Allergies

Allergy is a response of the defence system to certain substances termed allergens, which usually are harmless. Allergy erupts when your body reacts to something it is abnormally sensitive to. When you come in contact with any allergen your body will defend itself by releasing substances known as antibodies. The ensuing reaction between antibodies and allergens trigger the release of ‘Histamine’ and other chemicals, which cause the symptoms of allergy.

CAUSES: Environment: Grass pollen, animal hair, feathers, dust mites, chemicals and industrial pollutants and certain plants.

DIET: Almost any food can bring on an allergic response. The commonest being milk, cheese, eggs, nuts, fish and shell-fish, wheat and flour, chocolates and artificial colorants.Other factors: You can be allergic to soaps, perfumes, detergents, insect bites, antibiotics, cosmetics and jewellery.

SIGN AND SYMPTOMS: Sneezing, running nose, irritation and itching in throat and ears ,cough, breathlessness are symptoms of respiratory allergy. Itching, redness, hives, blisters, urticarias, swelling of face and body indicate a skin allergy or food allergy. Stomach ache, nausea, diarrhoea and vomiting is seen in food allergies.

Do’s and Don’ts: There are three steps to be taken when dealing with an allergy. Firstly, identify the cause or allergen Secondly, avoid it. Thirdly, if avoidance is impossible, treat the symptoms. Keep a diary and try to trace a pattern or relation between your allergic reaction and the allergen. Eg. Sneezing while doing housework could mean you are allergic to house dust. Take steps to deal with stress, anxiety and tension as these can influence the frequency and severity of symptoms .
Good nutrition, balanced diet, adequate rest and relaxation will be beneficial.