Allergies: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

What Are Allergies?

An allergy is a condition in which the immune system overreacts to substances that are normally harmless, such as dust, dust mites, pollen, animal dander, mould, certain foods, medicines, or insect venom.

This abnormal immune response can affect different parts of the body, including the nose, skin, eyes, digestive system, and respiratory tract.

Allergies can occur at any age but are particularly common among children and working-age adults. Without appropriate management, persistent symptoms may affect sleep, learning, work performance, and overall quality of life.

What Causes Allergies?

Allergies usually result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Common contributing factors include:

๐ A family history of allergic conditions

๐ Frequent exposure to allergens

๐ Air pollution and PM2.5

๐ Cigarette smoke

๐ Recurrent respiratory infections

๐ Damp environments that allow dust mites and mould to grow

Common Allergens

Substances that commonly trigger allergic reactions include:

๐ Dust mites

๐ Household dust

๐ Pollen

๐ Dog and cat dander

๐ Mould

๐ Cockroach allergens

๐ Foods such as shrimp, crab, eggs, milk, and nuts

๐ Certain medicines

๐ Insect bites and stings

Symptoms of Allergies

Symptoms vary depending on the part of the body affected.

1. Allergic Rhinitis

Common symptoms include:

๐ Frequent sneezing, particularly in the morning

๐ Clear nasal discharge

๐ Nasal congestion

๐ Itchy nose

๐ Itchy or watery eyes

2. Skin Allergies

Skin-related symptoms may include:

๐ Red rashes

๐ Severe itching

๐ Dry or irritated skin

๐ Hives

3. Respiratory Allergies

When allergies affect the airways, symptoms may include:

๐ Persistent coughing

๐ Wheezing

๐ Chest tightness

๐ Shortness of breath

These symptoms may be associated with asthma and should be medically assessed.

4. Food Allergies

Food allergy symptoms may include:

๐ Skin rashes or hives

๐ Swelling of the lips, face, or mouth

๐ Nausea or vomiting

๐ Abdominal pain

๐ Difficulty breathing

A severe allergic reaction may cause anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.

Possible Complications of Uncontrolled Allergies

Persistent or poorly controlled allergies may contribute to:

๐ Asthma

๐ Chronic sinusitis

๐ Middle-ear infections

๐ Snoring caused by nasal obstruction

๐ Poor sleep quality

๐ Reduced academic or work performance

๐ Lower overall quality of life

How Are Allergies Diagnosed?

A doctor may assess allergies through:

๐ A detailed review of symptoms and possible triggers

๐ Physical examination

๐ Allergy testing

๐ Blood tests in selected cases

๐ Lung-function testing when asthma is suspected

Identifying the actual trigger helps the doctor create a more targeted and effective treatment plan.

Treatment for Allergies

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the symptoms.

Avoiding Allergens

Reducing exposure to known triggers is an important part of allergy management.

Helpful measures include:

๐ Washing bed linen every week

๐ Using dust-mite-proof mattress and pillow covers

๐ Vacuuming and cleaning the home regularly

๐ Reducing indoor humidity

๐ Removing visible mould

๐ Avoiding cigarette smoke

๐ Keeping pets away from sleeping areas when animal allergens are a trigger

Medication

Depending on the symptoms, treatment may include:

๐ Antihistamines

๐ Corticosteroid nasal sprays

๐ Asthma inhalers

๐ Medicated creams or ointments for skin symptoms

Medication should be used according to medical or pharmaceutical advice, particularly for children, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions.

Allergen Immunotherapy

Allergen immunotherapy may be appropriate for selected patients with persistent or recurring symptoms.

This treatment gradually exposes the body to controlled amounts of a confirmed allergen to reduce sensitivity over time. It may help decrease the severity of symptoms and reduce reliance on medication.

Immunotherapy must be prescribed and supervised by a qualified doctor.

How to Reduce the Risk of Allergy Symptoms

Although allergies cannot always be prevented, symptoms may be reduced by:

๐ Cleaning the home regularly

๐ Minimising the accumulation of dust

๐ Using an air purifier when appropriate

๐ Wearing a mask in areas with high dust or pollution levels

๐ Exercising regularly

๐ Eating a balanced and nutritious diet

๐ Getting enough sleep

๐ Avoiding smoking and second-hand smoke

๐ Monitoring air-quality levels during periods of high PM2.5

When Should You See a Doctor?

Medical assessment is recommended when:

๐ Sneezing, a runny nose, or nasal congestion continues for more than two weeks

๐ Symptoms interfere with sleep or daily activities

๐ Over-the-counter medication does not improve the symptoms

๐ Shortness of breath or chest tightness occurs

๐ A severe food reaction develops

๐ Asthma is suspected

๐ Allergic symptoms repeatedly return without a clear trigger

Early assessment and appropriate allergy testing can help guide treatment and reduce the risk of complications.

Frequently Asked Questions About Allergies

Can Allergies Be Completely Cured?

Most allergies cannot be permanently cured, but their symptoms can often be controlled effectively.

Management may include avoiding allergens, using medication, and receiving allergen immunotherapy in suitable cases. Immunotherapy may reduce long-term sensitivity and symptom severity.

Are Allergies Contagious?

No. Allergies are not contagious because they are not caused by infectious microorganisms. They result from an individual immune-system response.

Can Children Develop Allergies?

Yes. Allergies are common among children, especially those with a family history of allergic rhinitis, asthma, eczema, or other allergic conditions.

Can PM2.5 Make Allergies Worse?

Yes. Fine particulate matter can irritate and inflame the lining of the respiratory tract, making allergic symptoms more likely to develop or worsen.

When Should Allergy Testing Be Considered?

Allergy testing may be considered when symptoms are chronic, repeatedly return, interfere with daily life, or occur without an identifiable trigger.

The results should always be interpreted alongside the patient’s symptoms and medical history.

What Is the Difference Between an Allergy and a Cold?

Allergies commonly cause:

๐ Clear nasal discharge

๐ Repeated sneezing

๐ Itchy nose

๐ Itchy or watery eyes

๐ Symptoms that persist or return after exposure to a trigger

Allergies do not usually cause fever.

A common cold is caused by a virus and may cause:

๐ Fever

๐ Sore throat

๐ Body aches

๐ Tiredness

๐ Nasal congestion

Cold symptoms generally improve within approximately 7-10 days.

 

Reference :

Kasemrad Hospital Ramkhamhaeng Allergies

ArokaGO Providers Kasemrad Hospital Ramkhamhaeng