Have you suddenly started itching, your skin turning red, and you've started to have hives? Does this happen sometimes after eating something, or going to a dusty place, or even touching a cat or dog? Most of the time, the cause of this can be an allergic reaction. Today, let's talk about what allergies are, simply and in a friendly way.
What exactly is an allergic reaction?
Simply put, an allergy is when our body's defense system, the immune system, mistakes something that is actually harmless as a 'big enemy' and starts fighting against it.
Imagine that we have a few bodyguards. Their job is to fight against things that are harmful to the body, such as germs that cause disease. But in some people, these bodyguards are a little too sensitive. When they see things that are actually harmless, like dust, pollen, certain foods, and animal hair, they think they are a big enemy and start a big fight. As a result of that fight, we get the symptoms of an allergy. We call these things that cause allergies allergens .
What are the main types and symptoms of allergies?
An allergy can come in many forms. These can be divided into several types depending on the cause and the effect on the body. Let's take a look at the most common types.
| Allergic type (Type) | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Allergic Rhinitis | This is similar to what we call 'allergy.' When we inhale things like pollen and dust, we experience symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, and itchy nose, eyes, and throat. |
| Allergic Asthma | Asthma flare-ups caused by inhaling an allergen. Difficulty breathing, a feeling of tightness in the chest, and fatigue. |
| Contact Dermatitis | When something harmful to the body (e.g. metals like nickel, certain chemicals) comes into contact with the skin, itchy, red rashes or blisters appear. |
| Oral Allergy Syndrome | Slight swelling or itching of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat after eating certain fruits, vegetables, or nuts. |
| Anaphylaxis | This is a very dangerous condition that requires emergency treatment. Severe symptoms such as swelling of the airways, difficulty breathing, vomiting, and a dangerous drop in blood pressure can occur all at once. |
The most important thing to remember is that while an allergy can sometimes be as simple as a minor itch, it can also sometimes progress to a more serious condition, such as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.
What are the main causes of allergies?
Allergies can be caused by anything, but there are a few common causes:
- Insect bites: Especially bites from wasps and hornets.
- Animals: Hair, saliva, or dead skin cells from animals such as dogs and cats.
- Dust mites: Tiny creatures that are invisible to the eye and live in house dust.
- Food: Nuts like peanuts and cashews, milk, eggs, seafood (shrimp, squid, crab) etc.
- Medications: Some painkillers and antibiotics.
- Molds: Molds that grow in moist places.
- Metals: Metals such as nickel (may be found in jewelry and watch bands).
- Plants: Touching certain types of plants.
- Pollen: Pollen released from trees, flowers, and grasses.
Sometimes it's easy to figure out what you're allergic to. But sometimes it's hard to find the cause. In such cases, you can see a dermatologist or allergist and get the necessary tests (skin test or blood test) done to find out the exact cause.
What should you do immediately when you have an allergy?
This is very important because the way we should act will vary depending on the nature of the allergy.
In a serious, emergency situation
If you have difficulty breathing, feel dizzy, or experience swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat , it could be anaphylaxis .
In such a situation , do not delay for a second and immediately go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU). If you have been given something like an epinephrine auto-injector prescribed by a doctor, use it on the way to the hospital.
For a minor allergy
If it's something minor, like a minor itch, rash, or minor irritation, you can try these things to get some relief:
- Antihistamines: These can help control allergy symptoms, but it's best to talk to your doctor before using any medication.
- Nasal Spray: Can provide relief from nasal congestion.
- A cloth soaked in cold water: Placing it on itchy eyes or skin lesions can provide relief.
- Bathing: This is the best way to remove allergens from your body and clothes.
- Hypoallergenic lotions: Help reduce skin itching and dryness.
How can you prevent allergies?
The best thing to do is to stay as far away as possible from things you are allergic to.
- Food allergies: Read the labels of store-bought foods carefully. Check to see if they contain ingredients you are allergic to (e.g., cashews, milk, soy). Even if you go to a restaurant, inform them before ordering.
- If you have a dust allergy: Keep your home and bedding clean. If possible, use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.
- If you have a pollen allergy: Keep windows closed during peak pollen times (morning). Wash your hands after going outside.
- If you are allergic to certain plants: Wear long pants, long sleeves, and gloves when doing tasks such as clearing weeds.
In addition to these, your doctor may recommend daily medications or allergy immunotherapy to control allergies.
Take-Home Message
- An allergy can range from a minor itch to life-threatening anaphylaxis.
- Identify exactly what you are allergic to. Seek medical advice if necessary.
- If you experience serious symptoms such as swelling of the face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing, go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
- If you are at risk of a severe allergic reaction, always carry an epinephrine injector prescribed by your doctor.
- You can control your allergies and live a normal life. The best solution is to talk to your doctor and develop a management plan that works for you.
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