Allergies

What is allergy?

It is our immune system’s response to foreign substances in the air and on surfaces, from the products we use, from insects or animals, and from the food we eat. This may cause inflammation on the skin, sinuses, airways or digestive system.

Children, people with asthma, and those with family history of asthma and allergies have higher risk of developing an allergy.

Our bodies respond differently from allergens; some may be mild, but some can be life threatening, too. It is important to know how to relieve allergy symptoms for mild and severe allergic reactions.

Types of allergies & their symptoms:

What is anaphylaxis?

It is a severe allergic reaction that can lead into shock and is a life-threatening medical emergency.

A person experiencing anaphylaxis should be brought to the nearest emergency room and be given an epinephrine shot. The management of anaphylaxis is complicated and should be consulted with an allergology and immunology consultant.

What are the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis?

• Loss of consciousness
• Drop in blood pressure
• Severe shortness of breath
• Skin rash
• Lightheadedness
• A rapid, weak pulse
• Nausea and vomiting

How to prevent allergies:

• Avoid allergens.

Avoid known triggers of your allergic reactions.

• Keep track of what you do and what you intake.

Record the activities, food, medicines and other factors that causes or worsens your allergic reactions and what alleviates it. This will help you and your doctor in identifying the triggers.

• Wear a medical bracelet.

Severe allergic reactions can sometimes affect your ability to communicate. Wearing a medical bracelet can help to inform your first responders that you have a severe allergy.

Resources:

1. Center for Disease Control and Prevention
   • https://www.cdc.gov/climateandhealth/effects/allergen.htm
2. Mayo Clinic
   • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/allergies/symptoms-causes/syc-20351497

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Disclaimer:

All content found on the DLSUMC website, including text, graphics, images, audio or other formats were created for general informational purposes only and are not intended or implied to be substitutes for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call your local emergency hotline immediately.