Possible manifestations of allergies. Allergy symptoms in adults. Consequences of allergies. Allergy to ultraviolet rays

The inner surface of the nose is covered with a huge number of small vessels. When an allergen or antigen enters the nasal cavity, the vessels of the nasal mucosa dilate and blood flow increases, this is a kind of defense system of the immune system. A large influx of blood causes swelling of the mucous membrane and provokes copious mucus secretion. Decongestants act on the walls of mucosal vessels, causing them to narrow, which reduces blood flow and reduces swelling.

These drugs are not recommended for children under 12 years of age, as well as for nursing mothers and people with hypertension. It is also not recommended to use these drugs for more than 5-7 days, since with prolonged use they can cause a backlash and increase swelling of the nasal mucosa.

These drugs may also cause side effects such as dry mouth, headaches, and weakness. Very rarely, they can cause hallucinations or an anaphylactic reaction.

You should consult your doctor before starting to use these medications.

Leukotriene inhibitors(Montelukast (Singulair) are chemicals that block reactions caused by leukotrienes (leukotrienes are substances released by the body during an allergic reaction and cause inflammation and swelling of the airways). Most often used in the treatment of bronchial asthma. Leukotriene inhibitors can be used together with other medications, since no interactions with them have been found. Adverse reactions are extremely rare and can manifest themselves in the form of a headache, earache, or sore throat.

Steroid sprays(Beclomethasone (Beconas, Beclazon), Flucatisone (Nazarel, Flixonase, Avamis), Mometasone (Momat, Nasonex, Asmanex)) - these drugs are essentially hormonal drugs. Their action is to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, thereby reducing the symptoms of allergic reactions, namely nasal congestion. The absorption of these drugs is minimal so that all possible adverse reactions disappear, however, with long-term use of these drugs, in rare cases, such adverse reactions as nosebleeds or sore throat are possible. Before using these medications, it is advisable to consult your doctor.

Hyposensitization(immunotherapy) - In addition to avoiding contact with allergens and drug treatment, there is such a treatment method as: immunotherapy. This method involves the gradual, long-term introduction of gradually increasing amounts of allergens into your body, which will lead to a decrease in the sensitivity of your body to a given allergen.

This procedure involves the administration of small doses of the allergen in the form of a subcutaneous injection. Initially, you will be given injections at intervals of a week or less, while the dose of the allergen will be constantly increased, this regimen will be maintained until a “maintenance dose” is reached, this is the dose at which there is a pronounced effect of reducing the usual allergic reaction. However, once this “maintenance dose” is reached, it will need to be administered every few weeks for at least another 2-2.5 years. This treatment method is usually prescribed when a person has a severe form of allergy that does not respond well to conventional treatment, as well as for certain types of allergies, such as allergies to bee stings, wasp stings. This type of treatment should only be carried out in a specialized medical institution under the supervision of a group of specialists, since this method of treatment can provoke a severe allergic reaction.

Anaphylaxis(Anaphylactic shock)

This is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. People most often affected by anaphylaxis are:

• Respiratory tract (provokes spasms and pulmonary edema)
• Act of breathing (breathing disorder, shortness of breath)
• Blood circulation (lowering blood pressure)

The mechanism of development of anaphylaxis is the same as that of an allergic reaction, only the manifestation of anaphylaxis is tens of times more pronounced than with ordinary, even quite strong allergic reactions.

Causes of anaphylaxis

The causes are generally similar to common allergic reactions, but it is worth highlighting the causes that most often cause anaphylactic reactions:

• Insect bites
• Certain types of food
• Some types of medications
• Contrast agents used in diagnostic medical studies

Insect bites– despite the fact that the bite of any insect can cause an anaphylactic reaction, bee and wasp stings are the cause of anaphylactic shock in the vast majority. According to statistics, only 1 in 100 people have an allergic reaction to a bee or wasp sting, and only a very small number of people have an allergic reaction that develops into anaphylaxis.

Food– Peanuts are the main cause of anaphylactic reactions among foods. However, there are a number of other foods that can cause anaphylaxis:

• Walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds and Brazil nuts
• Milk
• Shellfish and crab meat

The following products are the least likely to cause an anaphylactic reaction:

• Bananas, grapes and strawberries

Medicines – there are a number of medicines that can trigger the development of anaphylactic reactions:

• Antibiotics (most often from the penicillin series ( penicillin, ampicillin, bicilin))
• Anesthetics (substances used during operations, intravenous anesthetics Thiopental, Ketamine, Propofol and inhalational anesthetics Sevovlurane, Desflurane, Halothane)
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, paracetamol, ibuprofen)
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (drugs used in the treatment of hypertension Captopril, Enalapril, Lisinopril)

People taking any drugs from the above groups, except angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, may cause an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis at the first dose, which will manifest itself within a short time after taking the medication, from several minutes to several hours.
An allergic reaction or anaphylactic shock can be triggered by angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor drugs, even if the patient has been using these drugs for several years.

However, the risk of any allergic reactions when taking any of the above drugs is very low and cannot be compared with the positive medical effects achieved in the treatment of various diseases.
For example:

• The risk of developing anaphylaxis when taking penicillin is approximately 1 in 5,000
• When using anesthetics 1 in 10,000
• When using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs 1 in 1500
• When using angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors 1 in 3000

Contrast agents- these are special chemicals that are administered intravenously and are used for a detailed examination of any part of the body or the vessels of any organ. Contrast agents are used in diagnostic medicine most often in studies such as computed tomography, angiography and x-ray examination.

The risk of developing an anaphylactic reaction when using contrast agents is approximately 1 in 10,000.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis

The time at which any symptoms appear depends on the route the allergen enters your body, so an allergen ingested through food can trigger the onset of symptoms from a few minutes to several hours, while an insect bite or injection can trigger the onset of symptoms within from 2 to 30 minutes. Symptoms vary and will depend on the severity of the reaction; in some people they may be mild itching and swelling, and in some they can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include the following:

• Red rash with severe itching
• Swelling in the eye area, swelling of the lips and limbs
• Narrowing, swelling and spasms of the airways that can cause difficulty breathing
• Feeling of a lump in the throat
• Nausea and vomiting
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Feeling of fear
• A sudden drop in blood pressure, which can lead to severe weakness, dizziness and loss of consciousness

Diagnosis of anaphylaxis

At this stage of medical development, it is not possible to determine in advance whether you will develop anaphylaxis. The diagnosis of anaphylaxis is made already at the time of the onset of an anaphylactic reaction based on symptoms, or after the occurrence of this reaction. Monitoring the development of all symptoms is also not possible, since in most cases they lead to a sharp deterioration in health and can lead to death, so it is necessary to immediately begin treatment at the first signs of this disease.

After the occurrence and treatment of an anaphylactic reaction, studies are carried out aimed at detecting the allergen that caused this reaction. If this is your first manifestation of anaphylaxis and allergies in general, you will be prescribed a range of tests used in making an allergy diagnosis, including some of the following specific tests:

• Skin tests
• Blood test for IgE
• Skin or patch tests (Patch-testing)
• Provocative tests

The main purpose of the study after an anaphylactic reaction is to detect the allergen that caused this reaction, also depending on the severity of the reaction to detect the allergen, it is necessary to use the safest possible test to in order to avoid a repeat reaction. The safest test is:

Radioallergosorbent test (RAST) This study allows you to determine the allergen that caused an anaphylactic reaction in the following way: a small amount of blood is taken from the patient, then small amounts of suspected allergens are placed in this blood; if a reaction occurs, namely the release of a large number of antibodies, the identified allergen is considered the cause of the reaction.

Treatment of anaphylactic shock

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and requires immediate qualified medical attention.

If you notice any of the symptoms in yourself or someone else, you must immediately call an ambulance.

If you notice a possible cause for the development of symptoms, such as a bee sting site with a protruding sting, it is necessary to remove it.

If you, as an allergy sufferer or a survivor of anaphylactic shock, or a victim, have adrenaline auto-injectors, you must immediately administer a dose of the drug intramuscularly. These autoinjectors include:

• EpiPen
• Anapen
• Jext

If any of them is available, one dose must be administered immediately (one dose = one injector). It should be injected into the thigh muscle on the dorsal lateral surface; injection into adipose tissue should be avoided as then no effect will follow. It is necessary to carefully read the instructions before use to ensure correct administration. After administration, it is necessary to fix the injector within 10 seconds in the same position in which the drug was administered. For most people, the condition should improve within a few minutes after administering the drug; if this does not happen, you will need to re-administer another dose of the drug if you have another auto-injector.

If a person is unconscious, it is necessary to turn him on his side, bending the leg on which he lies at the knee and placing the hand on which he lies under his head. This way he will be protected from vomit entering the respiratory tract. If a person is not breathing or has no pulse, resuscitation measures must be carried out, but only if you know how to do this, resuscitation measures are carried out until breathing and a pulse appear or until the ambulance team arrives.

Treatment in a hospital will be carried out with drugs similar to those used in the treatment of allergies.

Typically, the patient can be discharged from the hospital 2-3 days after anaphylaxis.
If you know allergens that can cause you an allergic reaction or even that can cause anaphylactic shock, you should avoid contact with them as much as possible.

How long does an allergy last?

In general, allergies as a disease can last a lifetime. In this case, allergy means hypersensitivity of the patient’s body to certain substances. Since such sensitivity is an individual characteristic of the body, it persists for a very long time, and the body will always react with the appearance of corresponding symptoms upon repeated contact with the allergen. Sometimes allergies can occur only in childhood or during periods of serious disturbances in the functioning of the immune system. Then it goes away within a few years, but the risk of a reaction upon repeated contact in the future still remains. Sometimes, with age, the intensity of the manifestations of the disease simply decreases, although the body’s increased sensitivity still remains.

If by allergy we mean its symptoms and manifestations, then their duration is very difficult to predict, since this is influenced by many different factors. The functioning of the immune system and the pathological mechanisms underlying allergic reactions are not fully understood. Therefore, no specialist can give a guarantee when the manifestations of the disease will disappear.

The duration of an allergic reaction is influenced by the following factors:

• Contact with an allergen. Everyone knows that an allergic reaction occurs due to the body’s contact with a specific substance – an allergen. The first contact in life does not cause an allergic reaction, since the body “gets to know” and recognizes the foreign substance. However, repeated contact leads to the appearance of pathological changes, since the body already has a set of necessary antibodies ( substances that react with the allergen). The longer the contact with the allergen, the longer the symptoms will be. For example, an allergy to pollen will last the entire flowering period of a certain plant if a person is constantly outdoors. If you try to spend more time at home, away from forests and fields, then contact with the allergen will be minimal, and the symptoms will disappear faster.
• Allergy form. Allergic reactions after contact with an allergen can take various forms. Each of these forms has a certain duration. For example, hives can last from a few hours to several weeks. Watery eyes, coughing and irritation of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract are usually caused by the allergen and disappear within a few days after stopping contact with it. An attack of bronchial asthma caused by allergens can last several minutes ( less than hours) after termination of contact. Angioedema ( Quincke's edema) occurs upon contact with an allergen and is characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the subcutaneous fatty tissue. After the start of treatment, it stops increasing, but completely resolves only after a few days ( sometimes hours). Anaphylactic shock is the most severe but short-lived allergic reaction of the body. Vasodilation, drop in blood pressure and breathing difficulties do not last long, but without medical attention they can lead to the death of the patient.
• Treatment effectiveness. The duration of the allergy manifestation largely depends on what drugs are used to treat the disease. The most rapid effect is observed from glucocorticoid drugs ( prednisolone, dexamethasone, etc.). That is why they are used for severe allergic reactions that threaten the patient’s life. Antihistamines act somewhat slower ( suprastin, erolin, clemastine). The effect of these drugs is weaker, and allergy symptoms will disappear gradually. But more often, antihistamines are prescribed for allergies, since glucocorticoids are similar in action to a number of hormones, which is why they can cause serious side effects. The sooner treatment is started, the faster it will be possible to eliminate allergy symptoms.
• Immune system status. A number of diseases of the thyroid, adrenal glands and other endocrine glands ( endocrine glands), as well as some pathologies of the immune system can affect the duration of allergy manifestations. When they occur, systemic disorders are observed that enhance the body’s immune response to various substances. Treatment of such pathologies will also lead to the disappearance of allergic manifestations.

To get rid of allergies faster, you should first consult an allergist. Only a specialist in this field can identify the specific allergen or allergens and prescribe the most effective treatment. Self-medication for allergies not only leads to a longer course of the disease, but also does not make it possible to avoid repeated contact with the allergen. After all, the patient can only guess what he is allergic to, but does not know for sure. Only a visit to the doctor and a special test will help determine which substance you should be wary of.

How quickly does an allergy appear?

There are several stages in the development of an allergic reaction, each of which is characterized by certain processes in the body. Upon first contact with the allergen ( a substance to which the body is pathologically sensitive) symptoms usually do not appear. The allergy itself occurs after repeated ( second and all subsequent) contact with an allergen. The time of onset of symptoms is very difficult to predict, since it depends on many different factors.

Upon repeated contact with an allergen, the body begins to release special substances, class E immunoglobulins ( IgE). They affect several types of cells scattered throughout the body, destroying their membrane. As a result, so-called mediator substances are released, the most important of which is histamine. Under the influence of histamine, the permeability of the vascular walls is disrupted, and some of the fluid leaves the dilated capillaries into the intercellular space. This causes swelling. Histamine also stimulates the contraction of smooth muscle in the bronchi, which can cause breathing difficulties. This whole chain takes some time. Nowadays, there are 4 types of allergic reactions. In three of them, all biochemical processes occur quickly. In one, a so-called delayed-type immune reaction occurs.

The rate of occurrence of various manifestations of allergies is influenced by the following factors:

• Type of allergic reaction.There are 4 types of allergic reactions. Usually immediate reactions predominate.
• Allergen quantity. This dependence is not always visible. Sometimes even a small amount of an allergen causes certain symptoms to appear almost instantly. For example, when a wasp stings ( if a person is allergic to their poison) almost immediately there is severe pain, redness, severe swelling, and sometimes rash and itching. In general, however, it is fair to say that the more allergen that enters the body, the faster symptoms will appear.
• Type of contact with allergen. This factor is very important, since different tissues of the body have different numbers of immunocompetent cells that recognize the allergen. If such a substance comes into contact with the skin, for example, itching or redness will appear after a longer time. Inhalation of pollen, dust, exhaust gases ( contact of the allergen with the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract) can almost instantly cause an attack of bronchial asthma or rapidly increasing swelling of the mucous membrane. When an allergen is introduced into the blood ( for example, contrast in some diagnostic procedures) anaphylactic shock also develops very quickly.
• Clinical form of allergy. Each of the possible allergy symptoms is a consequence of exposure to mediators. But it takes different times for symptoms to appear. For example, redness of the skin is due to the dilation of capillaries, which can occur very quickly. The smooth muscles of the bronchi also contract rapidly, causing an asthma attack. But swelling occurs due to the gradual seepage of fluid through the walls of blood vessels. It takes more time to develop. Food allergies usually do not appear immediately. This is due to the digestion of food and the release of the allergen ( it is usually a component of the product) takes time.
• Individual characteristics of the body. Each body has a different number of cells, mediators and receptors that take part in an allergic reaction. Therefore, exposure to the same allergen in the same doses in different patients can cause the appearance of different symptoms and at different intervals.

Thus, it is very difficult to predict when the first allergy symptoms will appear. Most often we are talking about minutes or, less often, hours. When a large dose of an allergen is administered intravenously ( contrast, antibiotic, other medications) the reaction develops almost instantly. Sometimes it takes several days for an allergic reaction to develop. This most often applies to skin manifestations of food allergies.

What can't you eat if you have allergies?

Nutrition and proper diet are the most important component of treatment for food allergies. However, even if you are allergic to substances that do not enter the body with food, proper nutrition is of a certain importance. The fact is that most people suffering from allergies have a hereditary predisposition to this disease and certain individual characteristics in the functioning of the immune system. Because of this, there is a high chance that their body is hypersensitive to several different allergens ( substances that provoke manifestations of the disease). Following a diet allows you to avoid eating foods that are potentially strong allergens.

For patients with any form of allergy, it is advisable to exclude the following foods from their diet:

• Most seafood. Seafood contains a very large amount of various microelements and vitamins. This explains their benefits for most people. However, it should be remembered that contact with new substances puts a strain on the immune system, and for people with allergies, there is an additional risk of exacerbation of the disease. You should limit your consumption of fish ( especially sea), and it is better to avoid caviar and seaweed completely.
• Dairy products. They should be consumed in moderation. Fresh milk and homemade fermented milk products should be completely abandoned. They contain a large amount of natural proteins, which are potential allergens. Factory-made dairy products go through several stages of processing, during which some of the proteins are destroyed. The risk of allergies remains, but is significantly reduced.
• Canned foods. Most industrial canned food is prepared with the addition of a large number of food additives. They are necessary to preserve the taste of products, extend shelf life and other commercial purposes. These additives are harmless to a healthy person, but they are potentially strong allergens.
• Some fruits and berries. A fairly common option is an allergy to strawberries, sea buckthorn, melon, and pineapples. Sometimes it manifests itself even when eating dishes made from these products ( compotes, jams, etc.). Citrus fruits are very strong potential allergens ( oranges, etc.). In this case, it will be regarded as a full-fledged food allergy. However, even for people, say, with allergies to bee stings or pollen, consuming these products is undesirable due to the burden on the immune system.
• Products with a large number of nutritional additives. A number of products already include a wide range of different chemical food additives in their production technology. These include sweetened carbonated drinks, marmalade, chocolate, and chewing gum. All of them contain a large number of dyes, which themselves can be allergens. Sometimes sweeteners and dyes are found even in improperly prepared dried fruits.
• Honey. Honey is a fairly common allergen, so it should be consumed with caution. You need to be equally wary of nuts and mushrooms. These products contain many unique substances that the body rarely comes into contact with. The risk of developing an allergy to such substances is much higher.

It would seem that the diet of patients with allergic diseases should be quite meager. However, this is not entirely true. The above products are not strictly prohibited. Patients should just carefully monitor their condition after consuming them and not eat them often or in large quantities. It is recommended to follow a more strict diet with the complete exclusion of this number of products during exacerbations of allergies ( especially after angioedema, anaphylactic shock and other dangerous forms of the disease). This will be a kind of precautionary measure.

If you have a food allergy, you need to completely exclude those foods that contain a specific allergen. For example, if a patient is allergic to strawberries, they should not eat strawberry ice cream or drink fruit tea with strawberry leaves or flowers. You need to be very careful to avoid contact with even small amounts of the allergen. In this case, we are talking specifically about pathological sensitivity to a previously known substance. Modern treatments can help gradually get rid of this problem ( for example, using immunotherapy). But for preventive purposes, the diet should still be followed. More precise instructions regarding permitted products for a particular patient can only be given by an allergist after all the necessary tests have been carried out.

Do allergies happen during pregnancy?

Allergic reactions in pregnant women are quite common. In principle, allergies rarely appear for the first time after conception. Usually women already know about their problem and notify their doctor about it. With timely intervention, diagnosis and treatment of allergic reactions during pregnancy are completely safe for both mother and fetus. Moreover, if the mother is allergic to any drugs that are used to eliminate serious problems, treatment may well be continued. They will simply add additional medications to the course that eliminate the manifestations of such allergies. In each individual case, doctors determine separately how to manage the patient. There are no uniform standards due to the wide variety of forms of the disease and the varying conditions of patients.

In pregnant women, allergies can take the following forms:

• Bronchial asthma. This disease may be of an allergic nature. It usually occurs when an allergen is inhaled, but can also be a consequence of skin or food contact. The cause of the disease and the main problem is spasm of smooth muscles in the walls of the bronchioles ( small air passages in the lungs). Because of this, breathing difficulties arise, which in severe cases can result in the death of the patient. In case of pregnancy, prolonged breath holding is also dangerous for the fetus.
• Hives. Represents a skin allergic reaction. Most often it occurs in pregnant women in the last trimester. Itchy rashes appear on the stomach, less often on the limbs, which cause a lot of discomfort. This form of allergy is usually easily relieved with antihistamines and does not pose a serious threat to the mother or fetus.
• Angioedema ( Quincke's edema). It occurs mainly in women with a hereditary predisposition to this disease. Edema can be localized in almost any part of the body where there is a lot of subcutaneous tissue. The most dangerous swelling is in the upper respiratory tract, as it can lead to respiratory arrest and hypoxic damage to the fetus. In general, this form of allergy in pregnant women is quite rare.
• Rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis is a very common problem in pregnant women. This form is especially common in the 2nd – 3rd trimester. Rhinitis is caused by allergen contact with the nasal mucosa. As a result, swelling occurs, fluid begins to leak from the dilated capillaries, and nasal discharge appears. At the same time, breathing difficulties arise.

Thus, some forms of allergies in pregnant women can be dangerous for the fetus. That is why it is recommended to consult a doctor for medical help at the first manifestations of the disease. If the patient knows that she has an allergy, then it is possible to prescribe certain medications prophylactically to prevent an exacerbation of the disease. Of course, it is necessary to avoid contact with known allergens at all costs. If contact does occur, the focus is on adequate and prompt medical treatment.

Options for drug treatment of exacerbations in various forms of allergies in pregnant women

A very important point in the management of pregnant women with allergies is childbirth itself. The fact is that in order to successfully carry out this procedure ( or caesarean section, if planned in a particular case) you will need to administer a large number of drugs ( including anesthesia if necessary). Therefore, it is important to notify the anesthesiologist about previous use of anti-allergy medications. This will allow you to optimally select drugs and doses, eliminating the risk of adverse reactions and complications.

The most severe type of allergic reaction is anaphylaxis. It manifests itself as serious circulatory disorders. Due to the rapid expansion of capillaries, blood pressure decreases. At the same time, breathing problems may occur. This creates a serious threat to the fetus, since it does not receive enough blood and, accordingly, oxygen. According to statistics, anaphylaxis in pregnant women is most often caused by the administration of any pharmacological drug. This is quite natural, since at different stages of pregnancy a woman receives a significant amount of different medications.

Anaphylaxis in pregnant women is most often caused by the following medications:

• penicillin;
• oxytocin;
• fentanyl;
• dextran;
• cefotetan;
• phytomenadione.

Treatment of anaphylactic shock in pregnant women is practically no different from that in other patients. To restore blood flow and quickly eliminate the threat, epinephrine must be administered. It will narrow the capillaries, dilate the bronchioles and increase the pressure. If anaphylaxis occurs in the third trimester, the possibility of a cesarean section should be considered. This will avoid danger to the fetus.

Why are allergies dangerous?

In most cases, patients with allergies do not see their disease as particularly dangerous. This is due to the fact that severe cases of allergies that actually threaten the health or life of the patient are extremely rare. However, the danger should not be ignored. Experience has shown that people who have suffered from hay fever or eczema for years may develop anaphylactic shock ( the most severe type of allergic reaction) upon new contact with the same allergen. It is quite difficult to explain this phenomenon, since the mechanism of development of allergic reactions has not yet been fully studied.

• rash;
• skin redness;
• peeling of the skin;
• nasal discharge;
• burning in the eyes;
• redness of the eyes;
• dry eyes;
• tearfulness;
• sore throat;
• dry mouth;
• dry cough;
• sneezing.

All these symptoms in themselves do not pose a serious threat to the patient's health. They are associated with local destruction of mast cells, mastocytes and other cells involved in the development of an allergic reaction. A special mediator is released from them - histamine, which causes local damage to neighboring cells and corresponding symptoms. However, in severe cases, allergies also affect the functioning of the cardiovascular or respiratory system. Then the disease becomes much more serious.

The most dangerous forms of allergic reactions are:

• Bronchial asthma. Bronchial asthma is a disease in which the small bronchi in the lungs narrow. Often this occurs precisely after contact with allergens, if the patient has hypersensitivity. An asthma attack is a very serious and dangerous condition as it affects breathing. Air does not enter the lungs in sufficient quantities, and the person may suffocate.
• Angioedema ( Quincke's edema) . With this disease, the entry of allergens into the body causes swelling of the subcutaneous fatty tissue. In principle, swelling can develop in almost any part of the body, but most often it is localized on the face. A life-threatening form of Quincke's edema is localized near the windpipe. In this case, due to swelling, the airways will close, and the patient may die.
• Anaphylactic shock. This form of allergic reaction is considered the most dangerous, as various organs and systems are affected. The greatest significance in the development of shock is the sharp expansion of small capillaries and a drop in blood pressure. At the same time, breathing problems may occur. Anaphylactic shock often ends in the death of the patient.

In addition, allergies are dangerous due to bacterial complications. For example, with eczema or rhinitis ( inflammation in the nasal mucosa) local protective barriers weaken. Therefore, microbes that have entered the allergy-damaged cells at this moment receive favorable soil for reproduction and development. Allergic rhinitis can develop into sinusitis or sinusitis with the accumulation of pus in the maxillary sinuses. Skin manifestations of allergies can be complicated by purulent dermatitis. This course of the disease occurs especially often if the patient has itching. In the process of scratching, it further damages the skin and introduces new portions of microbes.

What to do if your child has allergies?

Allergic reactions in children, for a number of reasons, occur much more often than in adults. Most often we are talking about food allergies, but almost all forms of this disease can be found even in early childhood. Before starting treatment for a child with allergies, it is necessary to determine the specific allergen to which the patient’s body is sensitive. To do this, contact an allergist. In some cases, it turns out that the child does not have allergies, but is intolerant to some food. Such pathologies develop according to a different mechanism ( we are talking about a lack of certain enzymes), and their treatment is carried out by pediatricians and gastroenterologists. If an allergy is confirmed, treatment is prescribed taking into account all age-related characteristics.

A special approach to treating allergies in a child is necessary for the following reasons:

• young children are not able to complain about subjective symptoms ( pain, burning in the eyes, itching);
• A child’s immune system is different from the immune system of adults, so the risk of allergies to new foods is higher;
• Due to their curiosity, children often come into contact with various allergens in the house and on the street, so it is difficult to determine what exactly the child is allergic to;
• Some strong allergy suppressants can cause serious side effects in children.

In general, however, allergic reactions in children involve the same mechanisms as in adults. Therefore, priority should be given to the same drugs in appropriate dosages. The main criterion when calculating the dose in this case will be the child’s weight, and not his age.

Of the medications used in the treatment of allergies, preference is given to antihistamines. They block receptors for the main allergy mediator, histamine. As a result, this substance is released, but does not have a pathogenic effect on the tissue, so the symptoms of the disease disappear.

The most common antihistamines are:

• suprastin ( chloropyramine);
• tavegil ( clemastine);
• diphenhydramine ( diphenhydramine);
• diazolin ( mebhydrolin);
• fenkarol ( quifenadine hydrochloride);
• pipolfen ( promethazine);
• arolin ( loratadine).

These drugs are prescribed mainly for allergic reactions that do not threaten the child’s life. They gradually eliminate urticaria, dermatitis ( skin inflammation), itchy, watery eyes or sore throat caused by an allergic reaction. However, in case of serious allergic reactions that pose a threat to life, it is necessary to use other means with a stronger and faster effect.

In emergency situations ( Quincke's edema, anaphylactic shock, bronchial asthma attack) urgent administration of corticosteroids is necessary ( prednisolone, beclomethasone, etc.). Drugs in this group have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. The effect of their use comes much faster. Also, to maintain the functioning of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, it is necessary to administer adrenaline or its analogues ( epinephrine). This will dilate the bronchi and restore breathing during an asthma attack, and increase blood pressure ( important for anaphylactic shock).

With any allergies in children, it is important to remember that the child’s body is more sensitive in many ways than an adult. Therefore, even ordinary manifestations of allergies cannot be ignored ( watery eyes, sneezing, rash). You should immediately consult a doctor who will confirm the diagnosis, give appropriate preventive recommendations and determine the appropriate course of treatment. Self-medication is always dangerous. The growing body's response to an allergen can change with age, and the risk of developing dangerous forms of allergy if not treated correctly is very high.

What are some folk remedies for allergies?

Folk remedies for allergies should be selected depending on the location of the symptoms of this disease. There are a number of medicinal plants that can partly affect the immune system as a whole, reducing the symptoms of allergies. Another group of agents can interrupt the pathological process at the local level. These include ointments and compresses for skin manifestations.

Of the folk remedies that affect the immune system as a whole, the following are most often used:

• Mumiyo. 1 g mummy dissolves in 1 liter of hot water ( high-quality product dissolves even in warm water quickly and without sediment). The solution is cooled to room temperature ( 1 – 1.5 hours) and taken orally once a day. It is advisable to take the product in the first hour after waking up. The course lasts 2 – 3 weeks. Single dose for adults – 100 ml. Shilajit solution can also be used to treat allergies in children. Then the dose is reduced to 50 - 70 ml ( depending on body weight). This remedy is not recommended for children under one year of age.
• Peppermint. 10 g of dry peppermint leaves are poured with half a glass of boiling water. Infusion lasts 30 - 40 minutes in a dark place. The product is taken three times a day, 1 tablespoon for several weeks ( if the allergy does not go away for a long time).
• Calendula officinalis. 10 g of dried flowers are poured into a glass of boiling water. Infusion lasts 60 – 90 minutes. The infusion is taken twice a day, 1 tablespoon.
• Swamp duckweed. The plant is collected, washed well, dried and ground into a fine powder. This powder should be taken 1 teaspoon three times a day, washed down with plenty of boiled water ( 1 – 2 glasses).
• Dandelion root. Freshly picked dandelion roots are well scalded with boiling water and ground ( or rub) into a homogeneous paste. Pour 1 tablespoon of this slurry into 1 glass of boiling water and mix thoroughly. The mixture is drunk, shaking before use, 1 glass per day in three doses ( one third of a glass morning, afternoon and evening). The course can last 1 – 2 months if necessary.
• Celery root. 2 tablespoons of crushed root should be poured into 200 ml of cold water ( approximately 4 - 8 degrees, temperature in the refrigerator). Infusion lasts 2 – 3 hours. During this period, you should avoid direct sunlight on the infusion. After this, the infusion is taken 50–100 ml three times a day, half an hour before meals.

The above remedies are not always effective. The fact is that there are several different types of allergic reactions. There is no universal remedy that suppresses all these types. Therefore, you should try several treatment regimens to determine the most effective remedy.

As a rule, these recipes relieve symptoms such as allergic rhinitis ( for allergies to pollen), conjunctivitis ( inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes), asthma attacks. For skin manifestations of allergies, preference should be given to local treatment methods. The most common are compresses, lotions and baths based on medicinal plants.

For skin manifestations of allergies, the following folk remedies best help:

• Dill juice. The juice is best squeezed from young shoots ( in the old ones there is less of it, and more dill will be needed). After squeezing out approximately 1 - 2 tablespoons of juice, they are diluted with water in a ratio of 1 to 2. Gauze is moistened in the resulting mixture, which is then used as a compress. You need to do it 1 - 2 times a day for 10 - 15 minutes.
• Mumiyo. Shilajit can also be used as a lotion for skin allergies. It is diluted in a concentration of 1 to 100 ( 1 g of substance per 100 g of warm water). Clean gauze or a handkerchief is generously moistened with the solution and the affected area of ​​skin is covered. The procedure is done once a day, and it lasts until the compress begins to dry out. The course of treatment lasts 15–20 procedures.
• Pansies. Prepare a concentrated infusion of 5 - 6 tablespoons of dried flowers and 1 liter of boiling water. Infusion lasts 2 – 3 hours. After this, the mixture is shaken, the petals are filtered and poured into a warm bath. Baths should be taken every 1 to 2 days for several weeks.
• Nettle. Mash freshly picked nettle flowers into a paste and pour boiling water over them ( 2 – 3 tablespoons per glass of water). When the infusion has cooled to room temperature, moisten gauze in it and apply lotions to the area of ​​allergic eczema, itching or rash.
• Hop cones. A quarter cup of crushed green hop cones is poured with a glass of boiling water. The resulting mixture is mixed well and left for at least 2 hours. After this, gauze is soaked in the infusion and compresses are applied to the affected area. The procedure is repeated twice a day.

The use of these remedies in many patients gradually eliminates itching, redness of the skin, and eczema. On average, for a noticeable effect you need to carry out 3–4 procedures, and then until the end of the course the goal is to consolidate the result. However, treatment with folk remedies for allergies has a number of tangible disadvantages. It is because of them that self-medication can be dangerous or ineffective.

The disadvantages of treating allergies with folk remedies are:

• Nonspecific action of herbs. Not a single medicinal plant can compare in strength and speed of effect with modern pharmacological drugs. Therefore, treatment with folk remedies, as a rule, lasts longer, and the chances of success are less.
• Risk of new allergic reactions. A person who is allergic to something is usually predisposed to other allergies due to the way the immune system works. Therefore, treatment with folk remedies can lead to contact with new allergens that the patient’s body cannot tolerate. Then the manifestations of allergies will only worsen.
• Masking symptoms. Many of the above folk remedies do not affect the mechanism of allergy development, but only its external manifestations. Thus, the state of health when taking them can only improve externally.

Based on all this, we can conclude that folk remedies are not the best choice in the fight against allergies. With this disease, it is advisable to consult a doctor to determine the specific allergen that the body cannot tolerate. After this, at the request of the patient, the specialist himself can recommend any remedies based on the action of medicinal herbs, which are the safest in this particular case.

Is there a human allergy?

In the classical sense, an allergy is an acute response of the immune system to the body’s contact with any foreign substance. In humans, as a certain biological species, the structure of tissues is very similar. Therefore, there cannot be allergic reactions to the hair, saliva, tears and other biological components of another person. The immune system simply will not detect the foreign material, and the allergic reaction will not start. However, in medical practice, allergies in very sensitive patients may regularly appear when communicating with the same person. However, this has a slightly different explanation.

Each person comes into contact with a very large number of potential allergens. At the same time, the carrier himself does not suspect that he is a carrier of allergens, since his body does not have increased sensitivity to these components. However, for a patient with an allergy, even a tiny amount of a foreign substance is enough to cause severe symptoms of the disease. Most often, such cases are mistaken for “human allergies.” The patient cannot figure out what exactly he is allergic to, and therefore blames the carrier.

Most often, sensitivity to the following allergens is mistaken for human allergies:

• Cosmetics. Cosmetics ( even on a natural basis) are strong potential allergens. Contact with lipstick, inhalation of perfume, or tiny particles of powder can be taken as an allergy to a person. Of course, during everyday contact these substances enter the environment in negligible quantities. But the problem is that for people with specific hypersensitivity, even this is enough.
• Industrial dust. Some people who work in manufacturing are carriers of specific allergens. The smallest particles of dust settle on the skin, clothes, linger in the hair, and are inhaled by the lungs. After work, a person, coming into contact with his friends, can transfer dust particles to them. If you are allergic to its components, it may cause a rash, redness of the skin, watery eyes and other typical symptoms.
• Animal fur. The problem of “human allergies” is well known to people with allergies to pets ( cats or dogs). Owners usually have a small amount of their pet's hair or saliva on their clothes. If you are allergic ( person with allergies) comes into contact with the owner, a small amount of the allergen may come into contact with him.
• Medicines. Not many people think about what happens in the human body after taking any medications. Having fulfilled their therapeutic function, they are usually metabolized by the body ( bind or split) and are output. They are mainly excreted in urine or feces. But a certain amount of components can be released during breathing, with sweat, tears, sperm or secretions of the vaginal glands. Then contact with these biological fluids is dangerous for a person with an allergy to the medications used. In these cases, it is very difficult to detect the allergen. It is misleading if the patient believes that the rash occurred after, say, contact with the sweat of another person. Indeed, it is easier to mistake this for a human allergy than to trace the path of a specific allergen.

There are other options when a very specific person is a carrier of a specific allergen. Even an allergist is not always able to understand the situation. In these cases, it is important to temporarily stop contact with the “suspect” ( so as not to provoke new manifestations of the disease) and still contact a specialist. An extensive skin test with a large number of different allergens usually helps to identify what exactly the patient is sensitive to. After this, you need to talk in detail with the potential carrier to find out where the allergen could have come from. Changing your perfume or stopping any medications usually solves the problem of “human allergies.”

In rare cases, human allergies can occur in some mental disorders. Then symptoms such as coughing, sneezing or watery eyes are not caused by contact with any allergen, but by a certain “psychological incompatibility.” At the same time, manifestations of the disease sometimes appear even when a person is mentioned, when physical contact with him is excluded. In these cases, we are not talking about allergies, but about mental disorders.

Is there an allergy to alcohol?

There is a common misconception that some people are allergic to alcohol. This is not entirely true, since ethyl alcohol itself, which is meant by alcohol, has a very simple molecular structure and practically cannot become an allergen. Thus, allergies to alcohol, as such, practically do not exist. However, cases of allergies to alcoholic beverages are not uncommon. However, here it is not ethyl alcohol that acts as an allergen, but other substances.

Typically, an allergic reaction to alcoholic beverages is explained as follows:

• Ethyl alcohol is an excellent solvent. Many substances that are insoluble in water dissolve easily and without residue in alcohol. Therefore, any alcoholic drink contains a very large amount of dissolved substances.
• A small amount of allergen sufficient to trigger a reaction. The amount of allergen is not critical for the development of an allergic reaction. In other words, even negligible impurities of any substance in alcohol can cause an allergy. Of course, the more allergen enters the body, the stronger and faster the reaction will appear. But in practice, even very small doses of an allergen sometimes cause anaphylactic shock - the most severe form of an allergic reaction that threatens the patient’s life.
• Low quality control. High-quality alcoholic products always indicate the composition of the drink and the number of ingredients. However, currently the production and sale of alcohol is a very profitable business. Therefore, a significant proportion of products on the market may contain some kind of impurity that is not listed on the label. A person may be allergic to these unknown components. Then it is very difficult to determine the allergen. Alcoholic drinks produced at home are even more dangerous for people with allergies, since the composition is simply not carefully controlled.
• Incorrect storage conditions. As mentioned above, alcohol is a good solvent, and only a small amount of the substance is needed to develop an allergy. If an alcoholic drink is stored incorrectly for a long time ( Usually we are talking about plastic bottles), some components of the material from which the container is made may get into it. Few buyers know that plastic packaging also has an expiration date and must also be certified. Low-quality plastic or plastic that has expired begins to gradually deteriorate, and complex chemical compounds gradually pass into the contents of the vessel in the form of a solution.
• Drinking alcohol internally. Allergies can occur through various types of contact with an allergen. When it comes to drinking alcoholic beverages, the allergen enters the gastrointestinal tract. This contributes to the development of a more intense and faster allergic reaction than if the allergen came into contact with, say, the skin.

In recent years, cases of allergies to various alcoholic beverages have become more frequent. People with hereditary predisposition or allergies to other substances should be very careful when choosing drinks. It is advisable to exclude those products that contain various natural flavors or additives. As a rule, components such as almonds, some fruits, and barley gluten in beer are strong potential allergens.

Patients may experience the following manifestations of allergies to alcoholic beverages:

• attack of bronchial asthma;
• redness of the skin ( spots);
• hives;
• angioedema ( Quincke's edema);
• anaphylactic shock;
• eczema.

Some doctors note that alcohol may not itself lead to allergic reactions, but rather stimulate their occurrence. According to one theory, in a number of patients, after drinking alcohol, the permeability of the intestinal walls increases. Because of this, more microbes can enter the blood ( or their components), which normally inhabit the human intestine. These microbial components themselves have a certain allergenic potential.

You should consult a doctor if there are any signs of an allergic reaction after drinking alcohol. The fact is that in this case we are often talking about a bad habit ( alcoholism), which is a drug problem, and about allergies that can pose a threat to the health and life of the patient. Therefore, the allergist should, if possible, identify the specific allergen and notify the patient of his sensitivity to this component. The patient will definitely be advised to undergo a course of treatment for alcoholism ( if such a problem exists). Even if in the future he drinks drinks that do not contain the detected allergen, the very influence of alcohol will only aggravate the situation, further disrupting the functioning of the immune system.

Can you die from allergies?

Allergic reactions are an increased response of the immune system to contact with any foreign body. This activates a number of different cells in the human body. It is very difficult to predict the manifestations of an allergic reaction in advance. Often they come down to fairly “harmless” local symptoms. However, in some cases, the increased immune response can affect vital systems of the body. In these cases, there is a risk of death of the patient.

Most often, allergies manifest themselves with the following symptoms:

• runny nose with “watery” nasal discharge;
• the appearance of spots or rashes on the skin;
• dry cough;
• inflammation of the mucous membranes.

All these manifestations can seriously worsen the patient’s quality of life, but they are not life-threatening. In this case, there is a local release from the cells of a special substance - histamine ( as well as a number of other, less active substances). They cause local expansion of capillaries, increased permeability of their walls, spasm of smooth muscles and other pathological reactions.

In some patients the reaction is more severe. Biological mediators released during allergies disrupt the functioning of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Symptoms typical of ordinary allergies simply do not have time to develop, as much more dangerous disorders come to the fore. This condition is called anaphylactic shock or anaphylaxis.

Anaphylactic shock is the most severe form of allergy and without special treatment can lead to the death of the patient within 10 to 15 minutes. According to statistics, the probability of death without first aid reaches 15–20%. Death during anaphylactic shock occurs due to the rapid expansion of capillaries, a drop in blood pressure, and, as a result, a cessation of oxygen supply to tissues. In addition, a spasm of the smooth muscles of the bronchi often occurs, due to which the airways narrow and the patient practically stops breathing.

The main distinguishing features of anaphylactic shock from ordinary allergies are:

• rapid spread of redness or swelling at the site of contact with the allergen;
• breathing problems ( noisy breathing, shortness of breath);
• drop in blood pressure ( disappearance of pulse);
• loss of consciousness;
• sharp paleness of the skin, sometimes blueness of the fingertips.

All these symptoms are not typical for a local allergic reaction. If possible, the patient is given assistance on the spot ( if necessary medications are available) or urgently call an ambulance for hospitalization. Otherwise, anaphylactic shock can be fatal.

Another dangerous form of allergy is Quincke's edema. With it, the same mechanisms lead to rapidly increasing swelling of the subcutaneous tissue. Swelling may appear in various parts of the body ( on eyelids, lips, genitals). This reaction in rare cases can also lead to the death of the patient. This happens mainly in children when the swelling spreads to the mucous membrane of the larynx. The swollen mucous membrane closes the airway, and the patient simply suffocates.

Are there any allergies to medications?

Allergic reactions to medications are a fairly common problem in the modern world. Almost 10% of all side effects from various drugs are allergic in nature. This high frequency is also facilitated by the fact that nowadays people receive a large amount of pharmacological products from childhood. Because of this, there is a higher chance that the body will develop pathological sensitivity to certain components of the drugs.

Allergies to medications are considered a very dangerous phenomenon. It often takes serious forms ( Quincke's edema, anaphylaxis), threatening the patient's life. If contact occurs at home, there is a risk of death. In medical institutions, the risk is less, since any department must have a special first aid kit for anaphylactic shock.


The danger of allergies to medications is due to the following reasons:

• many medications are administered intravenously in large quantities;
• modern medications have a high-molecular structure and a strong potential for provoking allergic reactions;
• patients who are allergic to a certain drug are already sick ( because the drug is prescribed for a disease), therefore they suffer an allergic reaction even more severely;
• frequency of anaphylactic shock ( the most dangerous form of allergy) higher than with allergies to other substances;
• many doctors neglect special tests for drug tolerance and immediately administer large doses of drugs to patients;
• It can be difficult to neutralize the effect of some drugs and completely remove them from the body in a short period of time;
• Much of today's pharmaceutical products come from the so-called black market and may therefore contain various impurities ( which cause allergic reactions);
• It is difficult to immediately diagnose an allergy to a drug, since it can give other side effects of a non-allergic nature;
• sometimes patients are forced to take medications to which they are allergic, simply because there are no effective analogues against the underlying disease.

According to modern research, it is believed that the risk of developing hypersensitivity to a particular drug after its first use averages 2 – 3%. However, it is not the same for different pharmacological groups. The fact is that some medications contain natural components or high molecular weight compounds. They have a higher potential to trigger allergies. Other drugs have a relatively simple chemical composition. This makes them safer.
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Many other drugs can also cause allergic reactions, but much less frequently. Sometimes even drugs with low molecular weight can cause allergies due to the impurities they contain.

Manifestations of drug allergies can be very diverse. Immediate reactions include anaphylactic shock, acute urticaria or angioedema ( Quincke's edema), which may appear within the first minutes after administration of the drug. Within 3 days after contact, so-called accelerated reactions may occur. Their manifestations range from a minor rash or spots on the body to a fever with severe general condition. The latter is more common if the drug is taken regularly. There are also cases of delayed reactions that develop only a few days after administration of the drug.

The severity of allergy symptoms to medications is very difficult to predict. It is also almost impossible to predict in advance a patient's sensitivity to a particular drug. The fact is that some drugs do not detect their allergic activity in reactions in vitro with the patient’s blood. Intradermal tests can also be false negative. This is due to the influence of many different factors ( both external and internal).

The likelihood of an allergy and the severity of its manifestations may depend on the following factors:

• patient's age;
• patient's gender;
• genetic factors ( hereditary predisposition to allergies in general);
• concomitant diseases;
• social factors ( place of work - doctors or pharmacists are more likely to come into contact with drugs, and the likelihood of developing specific sensitivities is higher);
• simultaneous use of several medications;
• duration of first contact with a certain medication;
• quality of medicine ( largely depends on the manufacturer);
• shelf life of the drug;
• method of drug administration ( on the skin, subcutaneously, orally, intramuscularly, intravenously);
• drug dose ( does not play a decisive role);
• metabolism of the drug in the body ( how quickly and by what organs it is normally excreted).

The best way to avoid drug allergies is good health. The less sick a person is, the less often he comes into contact with various medications, and the less likely he is to develop allergies. Additionally, before using a potentially dangerous drug ( especially serum and other drugs containing complete antigens) a special skin test is performed, which most often allows one to suspect an allergy. Small doses are administered fractionally intradermally and subcutaneously. In case of hypersensitivity, the patient will experience severe swelling, pain, and redness at the injection site. If the patient knows that he is allergic to certain drugs, he must notify the doctor about this before starting treatment. Sometimes patients, not hearing a familiar name, are not worried about this. However, there are many analogues of drugs with different trade names. They can cause serious allergic reactions. Only a qualified doctor or pharmacist can figure out which drugs are best to prescribe.

Are there allergies to water, air, sun?

Allergic reactions by their nature are a consequence of activation of the immune system. They are triggered by contact of certain substances ( allergens) with specific receptors in the skin, mucous membranes or blood ( depending on how the allergen entered the body). Therefore, there cannot be an allergic reaction to the sun, for example. Sunlight is a stream of waves of a certain spectrum and is not associated with the transfer of matter. We can talk about allergic reactions to water or air conditionally. The fact is that allergens, as a rule, are substances that are quite complex in their chemical composition. Molecules of water or gases from the atmospheric air cannot cause allergic reactions. However, both air and water usually contain a large number of different impurities, which cause allergic reactions.

Over the past decades, several reports have been made of cases of allergies specifically to water molecules. However, most experts question their reliability. Perhaps the researchers simply could not isolate the impurity that causes the allergy. Be that as it may, there are very few such cases, so there is still no reliable information on them. More often we are talking about allergies to substances dissolved in water. In city water supplies this is usually chlorine or its compounds. The composition of well, spring, or river water depends on the specific geographic area. There are, for example, areas with a high content of fluorine and other chemical elements. People who are allergic to these substances will experience symptoms of illness after contact with ordinary water. At the same time, contact with water in other geographical areas will not cause such a reaction.

An allergy to impurities in water usually manifests itself with the following symptoms:

• dry skin;
• peeling of the skin;
• dermatitis ( skin inflammation);
• the appearance of red spots on the skin;
• the appearance of a rash or blisters;
• digestive disorders ( if the water was drunk);
• swelling of the mucous membrane of the mouth and pharynx ( extremely rare).

An allergy to air is simply impossible, since it is necessary for breathing and a person with such a disease would not survive. In this case we are talking about any specific air or the impurities contained in it. It is their exposure that usually causes allergic reactions. Additionally, some people are very sensitive to dry or cold air. Exposure to it can cause allergy-like symptoms in them.

Allergic reactions to air are usually explained by the following mechanisms:

• Impurities in the air. Gases, dust, pollen or other substances that are often present in the air are the most common cause of such allergies. They get on the mucous membrane of the nose, larynx, respiratory tract, skin, and mucous membrane of the eyes. Most often, the patient's eyes become red and watery, a cough, sore throat, and nasal discharge appear. In severe cases, there is also swelling of the mucous membrane of the larynx and an attack of bronchial asthma.
• Dry air. Dry air cannot cause an allergic reaction in the generally accepted sense. Most often, such air simply causes dryness and irritation of the mucous membranes of the throat, nose, and eyes. The fact is that normally ( at humidity 60 – 80%) cells of the mucous membranes secrete special substances that protect tissues from the effects of harmful impurities in the air. Due to dry air, these substances are released in smaller quantities, and irritation occurs. It can also manifest itself as a cough and sore throat. Patients often complain of dry eyes, a feeling of a foreign body in the eye, and redness.
• Cold air. Allergies to cold air exist, although there is no specific allergen that triggers the reaction. It’s just that in some people, exposure to cold air causes the release of histamine from special cells in the tissues. This substance is the main mediator in allergic reactions and causes all the symptoms of the disease. Allergy to cold air is a very rare disease. People suffering from it usually have allergies to other substances. Often they also have some kind of hormonal, nervous or infectious diseases. In other words, there are third-party factors that explain such a non-standard reaction of the body to cold.

Sun allergy is often called photodermatitis. With it, the patient's skin is too sensitive to the sun's rays, so various pathological changes appear. By and large, talking specifically about an allergic reaction in this case is not entirely correct due to the absence of an allergen. But histamine can be released under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, and the symptoms of photodermatitis sometimes closely resemble the skin manifestations of allergies.

Increased sensitivity to sunlight may manifest itself in the following ways:

• the appearance of a rash;
• rapid redness of the skin;
• thickening of the skin ( its coarsening, roughness);
• peeling;
• rapid appearance of pigmentation ( tan, which is usually unevenly distributed in patches).

Such reactions to sunlight usually occur in people with serious congenital diseases ( then this is an individual feature of the body due to a lack or excess of any cells or substances). Photodermatitis can also appear in people with diseases of the endocrine or immune system.

Thus, allergies to water, air or sunlight, by and large, do not exist. More precisely, exposure to these factors under certain conditions can cause symptoms similar to allergies. However, these manifestations do not cause severe attacks of asthma, anaphylactic shock, Quincke's edema and other life-threatening situations. If there is a severe allergic reaction to water or air, it is most likely due to the impurities they contain.

Are allergies inherited?

It is currently believed that the characteristics of the immune system that predispose to the development of allergic reactions are genetically determined. This means that certain people have special proteins, receptors or other molecules ( more precisely - an excess of certain cells or molecules), responsible for the development of immune reactions. Like all substances in the body, these molecules are a product of the implementation of genetic information from chromosomes. Thus, a certain predisposition to allergies can indeed be inherited.

Numerous studies conducted around the world show in practice the importance of hereditary factors. Parents who are allergic to anything have a very high chance of having a child with similar immune system characteristics. However, it should be noted that the correspondence of allergens is not always observed. In other words, both parents and children will suffer from allergies, but one of the parents may have it, for example, to pollen, and the child may have it to milk proteins. Hereditary transmission of hypersensitivity to any one substance over several generations is quite rare. This is because in addition to genetic predisposition, other factors also play a significant role.

The following factors may predispose to the development of allergies:

• artificial ( not breastfeeding) feeding in childhood;
• early contact in childhood with strong allergens;
• frequent contact with strong chemical irritants ( strong detergents, industrial toxins, etc.);
• life in developed countries ( It has been statistically shown that natives of third world countries are significantly less likely to suffer from allergies and autoimmune diseases);
• the presence of endocrine diseases.

Under the influence of these external factors, allergies can appear even in people who do not have a hereditary predisposition. In people with congenital defects of the immune system, they will lead to more severe and frequent manifestations of the disease.

Despite the fact that the occurrence of allergies is influenced by hereditary factors, it is almost impossible to predict it in advance. Often parents with allergies give birth to children without this disease. Currently, there are no special genetic tests that can determine whether the disease is inherited. However, there are recommendations prescribing what to do in case of allergies in a child.

If a child shows signs of an allergy to something, and his parents also suffer from this disease, the situation should be approached with the utmost seriousness. The fact is that a child can be hypersensitive to a number of different substances. In addition, there is a risk of an extremely strong immune system response called anaphylactic shock, which is life-threatening. Therefore, at the first suspicion of an allergy, you should consult an allergist. He can perform specific tests on the most common allergens. This will allow you to promptly identify the child’s hypersensitivity to certain substances and avoid contact with them in the future.

Allergy is a disease that affects almost the entire body to one degree or another.

This happens because the cells involved in the formation of the immune response are located in different tissues.

Therefore, how exactly the disease will manifest itself depends on many factors.

Signs of an allergy are influenced by the condition of the person himself, the type of protein that caused the pathological reaction, and the method of its effect on the body (inhalation, contact or food).

Skin manifestations are noted in almost a quarter of patients.

These diseases are called allergic dermatoses, this group includes:

• atopic dermatitis, including neurodermatitis;
• contact dermatitis;
• Quincke's edema;
• skin lesions associated with the use of certain medications.

Epidermal signs of allergy can be the result of exposure to both endogenous causes and external factors, for example, sun exposure, high or, conversely, low ambient temperature, mechanical pressure, friction, etc. The clinical manifestations of the pathology are also different. For some it may be intense skin itching, for others it may be a feeling of skin tightness, pain and burning.

However, regardless of the etiology, all allergic dermatoses are accompanied by sleep disorders, disturbances in general condition, decreased or complete loss of performance, which significantly affects the quality of life.

Atopic dermatitis

As a rule, this disease occurs in children at an early age. The appearance of symptoms of pathology is primarily due to hereditary predisposition. During atopic dermatitis, several periods are distinguished: infant (up to 2 years), childhood (from 2 to 13 years), adolescence and adult (from 13 years and older). Moreover, each stage has its own distinctive signs of allergies.

According to the prevalence of the process, the disease can be limitedly localized, when the elbow and popliteal folds, skin of the hands, and face are affected. The area of ​​the rash does not exceed 10%. With widespread atopic dermatitis, the pathological process involves the chest, back, neck and remaining skin of the extremities. The area of ​​damage is from 10 to 50% of the epidermal cover. In the diffuse form of the disease, symptoms appear on more than half of the body.

Clinical symptoms of atopic dermatitis depend on age stages. In the first, infantile period, the development of hyperemia, swelling and crust formation is noted. Lesions are usually localized on the face and on the outer surface of the legs. Over time, it spreads to the flexion and extension areas of the limbs, mainly in the folds of large joints (knees and elbows), as well as in the wrist and neck.

In the second, childhood period, the signs of allergy are not so acute, but become chronic. In the elbow and popliteal folds, on the back of the neck, on the bend of the ankle and wrist joints, in the area behind the ear, erythema (usually with a bluish tint), papules, areas of peeling and infiltration, covered with cracks, form. Some children develop an additional eyelid fold.

In the third period, the papules merge into foci of infiltration of cyanotic color. Selectivity of rashes in the upper half of the torso, face, neck and arms is characteristic.

To treat this type of dermatitis, doctors often prescribe the drug Dupilumab.

Hives

Signs of allergies of this origin can make themselves felt in both adults and children. The main clinical manifestation of urticaria is the formation of blisters due to increased vascular permeability. Usually the formation of papules is accompanied by:

• skin itching, less often - burning;
• limited swelling;
• redness

Unlike atopic dermatitis, similar symptoms can appear on any area of ​​the skin. In approximately half of the cases, urticaria is accompanied by Quincke's edema.

Allergic contact dermatitis

The disease occurs in the form of the formation of small itchy blisters with areas of redness at the site of direct contact with allergens. At the initial stage of pathology, signs of allergy appear at high concentrations, but over time, after the end of the sensitization period, similar symptoms develop even with minimal contact with the irritant.

When an allergen comes into contact with the mucous membrane of the upper and lower respiratory tract, specific symptoms from the respiratory tract occur, associated with increased activity of mucosal epithelial cells. In this case, the organs of vision are usually affected - allergic conjunctivitis occurs.

The reasons for such phenomena are:

• inhalation of pollen from certain plants (hay fever), which occurs more often in spring and summer;
• excessive accumulation of dust;
• increased sensitivity of the immune system to fungal spores (for example, mold);
• allergic reaction to the fur of cats, dogs and other pets, bird feathers, the smell of fish food;
• inhalation of tobacco smoke and other toxic fumes.

It can occur year-round or at certain times of the year, which is combined with the flowering period of plant allergens (loboda, nettle, ragweed, alder, etc.). The main signs of this type of allergy are manifested in the form of itching, burning and tickling in the nose, copious mucus secretion and associated nasal breathing disturbance. This picture is usually accompanied by a neurosis-like syndrome: tearfulness, insomnia, irritability. Patients often complain of dizziness, mild nausea and headache.

Bronchial asthma

The main causes of its occurrence are long-term exposure to plant and animal allergens and other substances of organic and inorganic origin. The main signs of allergies associated with bronchial asthma are severe coughing attacks, accompanied by suffocation and wheezing.

They can occur spontaneously, but more often at night. With increased sensitivity to inhaled irritants, exacerbation of the disease is preceded by manifestations of allergic rhinitis or conjunctivitis. The frequency of attacks largely depends on the severity of bronchial asthma. To treat this disease, drugs based on mepolizumab are used.

The disease occurs when the pulmonary alveoli become inflamed without involving bronchial tissue in the pathological process. The main cause of the pathology is inhalation of complex fine dust containing particles of insects, plants, bacteria, sawdust, wool, animal excrement and skin, and spores of saprophytic fungi.

Signs of allergies depend on the severity of the disease. In the acute form of the pathology, in the afternoon the body temperature rises and a paroxysmal cough occurs, accompanied by wheezing in the lungs.

After a few days, the bronchi are also involved in the pathological process, resulting in symptoms reminiscent of the clinical picture of pneumonia or bronchitis.

The subacute course of the disease is accompanied by the occurrence of shortness of breath against the background of strong physical exertion a few days after contact with the allergen. The chronic form of the pathology occurs only with short episodes of shortness of breath, which does not correspond to the intensity of muscle training.

Allergic laryngitis

The main signs of allergies affecting the mucous membrane of the larynx are associated with attacks of barking, suffocating cough. It is accompanied by a sore, irritated and sore throat that gets worse when swallowing. Hoarse shortness of breath often appears. Allergic laryngitis is most dangerous for children, since swelling of the mucous membrane at an early age prevents normal breathing.

Very often, manifestations from the respiratory tract are accompanied by allergic conjunctivitis. Its main symptoms are lacrimation, photophobia, and severe hyperemia of the inner side of the lower eyelid. A person is constantly bothered by the sensation of a foreign body in the eye and the associated itching. Often, allergic conjunctivitis is complicated by an associated bacterial infection due to the ingress of pathogenic microorganisms from the hands.

Food allergies are comparable in prevalence to neurodermatoses and manifestations of the respiratory system. Its main cause is the contact of an irritant with the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract, in other words, when consuming certain foods.

And it is precisely the signs associated with the characteristics of the diet that in most cases are systemic in nature and affect various internal organs and even the vascular wall. Most often, such manifestations are caused by cow's milk protein, especially at an early age as part of various formulas for artificial feeding, eggs, chocolate, citrus fruits and other products.

Typically, food allergies manifest themselves in the form of urticaria with a predominant localization in the face, abdomen, inner surface of the limbs, and buttocks. Manifestations from the gastrointestinal tract in the form of dyspeptic syndrome are often noted. In severe cases, signs of allergy affect the inner wall of blood vessels, which is accompanied by hemodynamic disturbances and pain impulses in the muscles and joints.

But the most severe and life-threatening symptoms of a pathological reaction are Quincke's edema and anaphylactic shock. In the vast majority of cases, Quincke's edema (also called angioedema) develops against the background of urticaria, and the reasons for its appearance are similar. However, unlike allergic dermatitis, it practically does not cause external manifestations on the part of the epidermis.

There is a sharp swelling of the mucous membranes in the mouth, neck and face. Due to the narrowing of the lumen of the respiratory tract, respiratory function sharply deteriorates, which can cause fainting and even death. Very rarely, Quincke's edema affects the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, which is accompanied by pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. And only in isolated cases does the pathology affect the meninges; this is extremely dangerous and is fraught with irreversible changes in the cells of the central nervous system.

Anaphylactic shock is an immediate type of allergic reaction. Its symptoms develop within a few minutes after contact with the irritant. Blood pressure drops sharply, diffuse pallor with a bluish tint appears.

Anaphylactic shock can occur in this way:

• with predominant damage to the skin in the form of diffuse urticaria and swelling;
• with depression of the nervous system, in which case headaches, hot flashes, convulsions, involuntary release of urine and feces, fainting are noted;
• with an effect on the respiratory system, due to swelling of the mucous membrane, coughing attacks occur, accompanied by suffocation, in general the clinical picture resembles the signs of allergies in bronchial asthma;
• with damage to the heart muscle, in which case symptoms of acute edema and myocardial infarction occur.

Signs of allergies in adults and children, clinical types of the disease

Doctors say that age does not affect the severity of the clinical manifestations of an allergic reaction. Moreover, some forms of the disease are easier in children.

Ultimately, the intensity of the symptoms of the pathology depends on the genetically determined characteristics of the human immune system.

Signs of allergies in children and adults also significantly affect the duration of treatment. Hypersensitivity to pet hair particles is usually accompanied by nasal, eye and skin symptoms.

The exact lesions depend on the location of the allergen contact; in other words, when the irritant is inhaled, rhinorrhea, swelling of the epithelium of the nose and mouth, lacrimation, coughing and sneezing are noted. Contact dermatitis is characterized by the appearance of a rash when you touch your pet.

Allergic reaction to cold, is accompanied by the appearance of papules, itching and redness of exposed skin areas, and signs of allergy in adults and children can also develop upon contact with cold water, snow, ice.

Food allergies. This form of the disease is characterized by a clear connection between the consumption of certain foods and the development of symptoms. Usually itchy rashes appear on the skin; much less often (in particular, against the background of pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract) systemic reactions appear in the form of disturbances in the digestive processes.

Contact form of the disease in response to chemical and household irritants. Typically, the symptoms of children are limited to a local skin reaction upon direct contact with detergents and cleaning agents, various substances during professional activities. A characteristic rash occurs, often accompanied by severe pain, hyperemia, and dry skin.

Drug allergy belongs to the most severe forms of the disease, as it is often unpredictable. Thus, the most dangerous in terms of clinical manifestations is intravenous administration of the drug. However, an immune response can also occur when the drug is used intramuscularly, as well as when it is applied topically or taken in tablet form, but in this case the signs of allergy are not so severe. The appearance of urticaria, angioedema, and contact dermatitis is characteristic. Sometimes diffuse damage to the skin is noted with the formation of areas of necrosis, metabolic disorders, fluctuations in blood pressure, and changes in heart rate.

For allergic reaction to alcohol Characteristic manifestations typical of food hypersensitivity are rashes, swelling, coughing and asthma attacks. According to doctors, similar signs of allergies in adults appear in response to exposure to alcohol.

Pathological reaction to sweets and flour products may be caused by gluten, which is part of wheat or rye flour. Sometimes similar symptoms occur with increased sensitivity to mold, which forms when food is stored improperly. Signs of an allergy in children to flour products usually appear at an early age and are of a “classic” nature for a food reaction (rashes, diarrhea, discomfort in the stomach and intestines).

Allergies: signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention

Regardless of the cause of the pathological activity of the body, doctors prescribe tests to assess the general condition of the immune system. The concentration of immunoglobulins, the reaction of mast cells, basophils and eosinophils in response to contact with the irritant are determined. A comprehensive examination of the person is also necessary to exclude possible concomitant pathologies.

Signs and symptoms of allergy may overlap with other systemic diseases, so it must be definitively confirmed before further investigation can be carried out. Specific tests are used to assess the body's response to a particular stimulus.

Roughly speaking, the specific antigen is administered subcutaneously, sublingually or intranasally. Sometimes a food allergy patient is simply told to eat the food that is suspected to be causing the symptoms. After this, the person’s condition is assessed: the development of dermatoses, edema, fluctuations in blood pressure, pulse, etc.

The basis of allergy treatment are antihistamines (Erius, Claritin, Zyrtec, etc.). Some of them can be used starting from six months of age. For long-term signs of rhinitis and conjunctivitis, intranasal corticosteroids are prescribed. Allergies, the signs and symptoms of which are most severe, require taking hormones in tablet form.

However, almost all of these drugs are contraindicated during pregnancy.. Therefore, when planning conception, a woman predisposed to a hypersensitivity reaction is recommended to undergo a course of specific vaccination. Life-threatening conditions such as angioedema and anaphylactic shock require a special approach. In such a situation, antihistamines will be useless, since the effect of their use does not develop quickly enough. The patient is injected with a solution of adrenaline or dexamethasone.

If the signs and symptoms of an allergy appear only upon direct contact with an irritant, it requires constant adherence to the rules of prevention. Its main principle is to avoid exposure to the allergen on the body as much as possible. In addition, people with a predisposition to such diseases should follow a certain diet, if possible protect their skin from cold and direct sunlight, and regularly clean the room from dust.

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The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

• Allergy– an abnormal sensitivity or reaction of your immune system to a substance (allergen) that you eat, inhale, or come into direct contact with. Usually this substance is easily tolerated by people who are not allergic.


• Almost 50% of all allergy sufferers suffer from pollen allergies.


• If both parents have allergies, it is likely that their children will also have allergies that may be different from their parents' allergies.


• Almost 70% of adults with food allergies are under 30 years of age, and most children are around 3 years old.

Once the cells have produced these transmitters, “reinforcements” in the form of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) are sent to the site of the reaction, thereby causing a stronger reaction. If left untreated, allergic rhinitis in children can lead to complications such as regular ear infections, which in turn can affect speech development in children. It's important to note that there is no sign that children have actually outgrown their allergies. They may outgrow a particular allergy and develop other allergies. Allergic reactions, as a rule, go away with age, but adults rarely “outgrow” allergies.

Risk factors

• Heredity


• Environment


• Upper respiratory tract infections


• Heredity. If one parent has allergies, the risk that their child will inherit allergies is between 30 and 50%. However, a boy or girl will not necessarily develop the same type of allergy that his or her parents had. If both parents have allergies, then the probability of developing allergies in their children reaches 60 - 80%. Only 25 to 50% of identical twins have the same allergy


• Environment. If the occurrence of allergies depends on heredity, then the environment, as a rule, triggers the mechanism of allergy development itself. Environmental factors are a factor if you are in a place where you are exposed to a lot of antigen, especially at an early age.
• Upper respiratory tract infections. Children who have viral or bacterial infections of the upper respiratory tract (nose, throat and bronchi) in the first six months of their life are more likely to develop allergies or allergies, such as asthma, later in life.

Emotional stress can cause allergies, but they are not psychosomatic in origin.

When to see a doctor

If you notice the following symptoms, be sure to consult a doctor for an in-person consultation:


• severe stomach cramps, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea, which are signs of food poisoning, a serious allergic reaction to food, or another type of allergic reaction;


• painful or difficult breathing. If you experience this symptom, you need to get medical help immediately. This could be an asthma attack, another serious allergic reaction, or a heart attack;


• sudden appearance of hives, accompanied by severe redness and itching, rapid heartbeat. You will need urgent medical attention as these symptoms may indicate the onset of anaphylactic shock;


• pain in the sinuses, chills, yellow or green nasal discharge. You may have a sinus infection;


• cough or cold that does not go away within one to two weeks;


• swelling around the eyes and lips.


Contact your doctor if, after taking over-the-counter allergy medications, your symptoms do not go away or get worse for no apparent reason.

Diagnostics

It is not always easy to diagnose an allergy when there are some signs on the face that resemble allergy symptoms, but do not involve the immune system. For mild forms of allergies, there is no need to undergo tests, and a physician can make a diagnosis by studying your medical history and conducting a thorough physical examination.


• blood test. This blood test is done to determine the levels of eosinophils, white blood cells, and the concentration of immunoglobulin E. If the test results show that the eosinophil levels are higher than normal, it is a sign that the body is trying to fight off foreign invaders, such as allergens. The presence of immunoglobulin E, responsible for the development of allergic reactions, confirms the presence of an allergy. This method has low diagnostic value.


• swab from the nasal mucosa. A sample of mucus obtained from the nose is tested for eosinophil content.


• radioallergosorbent test (RAST-test). The level of immunoglobulin E in the blood serum is measured using the radioimmunological method and the allergen that caused the allergic reaction in the patient is determined. If test results show a high amount of immunoglobulin E reacting with a particular allergen, it is likely that the person is allergic to that allergen.


• skin testing (allergy tests). If it is not clear from the patient's medical history what is causing the allergy, a skin prick test may be performed. A solution containing the allergen that is believed to have caused the allergy is injected into the skin to determine whether the immune system is hypersensitive to immunoglobulin E. If a person has an allergy, after 15-20 minutes a small blister and redness around it will appear at the scarification site. This test performs better when testing for inhalant allergies, insect sting allergies, and drug allergies. It can also help determine if you have a food allergy.


These tests are not entirely reliable: if too much of a substance is given intravenously, it may cause a reaction in a non-allergic person. In addition, people who are hypersensitive may experience anaphylactic shock even if only a small amount of the substance is injected into the skin.

If your doctor's treatment doesn't relieve your symptoms, or your doctor suspects other causes, newer diagnostic tests may help. These include X-rays or CT scans of the paranasal sinuses to detect sinusitis or structural defects of the nose. Nasal endoscopy, which allows the surgeon to examine the inside of the nasal canals using a lighted, flexible tube, may be recommended to detect structural defects, infections, or nasal polyps.

Treatment

Medicines
There is no panacea for allergies. The best way to control or treat allergies is to stop contact with the substance causing the allergy. However, this is not always possible. The most common treatment methods:


• antihistamines prevent the body's mast cells from producing histamine in body tissues (histamine causes allergic reactions);


• decongestants relieve swelling and congestion of the nasal passages. These drugs are sometimes taken along with antihistamines to help control nasal symptoms more effectively;


• steroids relieve inflammation and stop allergic reactions. At the same time, these anti-inflammatory substances reduce nasal swelling and mucus discharge;


• topical creams or skin ointments are used to treat eczema;


• immunotherapy or allergy vaccination can gradually reduce sensitivity to allergens to such an extent that the body stops responding to them;


• Antibiotics are also used to treat complications such as ear and nose infections, which are common in children with allergies.
There is a wide range of medications available to treat asthma. Typically, several medications are prescribed, designed to, first, relieve symptoms during an acute attack, and, second, control symptoms the rest of the time.

Precautions
If you have had severe allergic reactions in the past, you should always carry a set of medications and equipment with you in order to help yourself when anaphylactic shock occurs and, if necessary, give yourself injections. It is important to get medical help right away, and while waiting for medical help, lie down and raise your legs above chest level to increase blood flow to the heart and brain.

Surgery
People with asthma may experience complications during and after surgery. Make sure your doctor knows about your asthma, as you will likely need to undergo a number of tests before surgery.

You should also tell your doctor if you have allergic rhinitis and are unable to schedule surgery after the hives season.

Other facts about allergies

Treating allergies with diet therapy, herbs, and vitamin or mineral supplements has not been shown to be successful. If you have a pollen allergy, you should be especially careful with herbal remedies as they may contain substances that can trigger allergic symptoms!

If you are not allergic to a food component, you will not have to change your diet to avoid causing an allergic reaction. Because allergies are not a result of nutritional deficiencies, but merely a reaction of the immune system, vitamin and mineral supplements will not cure an allergic reaction.

Prevention

Depending on the type of allergy, certain preventive measures will help you organize your life in such a way as to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction. Recommendations:


• sleep on special mattress covers and pillowcases to control dust mites;


• Vacuum and dust frequently to get rid of dust mites and other allergens in the air;


• use air conditioning in your home and car and change filters regularly;


• do not store old bedding, toys, clothes and other items that may carry dust and mold;


• keep pets away from the table;


• Bathe your pets regularly to reduce dandruff;


• Clean non-carpeted floors regularly;


• Clean upholstered furniture to reduce the number of dust mites.


Before use, you should consult a specialist.

Allergy is an increased or perverted sensitivity of the body to any allergen - substance.

The mechanism of the immune response is very complex. It involves the production of antibodies, which are the “defenders” of the body. The task of antibodies is to neutralize substances that invade the body (so-called “antigens”). Theoretically, any immune system seems to “exceed its powers” ​​and, having lost control, begins to react to a completely harmless substance as if it were dangerous. This loss of control leads to the triggering of allergic reactions.

Individual allergens for different patients can be any substances that are completely harmless to a healthy person. For example, these may be normal components of food (citrus fruits, fish, etc.), various substances that are common environmental factors (dust, tree pollen, animal hair, mushrooms), and medications. Allergens only start a process, the basis for which is the altered state of the patient’s body itself.

Allergic reactions are diverse in manifestations and severity of treatment; they are capable of developing in different directions and involving various organs and tissues of the body. i.e., given the complexity and multicomponent nature of the human immune system, it should be remembered that each patient has his own body, his own individual sets (combinations) of immune disorders and his own individual allergies.

The leading factor in impaired immunity is the genetic factor, i.e. the health of children is, first of all, the health of their parents (and so on from generation to generation).

Allergy symptoms

Respiratory allergies

Respiratory forms are a group of diseases of an allergic nature that affect various parts of the respiratory tract.

Allergic rhinitis is the most common disease of this type and includes both seasonal and year-round rhinitis.

Its main symptoms are itching in the nose, sneezing, nasal congestion and difficulty breathing, which usually appear in the spring and summer. In addition, there are attacks of sneezing, watery discharge from the nose, general malaise, headache, drowsiness, possible rise in temperature, and irritability. Hay fever may be accompanied by eye irritation and watery eyes.

The causes of year-round rhinitis can be house dust, animal dander, household chemicals, cosmetics and perfumes, and medications. Chronic allergic rhinitis with periods of exacerbation can occur in response to food products, especially preservatives and other chemical additives.

Allergic tracheobronchitis - characterized by attacks of dry hacking cough, often at night. The disease progresses in waves and lasts a long time.

Allergy treatment and diet

Allergy treatment includes the following:

• Elimination diet.
• Pharmacotherapy (basic preventive therapy, treatment of concomitant diseases).
• Allergen-specific immunotherapy.
• Immunomodulatory therapy (when combined with immune deficiency).
• Educational programs (training of patients and their relatives in an allergy school).

The following are foods that should be limited or completely excluded from the diet of patients with allergies:

• Flakes.
• Egg-free pasta.
• Ready-made mixtures for making dough.
• Ready-made pies, gingerbreads, gingerbreads, icing, puddings.
• Chocolate.
• Potato chips.
• Colored carbonated and fruit drinks.
• Colored marshmallows.
• Caramel, dragee.
• Citrus fruits (lemons, oranges, tangerines, grapefruits, etc.).
• Wines, beer, liqueurs, liqueurs.
• Marinades and pickles, vinegar.
• Canned vegetables, soups, dry soup mixes, seafood.
• Sausage mince.
• Strawberries, strawberries

When prescribing an elimination diet to patients, it is necessary to accurately indicate the duration of its use and the procedure for expanding the diet after eliminating manifestations of food intolerance.

Pharmacotherapy for food allergies is prescribed in the acute period to eliminate signs of a developed reaction and basic therapy to prevent the development of such reactions. In the acute period, antiallergic drugs are prescribed, the doses and route of administration of which are determined by the severity of the reaction.

It is necessary to promptly correct concomitant diseases of gastrointestinal diseases, liver and gallbladder diseases, etc.

Elimination, as far as possible - complete, of causally significant allergens, risk factors and provoking factors, taking into account age.

The insidiousness of allergies lies in the fact that at the initial stage it can manifest itself with mild symptoms that do not cause significant concern - a runny nose or skin rashes. But at the time of contacting a doctor about more serious manifestations of allergies, the patient may experience significant disturbances in the functioning of the body, which, without delaying the visit to the doctor, could be prevented.

Why is early diagnosis of allergies necessary?

Despite the fact that allergies are one of the most common diseases existing today, only a few people know how allergies manifest themselves. But timely consultation with a doctor and, consequently, an accurate diagnosis, a reduction in the duration of treatment and the absence of possible complications depend on how aware you are of the symptoms and signs of allergies. Diagnosis of allergies can be complicated by the following factors:

• manifestations of allergies are purely individual in nature - symptoms and signs of an allergy to the same substance can vary significantly from patient to patient;
• allergy symptoms are often mistaken for symptoms of any systemic disease (bronchitis, rhinitis, dermatosis, etc.);
• Mistaking an allergy for some other disease (runny nose, skin irritation, etc.), people often resort to self-medication, which further blurs the clinical picture of the allergy and complicates correct diagnosis.

One of the main conditions for making an accurate diagnosis is to see a doctor as early as possible. Quite often, mild allergy symptoms without proper treatment are aggravated by cross-allergic reactions, complicating both the course of the disease and its clinical picture.

Early diagnosis of allergies largely depends on how quickly the patient consults a doctor with symptoms that bother him. It does not matter how long it takes for an allergy to appear after contact with an allergen: at the first sign that the immune system is hypersensitive to any substance, you should consult a doctor. After all, between direct exposure to an allergen and an allergic reaction, minutes or days can pass.

What forms of allergies exist?

Allergy symptoms depend on which organs produce antibodies to the substance that causes hypersensitivity. In this regard, manifestations of allergies are usually divided into four types: skin, respiratory, gastrointestinal and mixed.

Skin manifestations of allergies

Skin allergies most often occur when the skin comes into direct contact with an allergen. Household detergents, cosmetics, fruit and vegetable juices and other substances that come into contact with the skin can cause a hypersensitivity reaction in the immune system. As a result, specific proteins called antibodies begin to be produced in the mast cells of the skin, causing skin symptoms.

Rash is a common manifestation of allergies.

Such symptoms appear in the form of rashes and reddened areas where the skin comes into contact with the allergen.

Redness is not necessarily accompanied by a rash, but if a rash occurs, it looks like multiple blisters filled with clear liquid. The allergy rash causes severe itching, especially at night, and without treatment can remain on the skin for several weeks. If contact with the allergen is not eliminated during rashes, small inflamed areas merge into larger ones.

Based on how the allergy manifests itself on the skin and in what areas, one can draw conclusions about what exactly caused the allergic reaction. For example, if redness or a rash appears on the skin of your hands after washing dishes without gloves, this may indicate hypersensitivity of the body to the ingredients of the detergent. A rash on your toes and feet after you first put on your new shoes may indicate an allergy to the dyes in the shoes.

Respiratory manifestations of allergies

Respiratory disorders are how allergies to animals, plant pollen, house dust and other substances that enter the body during breathing manifest themselves.

Respiratory symptoms can vary in severity, from mild (allergic rhinitis) to extremely severe (bronchial asthma).

With allergic rhinitis, itching occurs in the nose and nasopharynx, which is followed by sneezing and the discharge of clear, watery mucus from the nose. At night, a person may experience difficulty breathing due to nasal congestion. In parallel with allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis often develops: swelling and redness of the eyelids, lacrimation, itching.

Bronchial asthma, which, in turn, also varies in the severity of symptoms, is characterized by a hacking cough and shortness of breath that occurs after contact with an allergen.

In more severe cases, shortness of breath can be so severe that the patient’s respiratory functions are impaired - the person is unable to breathe on his own. Such situations require immediate medical attention.

Gastrointestinal manifestations of allergies

The manifestation of allergic reactions that are associated with digestive disorders most often does not indicate an allergy, but an individual intolerance to a food product. But the line between allergy and intolerance is so thin that if symptoms are left unattended, the immune system, under excessive stress, can become hypersensitive to a certain product and begin to produce specific antibodies to it.

Gastrointestinal allergy symptoms include nausea and vomiting that occurs after eating certain foods. The most common intolerances are caused by foods containing flavors and dyes, as well as chocolate, chicken eggs and citrus fruits.

Mixed manifestations of allergies

With a mixed form of allergy, the patient may simultaneously experience respiratory and skin or skin and gastrointestinal symptoms. In this case, several hours may pass between the appearance of symptoms of different types.

What should you do if you notice allergy symptoms?

The steps you need to take depend on the severity of your allergy symptoms.

If an allergic reaction manifests itself as skin rashes, rhinitis and conjunctivitis, you should consult a doctor within the next 24 hours. Before doing this, write down:

• what foods you consumed during the last two days;
• what cosmetics and detergents did you use;
• what medications were taken.

If you are using any medications, you should stop taking them until you consult your doctor.

If you experience the following symptoms, you should immediately call emergency services:

• difficulty wheezing,
• bluish lips,
• swelling of the face and/or neck.

The listed manifestations of allergies may indicate serious disorders of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems and require immediate medical attention.