Allergies are an overreaction of the immune system to substances that are normally harmless to most people, leading to various symptoms like sneezing, itching, runny nose, body rashes, swelling, or even severe reactions like asthma or anaphylaxis. The substances that cause allergy are called allergens. 

The most commonly seen allergens are pollen, mold spores, dust  mites, animal dander, certain foods, cockroach droppings, insect stings, or some medications. Most of these allergies are environmental and food related. 

In the past few years India has seen an increase in cases of conditions such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, and eczema. Allergic rhinitis being the most common of all, followed by asthma and eczema. According to studies, around 24% of adolescents suffer from allergic rhinitis, while 10% of adults are affected by asthma and eczema.

Here are Some of the Most Commonly Seen Allergies:

  • Dust Allergy: This is one of the most common allergies caused due to dust mites, which are microbes present in bedding, carpets, curtains, and furniture. When inhaled, they may lead to allergic symptoms like sneezing, running nose, redness and itching of eyes and sometimes shortness of breath and wheezing. The symptoms are exaggerated in people who have pre-existing asthma or respiratory issues. People who have dust allergy need to regularly clean their beddings and furniture, use air purifiers and if required use Antihistamine nasal sprays.
  • Pollen Allergy: This is the second most common type of allergy which is caused by exposure to pollen grains from plants and trees. There is a seasonal spike seen especially during spring and autumn seasons. Clinical presentation mainly involves the upper respiratory tract in the form of sneezing, running nose, itchy and red eyes and sometimes cough. People who have pollen allergy should avoid outdoor activities during the pollen season, keep windows and doors closed at home and use air purifiers to prevent the pollen entry into their body. Antihistamines and nasal decongestants may help relieve the symptoms.
  • Food Allergy: The most common food allergens include milk, peanuts, eggs, shellfish, wheat, and soy. The symptoms start after the consumption of the food item, symptoms include itching or swelling of lips or tongue, hives in skin, pain in abdomen, vomiting, diarrhoea and anaphylaxis shock in severe cases. People who have certain food allergies should avoid those food items, read labels carefully before consuming food from outside, carry antihistamine with them and if the allergic reaction is severe then immediately visit the Doctor. 
  • Skin allergy: Usually triggered by some chemicals which are commonly present in soaps, detergents or cosmetics. Sometimes it could be due to latex or certain fabrics. The skin becomes itchy, dry and rashes develop on exposure to the allergen. People who have these allergies should start using fragrance free soaps and detergents and mild shampoos. Applying moisturizer and use of antihistamine or prescribed steroid creams can help relieve the symptoms. 
  • Mold Allergy: This kind of allergy is caused by exposure to mold spores, which mainly grow in damp and poorly ventilated spaces like bathrooms, kitchens or outdoor compost. On exposure to the allergen people may experience sneezing, cold like symptoms, watery eyes or sometimes skin rashes as well. If somebody has pre-existing asthma, this can worsen the symptoms. People with such allergies can use humidifiers at home when atmospheric humidity is high and keep the mold prone surfaces clean with disinfectants. 
  • Insect Sting Allergy: This is caused by insects such as bees, wasps, and ants. The symptoms may range from mild redness, swellings and itchy rash at the store of sting in some people, to breathing difficulties, fainting and anaphylactic shock in some. Wear protective clothing outdoors, insect repellents and immediately seek medical help if the symptoms are severe. 
  • Pet Allergy: The skin flakes, saliva, urine, or fur of animals like cats and dogs may act as an allergen for some people. Symptoms may include a runny or stuffy nose, itchy watery eyes, cough or skin rashes. If you are a pet owner and have this kind of allergy then limit the access of pets in the bedroom or on your bed or other furniture, bathe the pets regularly, use air filters, wash hands after touching your pet and consult a Doctor for long term allergy control solutions.

Conclusion:

Allergies are becoming very common these days, mainly due to environmental pollution, poor hygiene, genetic predisposition, and changing lifestyles. While most of these can be managed effectively without any life threatening complications, constantly dealing with them can affect the quality of life. Creating awareness and adopting preventive measures can significantly improve quality of life for allergy. 

Disclaimer: This article is written by Practo for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.