By Jacquie Eubanks BSN, RN
Our immune systems protect us against harmful substances such as viruses and bacteria. When our sensitive immune systems mistake a normally harmless substance for a dangerous foreign invader, it triggers an abnormal series of reactions. Exposure to allergens stimulates the production of antibodies which attach themselves to mast blood cells found in the airways and intestinal tract. Once bound, the cells release histamines which play a major role in allergic reactions. Histamines are the culprits behind the sneezing, itching, runny nose and the general miserable feeling experienced by those suffering with allergies.
Allergy symptoms range from mild to moderate to severe depending on an individual's sensitivities. Reactions can involve airways, sinuses, nasal passages, digestive system and the skin. Those most at risk for developing allergies include:
- Individuals with a family history of asthma, eczema or hay fever have an increased risk of sensitivity. When one parent is allergic, the inherited tendency is 50%. When both parents have allergies, the risk jumps to 75%.
- Children are more likely to develop allergies. Many children have a tendency to outgrow allergies which may return later in life.
- People with asthma are more likely to develop other allergies if they have any type of allergic condition.
- Skin contact. Poisonous plants, animal scratches and pollen can cause skin rashes, itching and hives.
- Injection. Wasp and bee stings can cause swelling, itching, hives, shortness of breath and in severe cases anaphylaxis, a life threatening emergency.
- Ingestion. Medications and foods can cause stomach upset, abdominal pain and cramping, swelling of the tongue and throat, and anaphylaxis.
- Inhalation. Dust, pollen, mold, mildew and animal dander can cause stuffy or runny nose, excess mucous production, itchy nose and throat, coughing and wheezing.
- Antihistamines which work to block or prevent the production of histamines reducing allergy symptoms. Antihistamines can have side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness and restlessness.
- Decongestants help to reduce swelling in the nasal passages, relieve pressure and improve airflow. Decongestant nasal sprays should not be used for more than 3 days as they can have a rebound effect that can potentially worsen congestion.
- Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatories for severe allergic conditions. Corticosteroids can have significant benefits. However, they affect your entire body so they can produce major side effects such as elevated blood pressure, mood swings and weight gain.
- Exposure to airborne allergens such as dander and dust mites can be reduced by frequent washing of bedding and clothing, replacing your vacuum filter with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter and vacuuming often.
- Maintain low humidity in your home. Reduce moisture in your kitchen and bath with ventilation fans and dehumidifiers to help decrease mold and mildew allergens.
- Avoid known allergens such as foods and medications to cut the risk of severe reactions.
- Track your reactions to identify triggers and give yourself a better chance of avoiding them.
- If you have air conditioning, keep your windows closed to keep pollen outdoors, especially at dawn and dust when pollen counts are highest. Installing HEPA filters can help keep the indoor air clean.
- Bathe pets often to reduce dander and keep them out of your bedroom.
- Carpets and drapes are dust collectors. Replace them with shades and hard floor coverings where possible.
- Make your home and car non-smoking areas.
- Shower to remove pollen and allergens after spending time outdoors.
- The use of a Neti Pot with hypertonic saline wash can flush allergens from your nasal passages.
- Spicy foods containing chili peppers may reduce congestion.
- An anti-inflammatory diet and deep breathing exercises can alleviate stress induced asthma.
- Acupuncture, an ancient medical practice, has shown promising results in relieving allergic rhinitis.
- If you have had severe reactions in the past, a medical alert bracelet can let others know of your condition should you have another serious episode.
