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Allergy is an inappropriate reaction of our immune system to allergens, i.e. substances that cause allergic symptoms. There are several types of allergies, so the symptoms are not the same for everyone. It is similar with the therapy, which should be tailored to the current, individual needs of our body.
Allergies are caused by allergens that penetrate our body and cause our immune system to defend itself against them. The response time to allergens varies, as do symptoms. In order to recognize the type of allergy, it is necessary to carefully observe and analyze the symptoms, of course, it is also necessary to visit a specialist doctor, an allergist.
Allergens – types of allergens
Allergens are divided into three groups, depending on the way they enter the body. That is why there are contact allergens, i.e. those that trigger an allergic reaction in contact with the skin. First of all, these are metals, for example nickel. Very often, contact allergens appear in cosmetics, household chemicals and perfumes. Other allergens are food allergens. It is a large group that causes an allergic reaction and is absorbed by the body along with a meal. The most common food allergens include seafood, wheat, strawberries, fish, soybeans, and an allergy to cow protein. Allergens contained in nuts are the most dangerous because they can even cause anaphylactic shock to an allergic person. Do you want to check if you have an allergy without leaving your home? Try the mail-order diagnosis of food allergy – tests for 10 allergens. Another group are inhalation allergens that enter our body through the respiratory system. This type of allergy occurs indoors because it is caused by dust mites, for example in the dust. Inhalation allergy includes allergy to animal hair. Outside, allergy sufferers will find allergens in the pollen of grasses, blooming flowers, trees or shrubs.
It happens that the so-called cross-reactions, i.e. allergic reactions to allergens with a similar biochemical structure. In such cases, there is an allergic reaction caused by an allergen other than the one to which we are allergic.
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On the topic of allergies read: To have adrenaline and not hesitate to use it
Allergens – allergy symptoms
Symptoms, their intensity, and the time they appear depends on what allergen or allergens caused the allergic state. What symptoms suggest that we are allergic to a given product, ingredient or fragrance? The most common symptom is hay fever, which is a colorless fluid from the nose. Runny nose is accompanied by paroxysmal sneezing, itching of the nose, runny nose is often combined with a dry cough. Another group of allergic symptoms is rash (most often small red spots, but there are also widespread patches). The rash is itchy. With food allergies, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation may also appear.
Correct diagnosis in allergies is initially difficult, because allergens may appear at certain places, times, and it may be difficult for the patient to identify what, when and where caused the allergic reaction. The first test to be carried out is a blood test and the determination of IgE, i.e. the determination of the amount of antibodies in the body. Increased amounts of antibodies may indicate an allergy. You should go to an allergist who will refer you to IgE laboratory tests and order patch tests or allergy panels. Such tests allow you to check several or even several dozen allergens. You can also check the body’s reaction to specific allergens by skin testing, which involves applying the allergen directly to the skin.
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