Home | Pet Health Articles
An allergy happens, when a person is sensitized to a particular substance, that provokes an allergic reaction. The substances are known as allergens, or triggers, because they trigger an overreaction in the body’s immune system. There are natural allergens, such as pollens, industrial substances, such as chemicals, and the foods that we consume, usually proteins, and numerous others. There are four distinct ways in which allergens can enter the body: Inhalation - as with dust mites and pollen. Eating - as with some foods. Absorption - through the skin, as with some plants or chemicals. Injection - some people are allergic to drugs, such as penicillin. If an allergic individual experiences allergens, for the first time, the allergic reactions don't occur, but the immune system is sensitized. Think of it, as being ready to resist allergens, that it mistakenly considers to be invaders, intent on doing harm to the body. Having become hypersensitized to a particular substance, when the immune system experiences a similar allergen; it automatically over-produces antibodies to deal with the imagined threat. The antibodies bind with the allergens, and as they move around the body, they interact with other cells. Then substances, including histamine, create inflammation, which is a common allergy condition. Allergies differ from person to person, and the symptoms range from being as mild as a runny nose, to anaphylactic shock, which can be fatal. Testing and Diagnoses When it is suitable, skin testing is preferable to blood testing, because it is more specific, simpler to perform, and costs less. However, your doctor will advise what is best suited to your condition. Treatments Available Doctors, who are specialists in treating allergic diseases, undergo extensive training. In the United States at leastnine years is needed to become an allergist immunologist. It is good to know that real improvements in medical treatments have been developed by allergists. These include fast acting epinephrine tablets, low allergy foods, and advances in treating yellow jacket stings. Immunotherapy If immunotherapy is thought to be an appropriate treatment, it could either reduce the severity of an allergy or cure it completely. It requires injecting gradually increased dosage, of the allergen, identified as causing the symptoms. There have been good results in dealing with rhinitis and asthma. Prescribed Drugs Various drugs are used to deal with the symptoms of allergy which include, antihistamines, cortisone, hydrocortisone, theophlene, epinephrine, and dexamethosone. Some preparations are available over the counter, but it is always wise to find out from your doctor, what is recommeded for your own allergy. Summary Nobody knows precisely why some people get allergies, whilst others don't. It may be that there is a hereditary factor with some allergies. It does seem clear that the incidence of allergies is on the increase, and that it seems to be related to modern living. For instance, work places have become airtight, with windows that opened being replaced by air conditioning. However, the quality of the outdoor air, particularly in built up areas, is questionable. On a global basis, rain forests are diminishing, whilst gas guzzling vehicles are increasing. Add the economic advancement of the emerging nations, and you have a recipe for industrial soup. Some of the Chinese settlers develop hay fever, after moving to the United States, for three or more years. More recently, there has been much publicity concerning industrial contamination in Beijing, and other cities. It seems that the time could soon arrive, when the good people of China will have their own, home grown variety of rhinitis! Will the new found success be accompanied by allergic respiratory disorders – if it does, it must prove something! Please Read This article is only for general information, and must not be used as a substitute for the medical guidance of your doctor, or other medically qualified practitioner. Always seek advice from your doctor, before deciding if any product or treatment, is appropriate for your condition. You should know that what suits one allergy sufferer might be inappropriate for another. Do not act on any advice you have read, either in this article or elsewhere, without the total approval of your doctor. The author does not accept any liability whatsoever, for any consequences arising from or thought to be arising from using this article.
Article Source: http://www.phalenes.org/articles
Richard Wise writes articles concerning antioxidants, herbal remedies, allergies and vegetarianism. To find out more about allergy please call at his web site www.allergy-check.com which includes information regarding peanut allergy, and other matters.
Please Rate this Article
5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5
Not yet Rated
