There are different forms of allergies. Allergy is caused by type I hypersensitivity reactions of the immunity system. The reaction is characterized by extreme activation of mast cells and basophils by an antibody IgE which results in inflammatory reaction to the activating substance. The environment and genetics are the factors leading to allergic reactions. Common allergies are hay fever, asthma, insects such as bees, food and eczema. The range of reactions can be from mild to severe which can result in death. One such example of life-threatening allergic response is anaphylactic shocks to medications and wasp stings. Severe allergic reactions must be treated immediately, there is no OTC treatment and must be referred to doctors as soon as possible.
Diagnosis of allergies is available and it includes blood testing and skin testing. Apart from these two methods, the diagnosis of a certain allergy by a professional must be confirmed with the symptoms as described by an individual. There are numerous treatments available to allergic reactions. Depending on the severity and types of allergic reactions, the doctor would prescribe different treatments. If one is allergic to an environmental factor, there are utilities to be used and installed at home to decrease its amount, for example one can get rid of dust and mold using air purifiers and HEPA vacuum cleaners.
Apart from these, one can buy medicinal reliefs from doctors or even the over-the-counter (OTC) drugs at the pharmacy. Improvements on these drugs enable one to take the medicine and can still continue with daily routine without getting drowsy. In countries with spring season, hay fever is common and one can easily get relief from the pharmacies without prescriptions. Some of the drugs available are antihistamines cetirizine, chlorpheniramine, diphenhydramine and fexofenadine. Products such as Claritin, Zyrtec and Allegra are OTC drugs widely available in pharmacies for mild allergic reactions such as hay fever. When allergic reactions occur, one of the effects is blocked respiratory pathways due to inflammation. A doctor would prescribe epinephrine injections to unblock the pathways.
As for those who are suffering from food allergies, prevention works the best. One of the common food allergies is peanuts, and we can see that food manufacturer puts warnings on their product labels. There are individuals who are allergic to animal fur such as cats, and again the best way is to avoid them. It is best for an individual to find out what allergies he has and prevent himself from getting in touch with the substance, although some are unavoidable.
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Richard Lowe
