There are many of us allergic to one or more of various things, such as specific foods and animals, with a wide range of how intense the reaction can be, and how serious it is. But why are only some people allergic to things, while others are not, and what biologically causes these allergic reactions to occur? Continue reading to find out!
What Exactly Are Allergies?
Allergic reactions are a result of our body's immune response to certain substances, which are called allergens. These allergens can be foods, medications, pollen, or other substances that our body mistakenly identifies as harmful, causing it to overreact and activate its immune system in order to destroy the allergen. When the allergens enter the body, antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE) are produced by the body to fight off these substances that it thinks may cause harm. The allergens bind to these antibodies, which release chemicals that trigger the allergic response. As a result, various physical reactions can become visible as our bodies go into action to protect us from potential harm due to these allergens.
Allergic Reactions
When we know we're allergic to something, we try our best to avoid it to prevent the triggering of allergic reactions, which can range from runny noses and itchy eyes to much more serious reactions, including hives and difficulty breathing.
These reactions can either occur minutes after exposure to the allergen, or up to 4 hours. They usually cause inflammation and irritation, but specific reactions vary depending on the type of allergen. For instance, seasonal allergies, which peak during spring months when the pollen concentration in the air is higher, can result in symptoms such as stuffy noses, itchy eyes, and coughs after exposure. On the other hand, food allergies can cause vomiting, swelling of the lips and throat, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. Allergies to medication can lead to wheezing, rashes, and itchiness; and more reactions vary between other allergens.
However, some reactions can be more serious than others, with the most severe being anaphylaxis, which impacts the skin and respiratory system the most. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include hives, difficulty breathing, swelling, low blood pressure, irregular heart rates, dizziness/fainting, and even loss of consciousness. In these instances, it is important to recognize the systems and seek for treatment as soon as possible to prevent the reaction from becoming life-threatening.
Factors That Cause Allergies
Allergies are mostly heretic, meaning that they are passed down through genes. If you have a family history of asthma or allergies, you are at a greater risk of having or developing allergies in the future. In addition, children under the age of 18 are more likely to have allergies.
How to Know If You Have Allergies
Other from being aware after experiencing an allergic reaction, you can actually receive tests that can caution you beforehand of your allergies. Doctors can diagnose allergies through tests such as blood tests, skin prick tests, and patch tests, which identify an individual's risk of experience allergic reactions to certain substances. Newborn children often receive these tests so parents know what they should potentially avoid as they grow up.
Treating Allergies
When we are unable to avoid the allergen, seeking medical treatment quickly is the best way to stay safe. Some treatments include medications, which although are unable to cure the allergies completely, help soothe the reaction symptoms. Some people who have more serious allergic reactions carry auto-injectors, common ones known as EpiPens (Epinephrine auto-injectors), to treat potential anaphylaxis. Auto-injectors are best used within a few minutes of the start of the severe reaction, and emergency services should be called as well.
Using An EpiPen
It may be useful to know how to use an EpiPen in the case of someone around you, or even yourself, experiencing a serious allergic reaction. You can be prepared by remembering and practicing these steps from Medical News Today:
Hold it with one fist, making sure that the orange end is pointing down.
With your other hand, remove the blue safety release without any sideway movements, bending, or twisting. Do not use your thumb on the same hand to remove it.
Push the orange end on the individual's outer thigh, the injector forming a right angle with the leg. You will hear a click when the needle comes out of the orange end.
Hold the injector's needle in place for 3 or more seconds.
Make sure to not reuse these auto-injectors! They are to be disposed after one use.
Taking Precautions
If you are aware of your allergies, always try your best to avoid exposure to them. If you are at risk of anaphylaxis to these substances, remember to carry at least 2 auto-injectors wherever you go. Learn how to use them, and teach them to your family and friends that can help you in case a reaction occurs. If you want to be extra careful, you can go to the doctors' and get medically tested to know which substances to avoid beforehand. Remember that it's important to take care of yourself and stay safe!
Resources:
Felman, Adam. “Everything You Need to Know about Allergies.” Medical News Today, 15 Apr. 2020, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/264419#prevention.