Allergy

Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to substances that are normally harmless, triggering a range of symptoms. These symptoms can vary depending on the type of allergy and the severity of the reaction. Common allergy symptoms include:

Hay Fever (Allergic Rhinitis):

Sneezing

Runny or congested nose

Itchy or watery eyes

Nasal congestion

Postnasal drip

Sinus pressure or pain

Skin Allergies:

Itchy, red, or swollen skin

Hives (raised, itchy welts)

Eczema (dry, scaly, inflamed skin)

Rash or irritation

Food Allergies:

Tingling or itching in the mouth

Difficulty swallowing or breathing

Abdominal pain or cramps

Nausea or vomiting

Diarrhea

Insect Sting Allergies:

Pain or swelling at the sting site

Itching or hives

Flushing of the skin

Swelling of the face, throat, or tongue

Difficulty breathing

Anaphylaxis (a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction)

Drug Allergies:

Rash or hives

Itching

Wheezing or difficulty breathing

Anaphylaxis

Allergy testing is performed to identify specific allergens triggering allergic reactions. There are several types of allergy tests:

Skin Tests:

Skin prick test: A small amount of allergen extract is pricked into the skin, and the reaction is observed after 15-20 minutes.

Intradermal test: A small amount of allergen extract is injected into the skin.

Patch test: Allergens are applied to patches, which are then placed on the skin for 48 hours to detect delayed allergic reactions.

Blood Tests:

IgE antibody test: Measures the levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies specific to certain allergens in the blood.

Radioallergosorbent test (RAST): Similar to IgE antibody test, but uses radioactive isotopes to measure IgE levels.

Elimination Diet:

Involves removing suspected food allergens from the diet for a certain period, then gradually reintroducing them while monitoring for allergic reactions.

Challenge Tests:

Oral food challenge: The suspected food allergen is consumed under medical supervision to confirm or rule out a food allergy.

Drug challenge: The suspected medication is administered in a controlled setting to evaluate for allergic reactions.

It's essential to consult an allergist or immunologist for proper evaluation and testing if you suspect allergies. They can determine the most appropriate tests based on your medical history, symptoms, and suspected allergens. Allergy testing can help identify triggers and guide treatment strategies, including avoidance measures, medications, immunotherapy (allergy shots), or emergency action plans for severe allergic reactions.