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ABSTRACT –

An allergy is the immune response in reaction to any foreign body. The immune system generates antibodies to protect against unwanted invaders. The seriousness of allergy varies from person to person that can range from minor irritation to a major life threatening disease.

CAUSES –

1. Certain foods such as peanuts, soy, fish and dairy products sometimes
2. Environmental Factors and weather changes
3. Toxins and medications
4. Non-food Proteins such as latex

RISK FACTORS –

1. Hereditary and Genetic factors
2. Low immunity
3. Pre-existing Asthma can trigger allergies
4. Environmental factors

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS –

1. Sneezing
2. Itchiness in eyes, nose, upper section of mouth and all over body
3. Watery or swollen eyes, runny nose
4. Anaphylaxis
5. Cough
6. Breathing issue
7. Rashes

DIAGNOSIS –

1. 1. Skin Test/ Puncture Testing/ Prick Testing –

A metal device is used to puncture specific areas of skin and then allergens are subjected in those areas. If the patient is allergic to those allergens, then it will result into inflammation within 30 minutes.

1. 1. Patch Testing –

It is usually used to test delayed reaction of the skin.

1. 1. Blood Test
   2. Challenge testing-

Suspected allergens are introduced in small amounts to the body orally or by inhalation and other routes.

TREATMENT –

Medication-

1. Antihistamines – These are available in form of tablets, capsules, creams, eye drops, nasal sprays.
2. Decongestant – Short term treatment for blocked nose due to some allergic reaction
3. Lotions and creams
4. Steroids

RISK FACTORS –

1. Smoking
2. Genetics
3. Exposure to Allergens
4. Diet and certain foods

EPIDEMIOLOGY –

10-40% of population gets affected from Allergies globally as per the estimation by The World Allergy Organization (WAO).