Allergies

Globe Medicine - An allergy happens when the body’s immune system produces an exaggerated response to a normally harmless substance (allergen).

Large amounts of antibodies are generated, and powerful inflammatory chemicals released. The result? Itchy ears, nose and throat; sneezing, runny or blocked nose; headache; cough, sore throat and hoarseness; dark circles under the eyes and conjunctivitis.

Over the long term, recurrent sinusitis, middle ear infections and sleep apnoea can result too. The rates of allergy are increasing worldwide, affecting 35% of people at some stage. 

There is also a genetic predisposition – there is a 33% risk for a child with one allergic parent and a 70% risk if both parents are allergic. 

Other hypotheses include hygiene (inadequate exposure to environmental microorganisms due to overuse of antimicrobial agents, vaccinations and hygienic food preparation), processed foods and environmental pollutants.

Treatment includes avoiding and reducing allergens where possible. This can be challenging sometimes. 

For instance, it is difficult for an outdoor lover to avoid tree and grass pollen, and for someone to steer clear of pet dander floating from home miles away, as the allergen is present for as long as four months after removal of the animals. Face masks and medications are helpful; the latter usually include nasal rinses, antihistamines, decongestants, corticosteroids and leukotriene inhibitors. 

Many patients confuse nasal steroid sprays with anabolic oral steroids. Nasal steroid sprays are not associated with the more significant side effects of oral steroids, and can be safely used from two years of age if appropriately dosed.

Immunotherapy (oral or injectable) can significantly reduce the allergic reactions for longer term control of allergies and reduce the need for daily medications.