- Allergy is an exaggerated reaction to exposure to substances foreign to the body.
- The first step in treatment is to avoid contact with the allergen as much as possible.
- Every July 8th, World Allergy Day is commemorated.
There are health problems that are not necessarily diseases but affect a large number of people. Allergies are in this classification and there are some that are more common than the rest. In all cases they lack a cure although they can be controlled.
What does it consist on?
To begin with, the word allergy comes from the Greek terms Alos (“other, different, strange”) and Ergos (“reaction”). Therefore, it means “different reaction”. With this in mind, it can be translated as an exaggerated effect that is produced by exposure to substances foreign to the body, which cause the appearance of different symptoms. These substances are called allergens.
The allergens They can enter the body through different channels, such as the digestive system (food and medicine), the respiratory system (inhaling them), through the skin through contact or when they cross it (injections, bites).
When the immune system detects these foreign substances, the first thing it does is try to neutralize them. This response causes a series of physical reactions that release chemicals like histamines that cause allergy symptoms.
In the autumn and winter periods, respiratory problems occupy the first place as a cause of attention in the demand for medical services for both children and adults, however, the majority are allergies.
Main discomforts that cause
In a allergic reaction Reactions such as itching, sneezing, runny nose or nasal congestion may occur. Red, itchy, watery eyes can be a sign of conjunctivitis, and atopic dermatitis is manifested by very itchy, dry skin.
The more severe forms of allergy They are characterized by inflammation of the lips, with respiratory distress that in the most severe cases can compromise the airway and have to be managed in intensive care units.
Asthma and allergic rhinitis are two of the most common allergies in the world and it is even estimated that affect more than 300 million people.
The first and most effective measure to prevent allergies is to avoid contact with the allergen. Second, there are medications that are effective in treating symptoms, such as antihistamines. It is important to say that all these treatments improve and control the symptoms, but they do not cure the allergy.
If a person has allergy symptoms, they should go to a specialist who in this case is an Allergist, or also called a Clinical Immunologist. Through a series of skin tests or blood tests, it is in charge of determining the causes that trigger the discomfort. Later, it diagnoses the type of allergy you suffer from and provides the appropriate treatment.
Allergy treatments
The first step in allergy treatment is to avoid contact with the allergen as much as possible. Some preventive measures to avoid allergies are: stay away from foods, substances, products or fabrics that can trigger the allergic process; avoid humid and poorly ventilated environments. For now, we share with you what are the most common allergies today.
