What are allergic reactions?
Allergic reactions are hypersensitive responses to patient contact with certain substances or particles. The substance that causes such a reaction is called an allergen. When the patient comes into contact with the allergic substance, the first thing that happens is that the patient’s immune system automatically responds by releasing a large number of antibodies called IgE (immunoglobulin E).
To prevent allergic reactions it is important to avoid triggers.
Prognosis of the disease
Allergic reactions are common and occur after contact with an allergen. There are mild to severe reactions, which can potentially be life-threatening. They can also affect a small area of the body or spread throughout the body. Therefore, the prognosis will depend on the type of reaction that occurs.
Symptoms of allergic reactions
The most common symptoms of a mild allergic reaction are:
- Localized itching
- Red and/or watery eyes
- Rash
- Nasal congestion
- Red hives on the neck and face
In a moderate or severe allergic reaction, the following symptoms may also occur:
- Abdominal pain
- Anxiety
- Chest discomfort or tightness
- Diarrhea
- Swelling in various parts of the body
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
- Dizziness
- Cough and/or feeling of fatigue
- Breathing and swallowing difficulty
Medical tests for allergic reactions
Allergy tests, blood tests or other follow-up tests are commonly used to diagnose allergic reactions.
What are the causes of allergic reactions?
The causes of allergies are very varied. There are genetic causes but the most common is that the allergy appears in isolation. The most common allergens are usually food, especially seafood and nuts, dander or animal hair, insect bites, medicines, plants and pollen.
Can it be prevented?
To prevent allergic reactions it is important to avoid triggers such as foods or medicines that have previously caused an allergic reaction. In addition, it is important to identify and, if necessary, perform the appropriate tests in order to have an accurate diagnosis in the event of an allergic reaction. Persons who have already suffered a severe allergic reaction should be identified in medical terms with a label and carry the necessary medications for it.
Treatments for allergic reactions
Treatment will depend on the type of allergy. There are different types:
- Antihistamines: block the action of histamine, which is the cause of sneezing, runny nose, itchy skin or eyes, etc.
- Allergy shots: they can change the way the body reacts to different allergy-causing substances.
Which specialist treats you?
Allergology is the medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases produced by immunological mechanisms. The allergist will carry out an etiological study of the causes, to identify the allergenic source and the diagnosis at the level of molecules, as well as its integral treatment.