Chronic Conditions
Allergies 
What are allergies?
Allergies refer to when the immune system reacts adversely to a particular substance such as pollen, dead animal skin or mould. When you suffer from an allergy, the immune system begins defending the body by fighting against the unfavourable substance.
What are the signs of an allergy?
Regardless of what you are allergic to, the body acts in a similar fashion, presenting with the following symptoms:
- Skin rash
- Itchiness
- Inflammation/redness of the skin
- The formation of bumps over the skin’s surface
- Flakiness
- Unhealthy cracks over the skin.
Symptoms of an animal allergy include the following:
- Stuffy nose or watery discharge from the nose.
- Facial pain that develops from a congested nose.
- Coughing
- Tightness in the chest
- Trouble breathing
- Wheezing
- Hives
A food allergy results in the following:
- Stomach cramping
- Vomiting
- Repetitive coughing
- Voice hoarseness
- Bluish skin
How do you diagnose allergies?
Dr Thomas will likely inquire about your general health and determine whether you have a family history of allergies or asthma.
Therefore, Dr Thomas will conduct the following:
- A thorough medical history is needed to determine whether allergies run in the family.
- Inquire about your symptoms.
- Conduct a complete physical examination.
- Carry out general allergy
- Order a skin prick test to identify the allergen responsible for the reaction.
How do you treat allergies?
Treatment for allergies consists of the following:
- Immunotherapy can be divided into two types: sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) and allergy Immunotherapy involves introducing a sample of the allergen that could trigger a reaction. Doctors usually increase the amount of the particular substance you are exposed to in order to reduce your sensitivity to the substance.
- Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) is the most prevalent type of immunotherapy doctors prescribe. These types of shots alter the immune system, reducing the risk of new allergies and asthma.
- Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) can be delivered orally in tablet form. These types of tablets are taken daily or at least every three days.
- Corticosteroids are prescribed to minimise the symptoms of an allergic reaction. For example, steroids are taken to reduce swelling, redness and inflammation.
FAQ
1What are the typical signs of an allergy?
- Watery discharge from the eyes.
- Itchiness from the nose.
- Watery discharge from the nose.
- Skin rash.
- Vomiting.
2What is considered the most effective treatment for an allergy?
Intranasal corticosteroids alleviate signs of seasonal allergies.
3Can an allergy become life-threatening?
In severe cases, allergies can lead to anaphylaxis, a severe condition.
