This archive report was first published on 12 May 2020.
Living with Allergies: A Personal Story ¶
As a child, I was aware of allergies due to my own experiences with dust. I would cough and sneeze whenever I was exposed to it. This allergy persisted into adulthood, and I've since seen my daughter develop similar allergies.
Her symptoms include sneezing, a runny and stuffy nose, and sometimes a cough when exposed to cold and dust. Managing her allergies while allowing her to enjoy childhood is a challenge I face daily.
What are Allergies? ¶
According to Very well health, allergies are an abnormal immune system response to foreign substances that are normally harmless. Your immune system identifies these substances as harmful, triggering a reaction to protect your body.
Causes of Allergies ¶
One can be allergic to various substances, including dust, pollen, mold, animal dander, some foods, latex, and certain medications. Other allergens include metals, plant resin, and insect stings.
Common Symptoms of Allergies ¶
When your body reacts to these allergens, it releases chemicals like histamine and leukotrienes, producing symptoms. These vary depending on the allergen, but common symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, swelling, hives, rash, and itchiness.
Treatment Options for Allergies ¶
Before treating an allergy, a diagnosis is necessary. It's essential to note any unusual reactions to substances and report them to your doctor. The simplest way to treat allergies is to avoid contact with allergens. Antihistamines are often given to manage symptoms, and nasal sprays and saline solutions help relieve nasal congestion.
For skin allergies, doctors may prescribe topical steroid creams. Immunotherapy, a series of injections, helps your body get used to your allergy. Epinephrine is used in severe, life-threatening allergic reactions to keep patients safe until medical assistance is received.
