Allergies Overview Complete Guide
Understanding Allergies
Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to substances (allergens) that are typically harmless. This hypersensitivity reaction involves IgE antibody production, mast cell activation, and release of inflammatory mediators including histamine. Allergies affect approximately 30% of adults and 40% of children globally, with prevalence increasing in urban environments like Dubai.
Types of Allergies
Respiratory Allergies: Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever), perennial allergic rhinitis, and asthma triggered by airborne allergens including pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander.
Skin Allergies: Atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis, urticaria (hives), and angioedema presenting as skin inflammation, itching, and swelling.
Food Allergies: Immune-mediated reactions to food proteins ranging from mild oral symptoms to life-threatening anaphylaxis.
Drug Allergies: Reactions to medications including antibiotics, NSAIDs, and contrast dyes.
Insect Allergies: Reactions to stings from bees, wasps, hornets, and fire ants.
Chemical Sensitivities: Reactions to fragrances, preservatives, and environmental chemicals.
Common Allergens in Dubai
The UAE’s desert environment presents unique allergen profiles. Dust mites thrive in air-conditioned environments. Pollen from desert plants including Prosopis juliflora affects many residents. Mold growth during humid months triggers reactions. Cockroach allergens are common in urban settings. Pet allergens are prevalent in the many pet-owning households.
Symptoms by Type
Respiratory allergies cause sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and asthma symptoms. Skin allergies present as rash, itching, hives, and swelling. Severe allergic reactions may involve multiple organ systems with breathing difficulty, low blood pressure, and loss of consciousness.
Diagnosis Methods
Allergy diagnosis involves detailed history, physical examination, skin prick testing, specific IgE blood testing, patch testing for contact allergens, and provocation testing. Component-resolved diagnostics provides detailed sensitization profiles.
Treatment Approaches
Management combines allergen avoidance, pharmacotherapy (antihistamines, corticosteroids, bronchodilators), immunotherapy (allergy shots, sublingual tablets), and biologic agents for severe cases. Emergency preparedness for anaphylaxis includes epinephrine and action plans.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What causes allergies? Combination of genetic predisposition and environmental exposure to allergens.
2. Can allergies develop at any age? Yes, allergies can develop or resolve at any stage of life.
3. Why are allergies increasing? Hygiene hypothesis, environmental changes, pollution, dietary shifts, and climate change.
4. What is the difference between allergic and non-allergic rhinitis? Allergic rhinitis involves IgE-mediated immune response; non-allergic involves other mechanisms.
5. Can allergies be cured? Immunotherapy can induce long-term tolerance, but no permanent cure exists.
6. What is the histamine response? Histamine released during allergic reactions causes itching, swelling, and inflammation.
7. How do dust mites cause allergies? Proteins in dust mite feces and body parts trigger IgE-mediated reactions.
8. Can weather affect allergies? Yes, temperature, humidity, and wind patterns affect allergen levels.
9. What is cross-reactivity? When allergens with similar proteins trigger reactions to multiple substances.
10. Are allergy tests accurate? Skin and blood tests are highly sensitive but require clinical correlation.
11-515. Additional FAQs cover types, symptoms, treatment, children, Dubai context, and research.
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Medical Disclaimer
Educational purposes only. Consult healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
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