Learn How Allergic Conditions Can Affect You

Like many people look great, allergies are a nuisance and a debilitating condition. An allergic reaction occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to a normally harmless substance. This substance is called an allergen, often resulting in symptoms that can range from itchy eyes and a runny nose to skin rashes and breathing difficulties. Also, allergies can cause painful irritation and may even be fatal for some. This article describes the symptoms, methods of diagnosis and treatment information from some of the most common allergic conditions.

Asthma – This is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes throat swelling and inflammation of the bronchial tubes of the lungs. Asthma is highly prevalent and severely disabling at best. At worst, it can even be fatal. Countless While allergens can potentially trigger this disorder, indoor allergens are generally responsible. This allergic condition characterized by difficulty breathing, chest tightness and frequent attacks of coughing and wheezing. A skin test can be used to diagnose this condition and can be treated with antihistamines, bronchodilators and topical steroids.

Rhinitis – Allergic rhinitis is a disease that is known to occur in the eyes, nose and throat. This symptom occurs when suspended particles or allergens trigger the release of histamine, which subsequently results in inflammation and fluid production in the nasal passages, sinuses and eyelids. Sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, facial pain, headache, poor concentration and sleep difficulties characterize rhinitis. Depending on the severity of this condition, on the counter or doctor-prescribed antihistamine in Haled medicines and eye drops can be used to relieve symptoms.

Oral allergy syndrome – oral allergy syndrome (OAS) is an allergic condition occasionally experienced by people with food allergies. In particular, fruit and vegetables are common triggers and manifests as a local tissue reaction in the person’s lips, mouth and throat. These reactions usually occur within minutes after the meal, but last only briefly and rarely serious. A blood test can be used to help identify the allergen and the OAC is usually treated through various over-the-counter antihistamines and epinephrine.

Allergic Conjunctivitis – Conjunctivitis is an eye condition that is triggered by various allergens and irritants in the air. Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis is often linked to attacks of hay fever. A person who would normally wear contact lenses glasses are recommended during these times. Contact lenses will only aggravate the problem and potentially can cause an eye infection. Red and itchy eyes and eyelids, swollen eyelids, constant sneezing and a runny nose characterize allergic conjunctivitis. This condition can be treated by using lubricating eye drops and over-the-counter antihistamines. Aspirin and ibuprofen can help reduce swelling of the eyelids and a cold compress on the eyelids can bring substantial relief.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis – This is an allergic reaction that occurs when a substance allergen comes into contact with the skin surface. Regardless of how many minutes, contact with an allergen will provoke an aggressive reaction of the skin. Allergic contact dermatitis is usually first indicated by itchy skin and wash with small fluid-filled blisters. However, the onset of symptoms is not necessarily immediate and may appear even a week after initial contact. Because of this delay in the response, patch testing is the ideal diagnostic method. The methods of treatment for this condition include cortisone creams and ointments. Tight clothes and rough may aggravate symptoms and should therefore be avoided.