1. What are allergies?
Allergies are abnormal immune system reactions to things that are usually harmless to most people. Substances that cause allergic reactions, such as certain foods, dust, plant pollen or medicines, are known as allergens. When these allergens enter the nose, sinuses and lungs, the body’s immune system can overreact to these particles and release chemicals like histamine and leukotriene which cause an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions can be mild, like a runny nose or severe, like difficulty breathing. In rare cases, an allergic reaction can become very severe—this severe reaction is called anaphylaxis (pronounced: an-uh-fuh-LAK-sis). Signs of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, swelling of the lips, tongue and throat or other parts of the body, and dizziness or loss of consciousness. Anaphylaxis usually occurs within minutes of exposure, but can be delayed for as long as four hours. Treatment involves an immediate dose of epinephrine, which should be carried at all times by people with a history of severe or anaphylactic allergic reactions.
2. What causes allergies?
The most common causes of allergies are pollen and dust mites. Pollen is an outdoor airborne allergen that causes seasonal allergies or hay fever. Dust mites are tiny creatures that live on bedding, couches and rugs. Other common causes include pet dander (cats > dogs), mold and mildew, cigarette smoke and cockroaches. If you have a family member with allergies, you are more likely to develop allergies as well.
3. How are allergies diagnosed?
If you experience allergic symptoms that last longer than a week or two, or are causing difficulties in your daily life, you may benefit from evaluation and management by your doctor. Most often, allergies are diagnosed based on symptoms. If further testing is necessary, skin testing can be done. This involves pricking your skin with a variety of different allergens, and seeing if your immune system reacts by causing a red, itchy bump on your skin like a mosquito bite. A blood test is also available. Neither of these tests is perfect and your doctor will use the results in combination with your symptoms to help you find the best options for treatment.
4. What can I do to avoid allergies?
• For seasonal allergies, keep in mind that peak pollen season is from August to November and that pollen amounts are highest from 5 AM to 10 AM. Try to plan outdoor activities for the afternoon. Changing your clothes and taking a shower after being outdoors can also help.
• For dust mites, wash all of your bedding once a week in hot water. Buy bedding with synthetic materials instead of wool or feathers, and use dust-proof covers on your mattresses and pillows. Vacuum twice a week, and wear a mask and gloves when cleaning.
• For mold and mildew, try to keep the humidity in your home lower than 50% by using a dehumidifier. Avoid having indoor plants, as wet soil encourages mold growth. Don’t leave wet clothes in the washer, and don’t leave wet towels lying around.
• For pet dander, keep your pet outdoors as much as possible. If you must keep your pets indoors, do not allow them in the bedroom, wash hands frequently after handling pets and bathe them at least weekly. Cat dander can stay airborne for up to 24 hours.
5. What treatments are available?
Treatment depends on your symptoms. Keep in mind that often the symptoms of allergies can only be controlled, not cured.
Medications—there are a number of medications that can help decrease allergy symptoms. Some medications are available over the counter while others require a prescription.
• Antihistamines stop your immune system from reacting to the allergen and causing symptoms. Some examples are oral antihistamines (Claritin®, Allegra®, Zyrtec®, and others); antihistamine nose sprays (Astelin®/Astepro®, Patanase® and others); and antihistamine eye drops (Patanol® and others).
• Decongestants help to reduce swelling of blood vessels and tissues. Examples include Sudafed®, Neo-synephrine® and others.
• Steroids reduce overall inflammation. Examples include steroid nasal sprays such as Flonase®, Nasonex®, Nasacort®, Rhinocort®, and Veramyst®.
• Other medications used for allergies include Leukotriene Inhibitors (Singulair®) and anti-inflammatory eye drops (ketotifen [Zatidor®] and others)
• Speak with your doctor about which medications are right for you.
Allergy shots—When lifestyle changes and medications aren’t enough, allergy shots or immunotherapy are an option. Allergy shots are injections of small amounts of the specific allergen that you are allergic to. Over time, these shots can “train” your body not to respond so strongly to the allergen. These shots are managed by an Allergist and are given on a schedule; usually you will start with 2–3 shots a week and can space these out over 3–5 years.
Additional Resources for More Information:
Cleveland Clinic Allergy Overview
All About Allergy on Valley’s Health Library
Allergy Expert
KidsHealth.org
Contributing Authors:
Leeanne Jones, MD, Valley Family Medicine Residency
Bob Marshall, MD MPH MISM FAAFP, Faculty, Valley Family Medicine
