Allergy
An allergy is a hypersensitivity disorder of the immune system. Allergic reactions occur when a person's immune system reacts to normally harmless substances in the environment. A substance that causes a reaction is called an allergen. These reactions are acquired, predictable, and rapid. Allergy is one of four forms of hypersensitivity and is formally called type I (or immediate) hypersensitivity. Allergic reactions are distinctive because of excessive activation of certain white blood cells called mast cells and basophils by a type of antibody called Immunoglobulin E (IgE). This reaction results in an inflammatory response which can range from uncomfortable to dangerous.
Mild allergies like hay fever are very common in the human population and cause symptoms such as red eyes, itchiness, and runny nose, eczema,hives, or an asthma attack. Allergies can play a major role in conditions such as asthma. In some people, severe allergies to environmental or dietary allergens or to medication may result in life-threatening reactions called anaphylaxis. Food allergies, and reactions to the venom of stinging insectssuch as wasps and bees are often associated with these severe reactions.
A variety of tests exist to diagnose allergic conditions. If done they should be ordered and interpreted in light of a person's history of exposure as many positive test results do not mean a clinically significant allergy. Tests include placing possible allergens on the skin and looking for a reaction such as swelling and blood tests to look for an allergen-specific IgE.
Treatments for allergies include avoiding known allergens, steroids that modify the immune system in general, and medications such asantihistamines and decongestants which reduce symptoms. Many of these medications are taken by mouth, although epinephrine, which is used to treat anaphylactic reactions, is injected. Immunotherapy uses injected allergens to desensitize the body's response.
How to Avoid Pollen
Pollen doesn't mean to bug you. It's there to help plants reproduce. But if you inhale it, it can cause allergy symptoms such as:
5 Ways to Keep Pollen Out of Your Home
If you have to be outside, minimize your exposure to pollen.
Mild allergies like hay fever are very common in the human population and cause symptoms such as red eyes, itchiness, and runny nose, eczema,hives, or an asthma attack. Allergies can play a major role in conditions such as asthma. In some people, severe allergies to environmental or dietary allergens or to medication may result in life-threatening reactions called anaphylaxis. Food allergies, and reactions to the venom of stinging insectssuch as wasps and bees are often associated with these severe reactions.
A variety of tests exist to diagnose allergic conditions. If done they should be ordered and interpreted in light of a person's history of exposure as many positive test results do not mean a clinically significant allergy. Tests include placing possible allergens on the skin and looking for a reaction such as swelling and blood tests to look for an allergen-specific IgE.
Treatments for allergies include avoiding known allergens, steroids that modify the immune system in general, and medications such asantihistamines and decongestants which reduce symptoms. Many of these medications are taken by mouth, although epinephrine, which is used to treat anaphylactic reactions, is injected. Immunotherapy uses injected allergens to desensitize the body's response.
How to Avoid Pollen
Pollen doesn't mean to bug you. It's there to help plants reproduce. But if you inhale it, it can cause allergy symptoms such as:
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Itchy throat
- Cough
5 Ways to Keep Pollen Out of Your Home
- Close your windows and outside doors.
- Avoid using window and attic fans during pollen season. Use air-conditioning to cool your home.
- Roll up your car windows when driving. Use the air-conditioning, if you need it.
- Dry clothing and bedding in the dryer. Don't hang them outside.
- Remember that pets can bring in pollen on their fur, too. Don't allow pets that spend time outdoors in your bedroom.
If you have to be outside, minimize your exposure to pollen.
- Check pollen counts before planning outdoor activities.
- Avoid being outdoors in the early morning, when pollen is most widespread.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen.
- Have someone else mow your grass. Don't rake leaves during pollen season. If you must do yard work, wear a mask.
- Going on vacation? Look for a place where pollen is low, such as the beach, or take your medications with you.
- Change your clothing when you come indoors. Shower and wash your hair first.