. You can take antihistaminic over the counter also, but try to avoid it.
For a severe reaction-
This is actually a challenging job.
Here also keep calm. Now try to remove the contact with allergen. Try to get a medical help as soon as possible. If the patient is finding it difficult to breathe then resuscitate him. Also if he is critical inject the drug and do not try giving anything orally (an allergic person should always carry the medicine with him). Try preventing development of shock stage.
What not to do during an attack?
If the patient is finding it difficult to breathe then do not try to put anything below the head as it will occlude the airway.Also do not give anyt5hing by mouth.
Never ever believe that an attack will ensure protection.
How to prevent it?
The only thing to prevent is avoid coming across with the things you know you are allergic to.
What is the treatment?
There is actually no treatment which can assure you a life time safety. An allergic person has to take medicine almost through out the life. However there are drugs which can help you by decreasing both the frequency and intensity of your problem. You must consult your doctor for a real effective treatment as treatment varies with individuals . Some general guidance towards the treatment is you actually have 2 options; drugs and immunotherapy.
1)Drugs- Antihistaminic, Corticosteroids. Mast cell stabilizers, adrenaline, anticholinergics.
2)Immunotherapy- certain kind of vaccines are now being applied to treat allergy. These are actually of 3 kinds.
1) Hyposensitization
2) Monoclonal Anti-IgE antibodies
3) Sublingual immunotherapy.
Is there any available natural treatment?
Fortunately yes there is something herbal available. The thing which will help you is Xanthone which is obtained from fruit Mangosteen. You must know more about it from your physician.
Lastly I would like to say is never lose your heart because how you fair is completely in your own hands.
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