This comprehensive guide explains allergy causes, symptoms, and modern treatment methods including immunotherapy and emergency response strategies. Learn how to identify triggers, manage reactions, and prevent severe allergic episodes effectively.

Complete Guide to Managing Allergic Reactions

Understanding Allergies and How to Respond

Allergies happen when the immune system reacts excessively to harmless substances called allergens. Our defenses originally evolved to combat bacteria and fungi, but sometimes they overreact to environmental triggers like pollen or chemicals such as dyes and solvents. This response releases histamine, leading to swelling, fluid leakage, and common allergy symptoms. In severe cases, it can cause anaphylaxis—a life-threatening emergency that demands immediate medical attention.

Managing Immune System Overreactions (Allergic Responses)

Standard treatments include antihistamines that block histamine from binding to cells.

Common side effects are drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation. Elderly patients or those with other health conditions should be cautious, especially if thyroid issues or diabetes are present.

New-generation non-drowsy antihistamines offer symptom relief without impairing alertness.

Advances in Treatment Strategies

Recent approaches emphasize avoiding allergens and identifying triggers to prevent reactions.

For seasonal allergies caused by pollen, avoidance measures are crucial.

People allergic to insect stings should carry epinephrine auto-injectors and know how to use them. Wearing protective clothing outdoors is recommended.

Immune System Desensitization (Immunotherapy)

This process helps train the immune system to become less sensitive to allergens.

Allergen triggers are identified via skin testing, where injections of suspected allergens are given. Redness indicates sensitivity.

Confirmed allergens are injected weekly over several weeks, then less frequently over months or years, spanning 3-5 years.

Methods include subcutaneous injections and Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT), with allergen tablets placed under the tongue for quick absorption, effective for hay fever and seasonal allergies.

Recognizing and Responding to Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis triggers a severe immune response, causing shock, low blood pressure, swelling, rapid heartbeat, tongue swelling, and breathing problems.

Symptoms include hives, itching, dizziness, and vomiting. Immediate injection of epinephrine and emergency care are vital.

Carrying an epinephrine auto-injector is essential for those with severe allergies.

Additional Treatment Options

Corticosteroids may be used with antihistamines during severe reactions.

Mast cell stabilizers are new medications that prevent chemical release from immune cells and need regular use.

Leukotriene inhibitors help reduce inflammation, alleviating nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose.