RISK FACTORS FOR ALLERGY 

The development of sensitisation and allergy is the result of complex gene- environment interaction. There is lower sensitisation in children who live in farms, exposed to external environment much earlier, earlier bacterial and viral infections leading to greater tolerance.There are potential allergens (usually protein containing particles) and irritants. Irritants enhance the development of sensitisation and allergy.

1. GENETIC FACTORS - the most common factor, predisposing the subsequent generations to early development of sensitisation and allergy. This genetic predisposition to sensitisation and allergy is called ‘Atopy’. Such children are more prone to develop allergy if certain foods are introduced in early infancy like - bovine milk, formula milk, eggs, dry fruits, fish, shell fish etc.

2. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS - Both indoor and outdoor pollutions contribute to allergy. But INDOOR pollution is more significant. Lesser time spent in outdoor with nature, increases allergies. Indoor allergens are house dust mites, fungi, cockroaches. Pets are significant contributors to allergies. Irritants may be smoke- tocacco, agarbatti, mosquito coils, strong perfumes and cleaning solvents etc. outdoor allergens are mainly pollens, and irritants are automobile pollution 

3. WESTERNISATION of Life style-  like more time spent indoors, junk foods, processed and packaged foods, obesity, lack of physical activities 

4. DISTURBED MICROFLORA- especially our gut flora, due to excessive misuse of antibiotics in early life, lack of fermented foods, excessive use of processed and packaged foods 

5. CLIMATE CHANGES - Global warming associated with disturbed rains, Winds and air pollution.

6. Disturbed Skin Barrier- Dryness of Skin