Allergy to cats is congenital or acquired. Features of treatment of acquired allergies

Allergy is a disease whose source of origin is still the subject of endless debate in scientific circles. Finding the root cause is of great importance in the treatment of this disease, since by eliminating it a person can forget about this disease forever. Therefore, experts say that if you completely eliminate the causes of the occurrence, you can completely defeat allergies.

What is an allergy?

Allergy is a disease associated with the development of an incorrect response of the human immune system to a variety of substances. Substances that are beneficial or neutral are considered in this case as harmful and dangerous. In this regard, the immune system begins to build protection, giving a signal for the production of antibodies, the main task of which is to destroy dangerous substances.

At the same time, any food, pollen of flowering plants, animal hair, dust, medications, water, cold and many other irritants can be perceived as a harmful substance.

In the process of studying this disease, scientists found that an allergic reaction is not one disease, it consists of a large group of pathological conditions of the body, among which can be identified: urticaria and dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma and other diseases.

What all these diseases have in common is that they are caused by a special reaction of the immune system, when elements that are not dangerous are perceived as hostile.

As a result, the amount of protective proteins called immunoglobulins increases in the human blood. An allergen that enters the body activates their production, resulting in an allergic reaction.

How does an allergy manifest itself?

In each individual case, the manifestation of allergies occurs differently. This largely depends on the individual characteristics of the human body and the method of penetration of the “dangerous” substance. That is, the allergen can penetrate inside with food, water or medications, it can enter through the respiratory tract with inhaled air, or there may be some external irritant, such as cold or sun.

The main signs of an allergic reaction can be identified:

1. Anaphylactic. In this case, the body’s reaction to the penetration of the allergen is lightning fast and pronounced. Within a few minutes, a person may break out in hives, tissue swelling, bronchial asthma and anaphylactic shock occur. This condition is very dangerous and requires immediate medical attention;
2. Cytotoxic. The development of the reaction is slower than in the first case. An example of such an allergic reaction is hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, jaundice in newborns, various complications when taking medications and blood transfusions;
3. Immunocomplex. The development of this reaction takes from several hours to several days. The main diseases are allergic conjunctivitis, rheumatoid arthritis, allergic dermatitis;
4. Delayed reactions. The manifestation of the disease begins one day after the allergen enters the body. The main diseases are contact dermatitis, rhinitis and bronchial asthma;
5. Stimulating. This type of disease differs from all of the above in that the antibodies produced by the human immune system begin to directly affect the functioning of organs. They can slow down or activate the work of necessary receptors. Most a clear example activation of organs is toxic goiter.

Causes of allergies in children

It is difficult to answer this question, since each child is individual and has his own body characteristics, and therefore the reasons for the development of allergies. The appearance of this disease is influenced by a huge number of different factors, but very often it is hereditary predisposition that predominates among them.

Those children whose families are diagnosed with diseases such as bronchial asthma, eczema, dermatitis, urticaria and neurodermatitis are at risk. If the baby's mother has atopic dermatitis, and her sister is allergic to pollen, then the likelihood that the child will develop some type of allergy is very high.

Being at risk does not mean getting the disease. To do this, it is necessary to protect the baby from harmful influences that can trigger an incorrect reaction in the body.

There is nothing complicated about this:

• during pregnancy future mom should eat honey and citrus fruits with caution;
• leave the child as long as possible breastfeeding;
• smoking ban in the house;
• do not clutter the children's room with carpets and soft toys, as these items are prone to dust accumulation;
• do not have pets.

In addition to the genetic factor, the development of allergies in a baby can begin due to the early introduction of complementary foods, when the child’s body is not yet completely ready for adult food, or due to the incorrect selection of formula for artificial feeding.

It is possible that the expectant mother did not eat properly during pregnancy, or took any medications, or perhaps suffered from an infectious disease.

The baby’s immune system is formed throughout pregnancy, so antibodies produced by the mother’s body to the penetration of microbes, viruses or other dangerous elements can be transmitted to the baby and then provoke an allergic reaction.

Also important are the factors environment, such as severe air and water pollution, or eating pesticide-laden fruits and vegetables.

Seasonal allergies in adults

Very often, people suffer from allergy symptoms not all year round, but during certain periods of the year; such allergies are called seasonal. It is caused by certain substances characteristic of this particular time of year. These substances include pollen and mold.

A pronounced reaction of the body to pollen is called hay fever. When plants bloom, their pollen enters the air and is carried by the wind over long distances. For a person with increased sensitivity to pollen, it is enough to inhale a small dose to trigger an allergic reaction.

The lush flowering of vegetation usually begins in early spring and lasts until October. Pollen from the following plants has a pronounced allergic effect:

The main reason for such harmful effects of pollen is the protein that is found in its composition. Once the protein gets on the mucous membrane, it provokes an allergic reaction in the form of a runny nose, cough, hives, and tissue swelling.

Causes of persistent allergies in adults

Allergies, regardless of season, are very diverse. Consequently, there are many reasons that cause its manifestation. The most common among them are reactions to foods, medications, animal fur and skin, dust and ultraviolet radiation.

Food allergies in adults are much less common than in children, and many experts believe that they develop due to improper functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. And the main reason is intestinal dysbacteriosis. At the same time, doctors will not rule out hereditary causes affecting the disease and organization poor nutrition V early childhood.

Allergies to animal fur and skin are considered year-round. The cause of its occurrence is not the wool itself, but the protein secreted by the animal’s body. Upon contact with human mucous membranes, it causes symptoms of the disease. Protein is excreted in saliva and urine.

Cat hygiene involves licking its fur, so that protein from the saliva gets onto the pet, and then onto the objects around it. If the patient excludes contact with a pet, then he completely gets rid of allergies.

A fairly common year-round allergen is dust. It consists of microparticles of food, dead skin of humans and animals, hair, and small mites. After inhaling air enriched with such an additive, an allergic reaction occurs.

It is impossible to completely get rid of dust, but reducing its amount is quite possible. To do this, you do not need to have carpets, soft toys and furniture in the house. It may be worth purchasing various air purifiers and then the allergic reaction will be less noticeable or disappear.

Acquired allergy

Quite often the question arises: “Is it possible to acquire an allergy?” Of course yes! One of the main factors in the development of acquired allergies is the improper use of medications.

People very often make their own diagnoses and then make personal decisions about treating the disease. As a result of uncontrolled use of antibiotics, hormonal or steroid drugs, the human immune system suffers severe damage, which leads to its malfunction.

The development of the disease is also possible with constant contact with some kind of chemical irritant or excessive use of household chemicals. In such cases, local allergies appear in certain areas of the skin.

Another important factor is overeating certain foods in early childhood. Since children digestive system If the child is fully formed only by the age of three, excessive consumption of chocolate, citrus fruits and spices can lead to the development of food allergies in adulthood.

Acquired allergies and the causes of their occurrence often manifest themselves against the background of a hormonal imbalance in the body, or after suffering from certain infectious diseases.

Psychological causes of the disease

To the question: “Does allergies have psychological causes of origin?” we can confidently give a positive answer.

In the case of psychological allergies, the response occurs without penetration into the body dangerous substance. This process is called pseudoallergy. At the same time, the body releases histamine, inflammatory processes begin and all allergy symptoms appear.

Classical medicine identified “nerve allergies” in separate species diseases of this group, the root causes of which include stress, emotional experiences, disruptions in work nervous system person.

A disturbance in the psychological state can affect the development of a true allergic reaction.

Features of treatment of acquired allergies

An allergic reaction develops in response to the body’s interaction with a provoking factor, an allergen. It can be absolutely any substance. However, the entry of even a very aggressive agent into the body of a healthy person does not cause the development of an allergic reaction.

Despite the widespread prevalence of the disease, the causes of allergies are very little studied. Conventionally, a distinction is made between its congenital and acquired forms. Congenital allergies are spoken of when a genetic factor in its development is clearly visible.

The presence of allergies in one of the parents means that 40% of children may suffer from this pathology. If both parents suffer from this disease, then up to 80% of patients may be allergic. In order to more effectively combat acquired allergies, it is necessary to find out the reasons for its development.

Factors contributing to the development of acquired allergies

Factors that most often predispose to the development of acquired allergies:

• existing concomitant pathology from other organs and systems, especially from the gastrointestinal tract;
• use in everyday life of a large number of chemically synthesized products (detergents, aerosols, fragrances, varnishes, etc.);
• use in diet products with non-natural ingredients, such as dyes, flavor enhancers, preservatives;
• professional activity in chemical and pharmaceutical production;
• dustiness of cities.

In some cases, the patient develops an allergic reaction already at the first encounter with the allergen, in others, a response occurs after some time, when the concentration of the allergen in the body reaches a certain value.

Thus, it is quite difficult to find out whether an allergy is acquired, or whether the mechanisms of its development were laid down at birth.

Allergy is an individual disease. People react differently to the same allergen. In some it causes the development of hay fever, in others - urticaria. For acquired allergies, the most typical form is food, medicinal, although pollen is also very widespread.

Principles of allergy treatment

The principles of treatment for acquired allergies are the same as for the congenital form and include the following:

1. Elimination of allergen;
2. Prescribing medications;
3. Conducting specific immunotherapy;
4. Preventive actions.

In the case when the allergen is identified, the most effective treatment is to eliminate it. If we are talking about a food product, medicine, household chemicals or pet hair, then these measures are quite realistic.

It is much more difficult in the case of pollen allergies, when it is not possible to carry out climatotherapy, that is, change your place of residence.

In these cases in an effective way The only thing left to help the patient is the prescription medicines.

Among the drugs used in the treatment of any type of allergy, antihistamines come to the fore. These can be tablets such as

With the development of allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, eye or nasal drops Allergodil, Histimet are used. Fenistil gel is used to treat skin manifestations.

In severe cases of the disease, they resort to prescribing corticosteroid drugs. Due to quite serious side effects, they try to prescribe them in short courses.

However, topical corticosteroids beclomethasone and fluticasone are used quite widely, since they do not have such disadvantages and are quite effective, especially for pollen allergies. Lokoid and Triderm ointments are used as preparations for external treatment.

For food allergies great importance received the use of sorbents, medicines that attract harmful substances and immune complexes circulating in the body with their surface. Enterosgel, Polysorb, activated carbon are drugs that can quickly improve the patient’s condition with this form of allergy.

The most effective method in the fight against allergies today is specific immunotherapy. It consists of taking small doses of the allergen for a long time, thus developing the body’s addiction.

Its most important disadvantage is the duration of treatment from 3 to 5 years and the impossibility of such treatment during an exacerbation, so as not to cause an even greater deterioration in well-being.

Complete treatment of acquired allergies is impossible without preventive measures. Based on the factors leading to the development of this type of allergy, they should include the following:

1. Following a hypoallergenic diet;
2. Sanitation of foci of chronic infection;
3. Treatment of concomitant pathologies;
4. Carrying out general strengthening activities.

Compliance with these requirements will help avoid the development of an allergic reaction, as well as reduce the number and duration of exacerbations of the disease.

It is easier for a person with a strong immune system and no serious concomitant pathology to resist the action of an allergen.

Allergy treatment is a long process. However, the joint efforts of the patient and the allergist will certainly lead to results in the fight against this disease.

What to do if the allergy does not go away?

You suffer from sneezing, coughing, itching, rashes and redness of the skin, and maybe your allergies are even more serious. And isolating the allergen is unpleasant or completely impossible.

In addition, allergies lead to diseases such as asthma, urticaria, and dermatitis. And for some reason the recommended medications are not effective in your case and do not combat the cause in any way...

How the body can react to the vaccine.

As a result, a similar disease occurs.

Differences between immediate and delayed type allergies.

Symptoms and treatment of accumulative allergies.

Comments, feedback and discussions

Finogenova Angelina: “In 2 weeks I completely cured my allergies and got a fluffy cat without expensive drugs and procedures. It was simple enough. ” Read more>>

For the prevention and treatment of allergic diseases, our readers recommend using the product “ Alergyx“. Unlike other products, Alergyx shows lasting and stable results. Already on the 5th day of use, allergy symptoms decrease, and after 1 course it goes away completely. The product can be used both for prevention and for relieving acute manifestations.

What is the danger of acquired allergies and how to deal with them?

Very often people suffer from various ailments, but they are indifferent to allergies. Why is that? Many people believe that allergic reactions are not so important, just take a pill and the symptoms will disappear. Is it so?

Acquired allergy, its symptoms

Experts distinguish between two types of allergies: acquired and congenital. It should be clarified that congenital is transmitted genetically if there were people in the family up to the third generation who suffered from this disease. The second type is much more difficult. Acquired allergies tend to return after a certain time, and the reason for this is disruption internal organs.

Most often, allergies occur due to an inflammatory process in the intestines caused by dysbiosis. If you have an allergy, you may experience the following symptoms:

• Frequent itching in the nose
• Frequent and unexplained bouts of sneezing
• A runny nose that lasts more than a week
• Itchy eyelids
• Eye redness and watery eyes
• Difficulty breathing and swelling in the face and hands
• Various skin rashes accompanied by itching

Important! If you have symptoms that indicate an allergy, you should immediately consult a doctor to find out exactly what caused the reaction.

By visiting a doctor and passing all the necessary tests, you can hope for the right treatment. The main allergens are:

• Cow's milk
• Dog and cat fur
• Alcohol
• Sun
• Various indoor plants

An allergy to cow's milk can occur in both infants and adults. The sensitivity of the immune system to this product increases, thereby causing an allergic reaction.

Important! Milk contains about 25 allergens. In 90% of cases, children under 3 years old suffer from a reaction to milk.

Dust allergies are one of the most common. Dust settles on almost all household items in the room. Therefore, anything can cause an allergy.

Allergies to dog and cat fur are also very common. Dogs and cats are quite powerful allergens for humans. Allergies can be caused not only by fur, but also by saliva, possibly even dead skin cells.

Alcohol allergies are rare, but the consequences can be fatal. It appears in people who long time drink low-quality alcoholic drinks that contain additives, flavors and colorings.

Allergy to the sun occurs most often in people with fair skin who are ill diabetes mellitus, cirrhosis of the liver, those who are overweight, and in people who often visit the solarium.

Allergies to indoor plants are quite common, since many people, creating an atmosphere of nature in their home, do not pay attention to the body’s reaction to these plants. The cause of allergies is pollen, which is carried in the air during the flowering period.

Important! These are the most striking and common examples of acquired allergies. The human body can react to anything if the immune system is weakened and there are problems with the intestines.

Treatment and prevention

Allergies need to be dealt with immediately after they are discovered. There are many medications that relieve symptoms within minutes. However, in order for it to work well, you should trust the doctor’s prescriptions. In addition, you need to adhere to some rules that will help reduce the impact of allergens on the body:

• The living space (apartment, house) must be clean
• Ventilate rooms several times a day
• Carry out wet cleaning daily
• Clean carpets and sofas from animal hair (if any)
• Avoid spices, spicy foods, partly meat and dishes that contain a lot of dyes

If you have a food allergy, you need to reduce your consumption of seafood (crabs, crayfish, squid), cow's milk, sea ​​fish(pike perch, cod). And also give up citrus fruits (orange, lemon, tangerine), nuts, chocolate and legumes.

Acquired allergies can be easily treated; you only need to contact an allergist and immunologist for help after the first symptoms.

Acquired allergies: the most common allergens

Allergies are becoming increasingly common among seemingly healthy populations. In some cases, it proceeds rather sluggishly, expressed only by tears and a seasonal runny nose or sneezing upon contact with an irritant. In others it can take on fatal forms and even lead to death. Acquired allergies are no less dangerous than congenital ones, and sometimes carry even more serious consequences.

Acquired allergies often occur against the background of hormonal imbalances, stomach diseases and other disorders of the immune system. As a result, the body may be exposed to much more severe allergens. The answer to the question of whether it is possible to acquire an allergy is clear from scientists - if the body’s functions are impaired, even at 70 years old it can appear.

The main symptoms of acquired allergies

Often acquired allergies can manifest themselves with the following symptoms:

• unpleasant and regular itching in the nose;
• itching sensation in the eyes and eyelids;
• tears, redness, inability to look normally, as well as conjunctivitis;
• an incomprehensible runny nose that cannot be treated for a week or more;
• severe bouts of sneezing;
• More serious signs of an acute reaction may include swelling of the hands and face, heavy breathing;
• skin rashes that itch.

To make an accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to take tests for immune markers, since some symptoms can be caused by simple stress and overwork.

Allergy diagnosis

Acquired allergies to cats and dogs, as well as other fur-covered pets, are very common. It is inferior only to congenital allergies to certain types of foods - milk, citrus fruits. At any age, allergies can develop to several main components:

• dust;
• milk;
• wool;
• alcohol;
• antibiotics;
• Sun;
• plants.

Milk contains more than 2 dozen different allergens. By the way, this type of allergic reaction is often congenital. But determining whether an allergy is congenital or acquired is very simple in this case. Few children ever come into contact with milk...

Allergies to animals - dogs and cats - can occur very often, as well as to food products. This usually happens, as in other cases of acquiring allergies, due to weakened immunity, disruption of the intestines and other internal organs. Symptoms can be caused not only by fur, but also by other animal secretions.

Reactions to alcohol are less common, but the consequences can be the most dangerous due to prolonged use of low-quality drinks. Allergy to the sun is more common in pale people, as well as in patients with diabetes, cirrhosis, excess weight, and excessive use of solariums.

Allergies to plants can be the most insidious, since many representatives of the flora are often mixed in one room. However, people do not always pay attention to unpleasant symptoms or take a long time to identify the cause. But the matter may be in the simplest myrtle or another plant that can exude essential oils or pollen.

Treatment of acquired allergies

Often allergies are associated not only with external irritants and physical illnesses, but also with a psychological state. When a person is “out of place”, something constantly dissatisfied him, the body can react in this way to unpleasant conditions.

If an examination was carried out, but no allergies to cats or other factors were identified, then you can contact a psychotherapist. In other cases, a doctor will help you fight allergies. In case of severe symptoms, medications are prescribed, and the allergen is necessarily eliminated from the surrounding area.

Treatment of acquired allergies, which have been and gone, must be carried out diligently and comprehensively. It is this type of reaction of the human body that is often able to return again and again, producing even greater consequences and each time increasing its “strength”.

How to understand whether an allergy can be acquired and is there still a chance to have animals?

I have this question. I will be very grateful for your responses! We had a cat and a dog for many years, and I didn’t have any problems. But about 10 years ago (then my animals were no longer there) I began to have severe coughing attacks in the sun, from the smell of paint, from dust in a furniture store, near the road, where the air was polluted.. People said that I turned green at these moments, they thought that I was dying. I was very scared. No asthma. But I have been very dependent on air all these years. I don’t go anywhere, in the summer I only go home with air conditioning. Does this mean that I will no longer be able to communicate with cats and dogs?

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You need to get tested for allergens. Identify the allergen and there is a chance to cure it. A friend had an allergy to dogs, but this allergy (I don’t know how, but they are not poor people) was cured in a year or two. So there's a chance.

As a mother of an allergic child with a cat, I write: allergies accumulate, i.e. can accumulate and “break through” and give a reaction.
First, we need to do tests on animals. Moreover, you can make tests for a specific animal (bring a tuft of wool with you - find out in the laboratory)
Secondly, not all animals are equally allergic. There are hypoallergenic breeds - these are Siberian cats and poodles (there are some others, but I don’t understand). Less allergic are light-colored, castrated females. We passed tests and adopted a light-colored cat, groomed her, and so far we are living normally.
It happens that there is an allergy to cats and not to dogs, and vice versa

It also happens that a person overcomes an allergy to a free cat, i.e. At first there is an allergy, then it goes away with your own, but with others it goes away. if you want to adopt an animal, then do tests, caste (by age) and take it where, in case of allergies, you can return it back

There are also anti-allergenic sprays. Spray on the animal and calmly coexist

Spray yourself.

The inner surface of the nose is covered with a huge number of small vessels. When an allergen or antigen enters the nasal cavity, the vessels of the nasal mucosa dilate and blood flow increases, this is a kind of defense system of the immune system. A large influx of blood causes swelling of the mucous membrane and provokes copious mucus secretion. Decongestants act on the walls of mucosal vessels, causing them to narrow, which reduces blood flow and reduces swelling.

These drugs are not recommended for children under 12 years of age, as well as for nursing mothers and people with hypertension. It is also not recommended to use these drugs for more than 5-7 days, since with prolonged use they can cause a backlash and increase swelling of the nasal mucosa.

These drugs may also cause side effects, such as: dry mouth, headaches, and weakness. Very rarely, they can cause hallucinations or an anaphylactic reaction.

You should consult your doctor before starting to use these medications.

Leukotriene inhibitors(Montelukast (Singular) - represent chemical substances, which block reactions caused by leukotrienes (leukotrienes are substances released by the body during an allergic reaction and causing inflammation and swelling of the airways). Most often used in treatment bronchial asthma. Leukotriene inhibitors can be taken together with other medications, as no interactions have been found with them. Adverse reactions are extremely rare and may include a headache, earache, or sore throat.

Steroid sprays(Beclomethasone (Beconas, Beclazon), Flucatisone (Nazarel, Flixonase, Avamis), Mometasone (Momat, Nasonex, Asmanex)) - these drugs are essentially hormonal drugs. Their action is to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, thereby reducing symptoms allergic reactions, namely nasal congestion. The absorption of these drugs is minimal so that all possible adverse reactions disappear, however, with long-term use of these drugs, in rare cases, such adverse reactions as nosebleeds or sore throat are possible. Before using these medications, it is advisable to consult your doctor.

Hyposensitization(immunotherapy) - In addition to avoiding contact with allergens and drug treatment There is such a treatment method as: immunotherapy. This method involves the gradual, long-term introduction of gradually increasing amounts of allergens into your body, which will lead to a decrease in the sensitivity of your body to a given allergen.

This procedure involves the administration of small doses of the allergen in the form of a subcutaneous injection. Initially, you will be given injections at intervals of a week or less, while the dose of the allergen will be constantly increased, this regimen will be followed until a “maintenance dose” is reached, this is the dose at which there is a pronounced effect of reducing the usual allergic reaction. However, once this “maintenance dose” is reached, it will need to be administered every few weeks for at least another 2-2.5 years. This treatment method is usually prescribed when a person has a severe form of allergy that does not respond well to conventional treatment, as well as for certain types of allergies, such as allergies to bee stings, wasp stings. This type treatment should only be carried out in a specialized medical institution under the supervision of a group of specialists, since this treatment method can provoke a severe allergic reaction.

Anaphylaxis(Anaphylactic shock)

This is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. People most often affected by anaphylaxis are:

• Respiratory tract (provokes spasms and pulmonary edema)
• Act of breathing (breathing disorder, shortness of breath)
• Blood circulation (decreased blood pressure)

The mechanism of development of anaphylaxis is the same as that of an allergic reaction, only the manifestation of anaphylaxis is tens of times more pronounced than with ordinary, even quite strong allergic reactions.

Causes of anaphylaxis

The causes are generally similar to common allergic reactions, but it is worth highlighting the causes that most often cause anaphylactic reactions:

• Insect bites
• Certain types of food
• Some types of medications
• Contrast agents used in diagnostic medical studies

Insect bites– despite the fact that the bite of any insect can cause an anaphylactic reaction, bee and wasp stings are the cause of anaphylactic shock in the vast majority. According to statistics, only 1 in 100 people have an allergic reaction to a bee or wasp sting, and only a very small number of people have an allergic reaction that develops into anaphylaxis.

Food– Peanuts are the main cause of anaphylactic reactions among foods. However, there are a number of other foods that can cause anaphylaxis:

• Walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds and Brazil nuts
• Milk
• Shellfish and crab meat

The following products are the least likely to cause an anaphylactic reaction:

• Bananas, grapes and strawberries

Medications – there are a number of medications that can trigger the development of anaphylactic reactions:

• Antibiotics (most often from the penicillin series ( penicillin, ampicillin, bicilin))
• Anesthetics (substances used during operations, intravenous anesthetics Thiopental, Ketamine, Propofol and inhalational anesthetics Sevovlurane, Desflurane, Halothane)
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, paracetamol, ibuprofen)
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (drugs used in the treatment of hypertension Captopril, Enalapril, Lisinopril)

People taking any drugs from the above groups, except angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, may cause an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis at the first dose, which will manifest itself within a short time after taking the medication, from several minutes to several hours.
An allergic reaction or anaphylactic shock can be triggered by angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor drugs, even if the patient has been using these drugs for several years.

However, the risk of any allergic reactions when taking any of the above drugs is very low and cannot be compared with the positive medical effects achieved during treatment various diseases.
Eg:

• The risk of developing anaphylaxis when taking penicillin is approximately 1 in 5,000
• When using anesthetics 1 in 10,000
• When using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs 1 in 1500
• When using angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors 1 in 3000

Contrast agents- these are special chemicals that are administered intravenously and are used for a detailed examination of any part of the body or the vessels of any organ. Contrast agents are used in diagnostic medicine most often in studies such as computed tomography, angiography and x-ray examination.

The risk of developing an anaphylactic reaction when using contrast agents is approximately 1 in 10,000.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis

The time at which any symptoms appear depends on the route the allergen enters your body, so an allergen ingested through food can trigger symptoms from a few minutes to several hours, while an insect bite or injection can trigger symptoms within anywhere from 2 to 30 minutes. Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the reaction; in some people they may be mild itching and swelling, and in some they can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include the following:

• Red rash with severe itching
• Swelling in the eye area, swelling of the lips and limbs
• Narrowing, swelling and spasms of the airways that can cause difficulty breathing
• Feeling of a lump in the throat
• Nausea and vomiting
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Feeling of fear
• A sudden drop in blood pressure, which can lead to severe weakness, dizziness and loss of consciousness

Diagnosis of anaphylaxis

At this stage of medical development, it is not possible to determine in advance whether you will develop anaphylaxis. The diagnosis of anaphylaxis is made already during the onset of an anaphylactic reaction based on symptoms, or after the reaction has occurred. Monitoring the development of all symptoms is also not possible, since in most cases they lead to a sharp deterioration in health and can lead to death, so it is necessary to immediately begin treatment at the first signs of this disease.

After the occurrence and treatment of an anaphylactic reaction, studies are carried out aimed at detecting the allergen that caused this reaction. If this is your first manifestation of anaphylaxis and allergies in general, you will be prescribed a range of tests used to make an allergy diagnosis, including some of the following specific tests:

• Skin tests
• Blood test for IgE
• Skin or patch tests (Patch-testing)
• Provocative tests

The main goal of the study after an anaphylactic reaction is to detect the allergen that caused this reaction, also depending on the severity of the reaction to detect the allergen, it is necessary to use the safest possible test to in order to avoid a repeat reaction. The safest test is:

Radioallergosorbent test (RAST) This study makes it possible to determine the allergen that caused an anaphylactic reaction as follows: a sample is taken from the patient a large number of blood, then small amounts of suspected allergens are placed in this blood; if a reaction occurs, namely the release of a large amount of antibodies, the identified allergen is considered the cause of the reaction.

Treatment of anaphylactic shock

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and requires immediate qualified medical attention.

If you notice any of the symptoms in yourself or someone else, you must immediately call an ambulance.

If you notice possible reason symptoms develop, such as a bee sting site with a protruding sting, it is necessary to remove it.

If you, as an allergy sufferer or a survivor of anaphylactic shock, or a victim, have adrenaline auto-injectors, you must immediately administer a dose of the drug intramuscularly. These autoinjectors include:

• EpiPen
• Anapen
• Jext

If any of them is available, one dose must be administered immediately (one dose = one injector). It should be injected into the thigh muscle on the dorsal lateral surface; injection into adipose tissue should be avoided as then no effect will follow. Please read the instructions carefully before use for correct execution introduction. After administration, it is necessary to fix the injector within 10 seconds in the same position in which the drug was administered. For most people, the condition should improve within a few minutes after administering the drug; if this does not happen, you will need to re-administer another dose of the drug if you have another auto-injector.

If a person is unconscious, it is necessary to turn him on his side, bending the leg on which he lies at the knee and placing the hand on which he lies under his head. This way he will be protected from vomit entering the respiratory tract. If a person is not breathing or has no pulse, resuscitation measures must be carried out, but only if you know how to do this, resuscitation measures are carried out until breathing and a pulse appear or until the ambulance team arrives.

Treatment in a hospital will be carried out with drugs similar to those used in the treatment of allergies.

Typically, the patient can be discharged from the hospital 2-3 days after anaphylaxis.
If you know allergens that can cause you an allergic reaction or even that can cause anaphylactic shock, you should avoid contact with them as much as possible.

How long does an allergy last?

In general, allergies as a disease can last a lifetime. In this case, allergy means hypersensitivity of the patient’s body to certain substances. Since such sensitivity is an individual characteristic of the body, it persists for a very long time, and the body will always react with the appearance of corresponding symptoms upon repeated contact with the allergen. Sometimes allergies can only be in childhood or during periods of serious disturbances in the functioning of the immune system. Then it goes away within a few years, but the risk of a reaction upon repeated contact in the future still remains. Sometimes, with age, the intensity of the manifestations of the disease simply decreases, although the body’s increased sensitivity still remains.

If by allergy we mean its symptoms and manifestations, then their duration is very difficult to predict, since this is influenced by many different factors. The functioning of the immune system and the pathological mechanisms underlying allergic reactions are not fully understood. Therefore, no specialist can give a guarantee when the manifestations of the disease will disappear.

The duration of the allergic reaction is affected by the following factors:

• Contact with an allergen. Everyone knows that an allergic reaction occurs due to contact of the body with a specific substance - an allergen. The first contact in life does not cause an allergic reaction, since the body “gets to know” and recognizes the foreign substance. However, repeated contact leads to the appearance of pathological changes, since the body already has a set of necessary antibodies ( substances that react with the allergen). The longer the contact with the allergen, the longer the symptoms will be. For example, an allergy to pollen will last the entire flowering period of a certain plant if a person is constantly outdoors. If you try to spend more time at home, away from forests and fields, then contact with the allergen will be minimal, and the symptoms will disappear faster.
• Allergy form. Allergic reactions after contact with an allergen can take various forms. Each of these forms has a certain duration. For example, hives can last from a few hours to several weeks. Watery eyes, coughing and irritation of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract are usually caused by the allergen and disappear within a few days after stopping contact with it. An attack of bronchial asthma caused by allergens can last several minutes ( less than hours) after termination of contact. Angioedema ( Quincke's edema) occurs upon contact with an allergen and is characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the subcutaneous fatty tissue. After the start of treatment, it stops increasing, but completely resolves only after a few days ( sometimes hours). Anaphylactic shock is the most severe but short-lived allergic reaction of the body. Vasodilation, drop in blood pressure and breathing difficulties do not last long, but without medical attention they can lead to the death of the patient.
• Treatment effectiveness. The duration of the allergy manifestation largely depends on what drugs are used to treat the disease. The most rapid effect is observed from glucocorticoid drugs ( prednisolone, dexamethasone, etc.). That is why they are used for severe allergic reactions that threaten the patient’s life. Antihistamines act somewhat slower ( suprastin, erolin, clemastine). The effect of these drugs is weaker, and allergy symptoms will disappear gradually. But more often, antihistamines are prescribed for allergies, since glucocorticoids are similar in action to a number of hormones, which is why they can cause serious side effects. The sooner treatment is started, the faster it will be possible to eliminate allergy symptoms.
• Immune system status. A number of diseases of the thyroid, adrenal glands and other endocrine glands ( endocrine glands), as well as some pathologies of the immune system can affect the duration of allergy manifestations. When they occur, systemic disorders are observed that enhance the body’s immune response to various substances. Treatment of such pathologies will also lead to the disappearance of allergic manifestations.

To get rid of allergies faster, you should first consult an allergist. Only a specialist in this field can identify the specific allergen or allergens and prescribe the most effective treatment. Self-medication for allergies not only leads to a longer course of the disease, but also does not make it possible to avoid repeated contact with the allergen. After all, the patient can only guess what he is allergic to, but does not know for sure. Only a visit to the doctor and a special test will help determine which substance you should be wary of.

How quickly does an allergy appear?

There are several stages in the development of an allergic reaction, each of which is characterized by certain processes in the body. Upon first contact with the allergen ( a substance to which the body is pathologically sensitive) symptoms usually do not appear. The allergy itself occurs after repeated ( second and all subsequent) contact with an allergen. The time of onset of symptoms is very difficult to predict, since it depends on many different factors.

Upon repeated contact with an allergen, the body begins to release special substances, class E immunoglobulins ( IgE). They affect several types of cells scattered throughout the body, destroying their membrane. As a result, so-called mediator substances are released, the most important of which is histamine. Under the influence of histamine, the permeability of the vascular walls is disrupted, and some of the fluid leaves the dilated capillaries into the intercellular space. This causes swelling. Histamine also stimulates the contraction of smooth muscle in the bronchi, which can cause breathing difficulties. This whole chain takes some time. Nowadays, there are 4 types of allergic reactions. In three of them, all biochemical processes occur quickly. In one, a so-called delayed-type immune reaction occurs.

The rate of occurrence of various manifestations of allergies is influenced by the following factors:

• Type of allergic reaction.There are 4 types of allergic reactions. Usually immediate reactions predominate.
• Allergen quantity. This dependence not always visible. Sometimes even a small amount of an allergen causes certain symptoms to appear almost instantly. For example, when a wasp stings ( if a person is allergic to their poison) almost immediately there is severe pain, redness, severe swelling, and sometimes rash and itching. In general, however, it is fair to say that the more allergen that enters the body, the faster symptoms will appear.
• Type of contact with allergen. This factor is very important, since in different tissues of the body there is different quantity immunocompetent cells that recognize the allergen. If such a substance comes into contact with the skin, for example, itching or redness will appear after a longer time. Inhalation of pollen, dust, exhaust gases ( contact of the allergen with the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract) can almost instantly cause an attack of bronchial asthma or rapidly increasing swelling of the mucous membrane. When an allergen is introduced into the blood ( for example, contrast in some diagnostic procedures) anaphylactic shock also develops very quickly.
• Clinical form of allergy. Each of the possible allergy symptoms is a consequence of exposure to mediators. But it takes different times for symptoms to appear. For example, redness of the skin is due to the dilation of capillaries, which can occur very quickly. The smooth muscles of the bronchi also contract rapidly, causing an asthma attack. But swelling occurs due to the gradual seepage of fluid through the walls of blood vessels. It takes more time to develop. Food allergies usually do not appear immediately. This is due to the digestion of food and the release of the allergen ( it is usually a component of the product) takes time.
• Individual characteristics of the body. Each body has a different number of cells, mediators and receptors that take part in an allergic reaction. Therefore, exposure to the same allergen in the same doses in different patients can cause the appearance of different symptoms and at different intervals.

Thus, it is very difficult to predict when the first allergy symptoms will appear. Most often we are talking about minutes or, less often, hours. When a large dose of an allergen is administered intravenously ( contrast, antibiotic, other medications) the reaction develops almost instantly. Sometimes it takes several days for an allergic reaction to develop. This most often applies to skin manifestations of food allergies.

What can't you eat if you have allergies?

Nutrition and proper diet are the most important component of treatment for food allergies. However, even if you are allergic to substances that do not enter the body with food, proper nutrition has a certain meaning. The fact is that most people suffering from allergies have a hereditary predisposition to this disease and certain individual characteristics in the functioning of the immune system. Because of this, there is a high chance that their body is hypersensitive to several different allergens ( substances that provoke manifestations of the disease). Following a diet allows you to avoid eating foods that are potentially strong allergens.

For patients with any form of allergy, it is advisable to exclude the following foods from their diet:

• Most seafood. Seafood contains a very large amount of various microelements and vitamins. This explains their benefits for most people. However, it should be remembered that contact with new substances puts a strain on the immune system, and for people with allergies, there is an additional risk of exacerbation of the disease. You should limit your consumption of fish ( especially sea), and from caviar and seaweed It's better to give up completely.
• Dairy products. They should be consumed in moderation. Fresh milk and homemade fermented milk products should be completely abandoned. They contain a large amount of natural proteins, which are potential allergens. Factory-made dairy products go through several stages of processing, during which some of the proteins are destroyed. The risk of allergies remains, but is significantly reduced.
• Canned foods. Most industrial canned food is prepared with the addition of a large number of food additives. They are necessary to preserve the taste of products, extend shelf life and other commercial purposes. These additives are harmless to a healthy person, but they are potentially strong allergens.
• Some fruits and berries. A fairly common option is an allergy to strawberries, sea buckthorn, melon, and pineapples. Sometimes it manifests itself even when eating dishes made from these products ( compotes, jams, etc.). Citrus fruits are very strong potential allergens ( oranges, etc.). In this case, it will be regarded as a full-fledged food allergy. However, even for people, say, with allergies to bee stings or pollen, consuming these products is undesirable due to the burden on the immune system.
• Products with a large number of nutritional additives. A number of products already include a wide range of different chemical food additives in their production technology. These include sweetened carbonated drinks, marmalade, chocolate, and chewing gum. All of them contain a large number of dyes, which themselves can be allergens. Sometimes sweeteners and dyes are found even in improperly prepared dried fruits.
• Honey. Honey is a fairly common allergen, so it should be consumed with caution. You need to be equally wary of nuts and mushrooms. These products contain many unique substances that the body rarely comes into contact with. The risk of developing an allergy to such substances is much higher.

It would seem that the diet of patients with allergic diseases should be quite meager. However, this is not entirely true. The above products are not strictly prohibited. Patients should just carefully monitor their condition after consuming them and not eat them often and in large quantities. More strict diet with the complete exclusion of this series of products, it is recommended to observe during exacerbations of allergies ( especially after angioedema, anaphylactic shock and other dangerous forms of the disease). This will be a kind of precautionary measure.

If you have a food allergy, you need to completely exclude those foods that contain a specific allergen. For example, if a patient is allergic to strawberries, they should not eat strawberry ice cream or drink fruit tea with strawberry leaves or flowers. You need to be very careful to avoid contact with even small amounts of the allergen. In this case, we are talking specifically about pathological sensitivity to a previously known substance. Modern treatments can help gradually get rid of this problem ( for example, using immunotherapy). But for preventive purposes, the diet should still be followed. More precise instructions regarding permitted products for a particular patient can only be given by an allergist after all the necessary tests have been carried out.

Do allergies happen during pregnancy?

Allergic reactions in pregnant women are quite common. In principle, allergies rarely appear for the first time after conception. Usually women already know about their problem and notify their doctor about it. With timely intervention, diagnosis and treatment of allergic reactions during pregnancy are completely safe for both mother and fetus. Moreover, if the mother is allergic to any drugs that are used to eliminate serious problems, treatment may well be continued. They will simply add additional medications to the course that eliminate the manifestations of such allergies. In each individual case, doctors determine separately how to manage the patient. There are no uniform standards due to the wide variety of forms of the disease and the varying conditions of patients.

In pregnant women, allergies can take the following forms:

• Bronchial asthma. This disease may be of an allergic nature. It usually occurs when an allergen is inhaled, but can also be a consequence of skin or food contact. The cause of the disease and the main problem is spasm of smooth muscles in the walls of the bronchioles ( small air passages in the lungs). Because of this, breathing difficulties arise, which in severe cases can result in the death of the patient. In case of pregnancy, prolonged breath holding is also dangerous for the fetus.
• Hives. Represents a skin allergic reaction. Most often it occurs in pregnant women in the last trimester. Itchy rashes appear on the stomach, less often on the limbs, which cause a lot of discomfort. This form of allergy is usually easily relieved with antihistamines and does not pose a serious threat to the mother or fetus.
• Angioedema ( Quincke's edema). It occurs mainly in women with a hereditary predisposition to this disease. Edema can be localized in almost any part of the body where there is a lot of subcutaneous tissue. The most dangerous swelling is in the upper respiratory tract, as it can lead to respiratory arrest and hypoxic damage to the fetus. In general, this form of allergy in pregnant women is quite rare.
• Rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis is a very common problem in pregnant women. This form is especially common in the 2nd – 3rd trimester. Rhinitis is caused by allergen contact with the nasal mucosa. As a result, swelling occurs, fluid begins to leak from the dilated capillaries, and nasal discharge appears. At the same time, breathing difficulties arise.

Thus, some forms of allergies in pregnant women can be dangerous for the fetus. That is why it is recommended to consult a doctor at the first manifestations of the disease. medical care. If the patient knows that she has an allergy, then it is possible to prescribe certain medications prophylactically to prevent an exacerbation of the disease. Of course, it is necessary to avoid contact with known allergens at all costs. If contact does occur, the focus is on adequate and prompt medical treatment.

Options for drug treatment of exacerbations in various forms of allergies in pregnant women

Allergy form	Recommended drugs and treatment
Bronchial asthma	Inhalation forms of beclomethasone, epinephrine, terbutaline, theophylline. In severe cases of the disease - prednisone ( first daily, and after the main symptoms are relieved - every other day), methylprednisolone extended ( prolonged) actions.
Rhinitis	Diphenhydramine ( diphenhydramine), chlorpheniramine, beclomethasone intranasally ( baconase and its analogues).
Bacterial complications of rhinitis, sinusitis, bronchitis (including purulent forms)	Antibiotics for the treatment of bacterial complications - ampicillin, amoxicillin, erythromycin, cefaclor. Ideally, an antibiogram is done to select the most effective drug and the most effective course. However, antibiotics are started even before the results are received ( then, if necessary, the drug is changed). Beclomethasone is indicated locally ( baconase) to eliminate an allergic reaction.
Angioedema	Subcutaneous epinephrine ( urgently), restoration of airway patency if swelling of the mucous membrane of the throat is observed.
Hives	Diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine, tripelenamine. In more severe cases, ephedrine and terbutaline. For prolonged periods, prednisone may be prescribed.

Very important point When managing pregnant women with allergies, childbirth is the most important aspect. The fact is that in order to successfully carry out this procedure ( or caesarean section, if planned in a particular case) you will need to administer a large number of drugs ( including anesthesia if necessary). Therefore, it is important to notify the anesthesiologist about previous use of anti-allergy medications. This will allow you to optimally select drugs and doses, eliminating the risk of adverse reactions and complications.

The most severe type of allergic reaction is anaphylaxis. It manifests itself as serious circulatory disorders. Due to the rapid expansion of capillaries, blood pressure decreases. At the same time, breathing problems may occur. This creates a serious threat to the fetus, since it does not receive enough blood and, accordingly, oxygen. According to statistics, anaphylaxis in pregnant women is most often caused by the administration of any pharmacological drug. This is quite natural, since at different stages of pregnancy a woman receives a significant amount of different medications.

Anaphylaxis in pregnant women is most often caused by the following medications:

• penicillin;
• oxytocin;
• fentanyl;
• dextran;
• cefotetan;
• phytomenadione.

Treatment of anaphylactic shock in pregnant women is practically no different from that in other patients. To restore blood flow and quickly eliminate the threat, epinephrine must be administered. It will narrow the capillaries, dilate the bronchioles and increase the pressure. If anaphylaxis occurs in the third trimester, the possibility of a cesarean section should be considered. This will avoid danger to the fetus.

Why are allergies dangerous?

In most cases, patients with allergies do not see their disease as particularly dangerous. This is due to the fact that severe cases of allergies that actually threaten the health or life of the patient are extremely rare. However, the danger should not be ignored. Evidence shows that people who have suffered from hay fever or eczema for years may develop anaphylactic shock ( the most severe type of allergic reaction) upon new contact with the same allergen. It is quite difficult to explain this phenomenon, since the mechanism of development of allergic reactions has not yet been fully studied.

• rash;
• skin redness;
• peeling of the skin;
• nasal discharge;
• burning in the eyes;
• redness of the eyes;
• dry eyes;
• tearfulness;
• sore throat;
• dry mouth;
• dry cough;
• sneezing.

All these symptoms in themselves do not pose a serious threat to the patient's health. They are associated with local destruction of mast cells, mastocytes and other cells involved in the development of an allergic reaction. A special mediator is released from them - histamine, which causes local damage to neighboring cells and corresponding symptoms. However, in severe cases, allergies also affect the functioning of the cardiovascular or respiratory system. Then the disease becomes much more serious.

The most dangerous forms of allergic reactions are:

• Bronchial asthma. Bronchial asthma is a disease in which the small bronchi in the lungs narrow. Often this occurs precisely after contact with allergens, if the patient has hypersensitivity. An asthma attack is a very serious and dangerous condition as it affects breathing. Air does not enter the lungs in sufficient quantities, and the person may suffocate.
• Angioedema ( Quincke's edema) . With this disease, the entry of allergens into the body causes swelling of the subcutaneous fatty tissue. In principle, swelling can develop in almost any part of the body, but most often it is localized on the face. A life-threatening form of Quincke's edema is localized near the windpipe. In this case, due to swelling, the airways will close, and the patient may die.
• Anaphylactic shock. This form of allergic reaction is considered the most dangerous, as various organs and systems are affected. The greatest significance in the development of shock is the sharp expansion of small capillaries and a drop in blood pressure. At the same time, breathing problems may occur. Anaphylactic shock often ends in the death of the patient.

In addition, allergies are dangerous due to bacterial complications. For example, with eczema or rhinitis ( inflammation in the nasal mucosa) local protective barriers weaken. Therefore, microbes that have entered the allergy-damaged cells at this moment receive favorable soil for reproduction and development. Allergic rhinitis can develop into sinusitis or sinusitis with the accumulation of pus in the maxillary sinuses. Skin manifestations of allergies can be complicated by purulent dermatitis. This course of the disease occurs especially often if the patient has itching. In the process of scratching, it further damages the skin and introduces new portions of microbes.

What to do if your child has allergies?

Allergic reactions in children, for a number of reasons, occur much more often than in adults. Most often we are talking about food allergies, but almost all forms of this disease can be found even in early childhood. Before starting treatment for a child with allergies, it is necessary to determine the specific allergen to which the patient’s body is sensitive. To do this, contact an allergist. In some cases, it turns out that the child does not have allergies, but is intolerant to some food. Such pathologies develop according to a different mechanism ( we are talking about a lack of certain enzymes), and their treatment is carried out by pediatricians and gastroenterologists. If an allergy is confirmed, treatment is prescribed taking into account all age-related characteristics.

A special approach to treating allergies in a child is necessary for the following reasons:

• young children are not able to complain about subjective symptoms ( pain, burning in the eyes, itching);
• a child’s immune system is different from the immune system of adults, so the risk of allergies to new foods is higher;
• Due to their curiosity, children often come into contact with various allergens in the house and on the street, so it is difficult to determine what exactly the child is allergic to;
• Some strong allergy suppressants can cause serious side effects in children.

In general, however, allergic reactions in children involve the same mechanisms as in adults. Therefore, priority should be given to the same drugs in appropriate dosages. The main criterion when calculating the dose in this case will be the child’s weight, and not his age.

Of the medications used in the treatment of allergies, preference is given to antihistamines. They block receptors for the main allergy mediator, histamine. As a result, this substance is released, but does not have a pathogenic effect on the tissue, so the symptoms of the disease disappear.

The most common antihistamines are:

• suprastin ( chloropyramine);
• tavegil ( clemastine);
• diphenhydramine ( diphenhydramine);
• diazolin ( mebhydrolin);
• fenkarol ( quifenadine hydrochloride);
• pipolfen ( promethazine);
• arolin ( loratadine).

These drugs are prescribed mainly for allergic reactions that do not threaten the child’s life. They gradually eliminate urticaria, dermatitis ( skin inflammation), itchy, watery eyes or sore throat caused by an allergic reaction. However, in case of serious allergic reactions that pose a threat to life, it is necessary to use other means with a stronger and faster effect.

In emergency situations ( Quincke's edema, anaphylactic shock, bronchial asthma attack) urgent administration of corticosteroids is necessary ( prednisolone, beclomethasone, etc.). Drugs in this group have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. The effect of their use comes much faster. Also, to maintain the functioning of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, it is necessary to administer adrenaline or its analogues ( epinephrine). This will dilate the bronchi and restore breathing during an asthma attack, and increase blood pressure ( important for anaphylactic shock).

With any allergies in children, it is important to remember that the child’s body is more sensitive in many ways than an adult. Therefore, even ordinary manifestations of allergies cannot be ignored ( watery eyes, sneezing, rash). You should immediately consult a doctor who will confirm the diagnosis, give appropriate preventive recommendations and determine the appropriate course of treatment. Self-medication is always dangerous. The growing body's response to an allergen can change with age, and the risk of developing dangerous forms of allergy if not treated correctly is very high.

What are some folk remedies for allergies?

Folk remedies for allergies should be selected depending on the location of the symptoms of this disease. There are a number of medicinal plants that can partly affect the immune system as a whole, reducing the symptoms of allergies. Another group of agents can interrupt the pathological process at the local level. These include ointments and compresses for skin manifestations.

Of the folk remedies that affect the immune system as a whole, the following are most often used:

• Mumiyo. 1 g mumiyo dissolves in 1 l hot water (high-quality product dissolves even in warm water quickly and without sediment). The solution is cooled to room temperature ( 1 – 1.5 hours) and taken orally once a day. It is advisable to take the product in the first hour after waking up. The course lasts 2 – 3 weeks. Single dose for adults – 100 ml. Shilajit solution can also be used to treat allergies in children. Then the dose is reduced to 50 - 70 ml ( depending on body weight). This remedy is not recommended for children under one year of age.
• Peppermint. 10 g dry leaves peppermint pour half a glass of boiling water. Infusion lasts 30 - 40 minutes in a dark place. The product is taken three times a day, 1 tablespoon for several weeks ( if the allergy does not go away for a long time).
• Calendula officinalis. 10 g of dried flowers are poured into a glass of boiling water. Infusion lasts 60 – 90 minutes. The infusion is taken twice a day, 1 tablespoon.
• Swamp duckweed. The plant is collected, washed well, dried and ground into a fine powder. This powder should be taken 1 teaspoon three times a day, washed down with plenty of boiled water ( 1 – 2 glasses).
• Dandelion root. Freshly picked dandelion roots are well scalded with boiling water and ground ( or rub) into a homogeneous paste. Pour 1 tablespoon of this slurry into 1 glass of boiling water and mix thoroughly. The mixture is drunk, shaking before use, 1 glass per day in three doses ( one third of a glass morning, afternoon and evening). The course can last 1 – 2 months if necessary.
• Celery root. 2 tablespoons of crushed root should be poured into 200 ml cold water (approximately 4 - 8 degrees, temperature in the refrigerator). Infusion lasts 2 – 3 hours. During this period, you should avoid direct sunlight on the infusion. After this, the infusion is taken 50–100 ml three times a day, half an hour before meals.

The above remedies are not always effective. The fact is that there are several various types allergic reactions. There is no universal remedy that suppresses all these types. Therefore, you should try several treatment regimens to determine the most effective treatment.

As a rule, these recipes relieve symptoms such as allergic rhinitis ( for allergies to pollen), conjunctivitis ( inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes), asthma attacks. For skin manifestations of allergies, preference should be given to local treatment methods. The most common are compresses, lotions and baths based on medicinal plants.

For skin manifestations of allergies, the following folk remedies best help:

• Dill juice. The juice is best squeezed from young shoots ( in the old ones there is less of it, and more dill will be needed). After squeezing out approximately 1 - 2 tablespoons of juice, they are diluted with water in a ratio of 1 to 2. Gauze is moistened in the resulting mixture, which is then used as a compress. You need to do it 1 - 2 times a day for 10 - 15 minutes.
• Mumiyo. Shilajit can also be used as a lotion for skin allergies. It is diluted in a concentration of 1 to 100 ( 1 g of substance per 100 g of warm water). Clean gauze or a handkerchief is generously moistened with the solution and the affected area of ​​skin is covered. The procedure is done once a day, and it lasts until the compress begins to dry out. The course of treatment lasts 15–20 procedures.
• Pansies. Prepare a concentrated infusion of 5 - 6 tablespoons of dried flowers and 1 liter of boiling water. Infusion lasts 2 – 3 hours. After this, the mixture is shaken, the petals are filtered and poured into a warm bath. Baths should be taken every 1 to 2 days for several weeks.
• Nettle. Mash freshly picked nettle flowers into a paste and pour boiling water over them ( 2 – 3 tablespoons per glass of water). When the infusion has cooled to room temperature, moisten gauze in it and apply lotions to the area of ​​allergic eczema, itching or rash.
• Hop cones. A quarter cup of crushed green hop cones is poured with a glass of boiling water. The resulting mixture is mixed well and left for at least 2 hours. After this, gauze is soaked in the infusion and compresses are applied to the affected area. The procedure is repeated twice a day.

The use of these remedies in many patients gradually eliminates itching, redness of the skin, and eczema. On average, for a noticeable effect you need to carry out 3–4 procedures, and then until the end of the course the goal is to consolidate the result. However, treatment with folk remedies for allergies has a number of tangible disadvantages. It is because of them that self-medication can be dangerous or ineffective.

The disadvantages of treating allergies with folk remedies are:

• Nonspecific action of herbs. Not a single medicinal plant can compare in strength and speed of effect with modern pharmacological drugs. Therefore, treatment with folk remedies, as a rule, lasts longer, and the chances of success are less.
• Risk of new allergic reactions. A person who is allergic to something is usually predisposed to other allergies due to the way the immune system works. Therefore, treatment with folk remedies can lead to contact with new allergens that the patient’s body cannot tolerate. Then the manifestations of allergies will only worsen.
• Masking symptoms. Many of the above folk remedies do not affect the mechanism of allergy development, but only its external manifestations. Thus, the state of health when taking them can only improve externally.

Based on all this, we can conclude that folk remedies are not the best choice in the fight against allergies. With this disease, it is advisable to consult a doctor to determine the specific allergen that the body cannot tolerate. After this, at the request of the patient, the specialist himself can recommend any remedies based on the action of medicinal herbs, which are the safest in this particular case.

Is there a human allergy?

In the classical sense, an allergy is an acute response of the immune system to the body’s contact with any foreign substance. In humans, as a certain biological species, the structure of tissues is very similar. Therefore, there cannot be allergic reactions to the hair, saliva, tears and other biological components of another person. The immune system simply will not detect the foreign material, and the allergic reaction will not start. However, in medical practice, allergies in very sensitive patients may regularly appear when communicating with the same person. However, this has a slightly different explanation.

Each person comes into contact with a very large number of potential allergens. At the same time, the carrier himself does not suspect that he is a carrier of allergens, since his body does not have increased sensitivity to these components. However, for a patient with an allergy, even a tiny amount of a foreign substance is enough to cause severe symptoms of the disease. Most often, such cases are mistaken for “human allergies.” The patient cannot figure out what exactly he is allergic to, and therefore blames the carrier.

Most often, sensitivity to the following allergens is mistaken for human allergies:

• Cosmetics. Cosmetical tools ( even on a natural basis) are strong potential allergens. Contact with lipstick, inhalation of perfume, or tiny particles of powder can be taken as an allergy to a person. Of course, during everyday contact these substances enter the environment in negligible quantities. But the problem is that for people with specific hypersensitivity, even this is enough.
• Industrial dust. Some people who work in manufacturing are carriers of specific allergens. The smallest particles of dust settle on the skin, clothes, linger in the hair, and are inhaled by the lungs. After work, a person, coming into contact with his friends, can transfer dust particles to them. If you are allergic to its components, it may cause a rash, redness of the skin, watery eyes and other typical symptoms.
• Animal fur. The problem of “human allergies” is well known to people with allergies to pets ( cats or dogs). Owners usually have a small amount of their pet's hair or saliva on their clothes. If you are allergic ( person with allergies) comes into contact with the owner, a small amount of the allergen may come into contact with him.
• Medications. Not many people think about what happens in the human body after taking any medications. Having fulfilled their therapeutic function, they are usually metabolized by the body ( bind or split) and are output. They are mainly excreted in urine or feces. But a certain amount of components can be released during breathing, with sweat, tears, sperm or secretions of the vaginal glands. Then contact with these biological fluids is dangerous for a person with an allergy to the medications used. In these cases, it is very difficult to detect the allergen. It is misleading if the patient believes that the rash occurred after, say, contact with the sweat of another person. Indeed, it is easier to mistake this for a human allergy than to trace the path of a specific allergen.

There are other options when a very specific person is a carrier of a specific allergen. Even an allergist is not always able to understand the situation. In these cases, it is important to temporarily stop contact with the “suspect” ( so as not to provoke new manifestations of the disease) and still contact a specialist. An extensive skin test with a large number of different allergens usually helps to identify what exactly the patient is sensitive to. After this, you need to talk in detail with the potential carrier to find out where the allergen could have come from. Changing your perfume or stopping any medications usually solves the problem of “human allergies.”

In rare cases, a person's allergy may occur due to certain mental disorders. Then symptoms such as coughing, sneezing or watery eyes are not caused by contact with any allergen, but by a certain “psychological incompatibility.” At the same time, manifestations of the disease sometimes appear even when a person is mentioned, when physical contact excluded from it. In these cases, we are not talking about allergies, but about mental disorders.

Is there an allergy to alcohol?

There is a common misconception that some people are allergic to alcohol. This is not entirely true, since ethyl alcohol itself, which is meant by alcohol, has a very simple molecular structure and practically cannot become an allergen. Thus, allergies to alcohol, as such, practically do not exist. However, cases of allergies to alcoholic beverages are not uncommon. However, here it is not ethyl alcohol that acts as an allergen, but other substances.

Typically, an allergic reaction to alcoholic beverages is explained as follows:

• Ethyl alcohol is an excellent solvent. Many substances that are insoluble in water dissolve easily and without residue in alcohol. Therefore, any alcoholic drink contains a very large amount of dissolved substances.
• A small amount of allergen sufficient to trigger a reaction. The amount of allergen is not critical for the development of an allergic reaction. In other words, even negligible impurities of any substance in alcohol can cause an allergy. Of course, the more allergen enters the body, the stronger and faster the reaction will appear. But in practice, even very small doses of an allergen sometimes cause anaphylactic shock - the most severe form of an allergic reaction that threatens the patient’s life.
• Low quality control. High-quality alcoholic products always indicate the composition of the drink and the number of ingredients. However, currently the production and sale of alcohol is a very profitable business. Therefore, a significant proportion of products on the market may contain some kind of impurity that is not listed on the label. A person may be allergic to these unknown components. Then it is very difficult to determine the allergen. Alcoholic drinks produced at home are even more dangerous for people with allergies, since the composition is simply not carefully controlled.
• Incorrect storage conditions. As mentioned above, alcohol is a good solvent, and only a small amount of the substance is needed to develop an allergy. If an alcoholic drink is stored incorrectly for a long time ( usually it's about plastic bottles ), some components of the material from which the container is made may get into it. Few buyers know that plastic packaging There is also an expiration date, and they must also be certified. Low-quality plastic or plastic that has expired begins to gradually deteriorate, and complex chemical compounds gradually pass into the contents of the vessel in the form of a solution.
• Drinking alcohol internally. Allergies can occur when various types contact with the allergen. When it comes to drinking alcoholic beverages, the allergen enters the gastrointestinal tract. This contributes to the development of a more intense and faster allergic reaction than if the allergen came into contact with, say, the skin.

IN last years cases of allergies to various alcoholic beverages are becoming more frequent. People with hereditary predisposition or allergies to other substances should be very careful when choosing drinks. It is advisable to exclude those products that contain various natural flavors or additives. As a rule, components such as almonds, some fruits, and barley gluten in beer are strong potential allergens.

Patients may experience the following manifestations of allergies to alcoholic beverages:

• attack of bronchial asthma;
• redness of the skin ( spots);
• hives;
• angioedema ( Quincke's edema);
• anaphylactic shock;
• eczema.

Some doctors note that alcohol may not itself lead to allergic reactions, but rather stimulate their occurrence. According to one theory, in a number of patients, after drinking alcohol, the permeability of the intestinal walls increases. Because of this, more microbes can enter the blood ( or their components), which normally inhabit the human intestine. These microbial components themselves have a certain allergenic potential.

You should consult a doctor if there are any signs of an allergic reaction after drinking alcohol. The fact is that in this case we are often talking about a bad habit ( alcoholism), which is a drug problem, and about allergies that can pose a threat to the health and life of the patient. Therefore, the allergist should, if possible, identify the specific allergen and notify the patient about his sensitivity to this component. The patient will definitely be advised to undergo a course of treatment for alcoholism ( if such a problem exists). Even if in the future he drinks drinks that do not contain the detected allergen, the very influence of alcohol will only aggravate the situation, further disrupting the functioning of the immune system.

Can you die from allergies?

Allergic reactions are an increased response of the immune system to contact with any foreign body. This activates a number of different cells in the human body. It is very difficult to predict the manifestations of an allergic reaction in advance. Often they come down to fairly “harmless” local symptoms. However, in some cases, the increased immune response can affect vital systems of the body. In these cases, there is a risk of death of the patient.

Most often, allergies manifest themselves with the following symptoms:

• runny nose with “watery” nasal discharge;
• the appearance of spots or rashes on the skin;
• dry cough;
• inflammation of the mucous membranes.

All these manifestations can seriously worsen the patient’s quality of life, but they are not life-threatening. In this case, there is a local release of a special substance from the cells - histamine ( as well as a number of others, less active substances ). They cause local expansion of capillaries, increased permeability of their walls, spasm of smooth muscles and other pathological reactions.

In some patients the reaction is more severe. Biological mediators released during allergies disrupt the functioning of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Symptoms typical of ordinary allergies simply do not have time to develop, as much more dangerous disorders come to the fore. This condition is called anaphylactic shock or anaphylaxis.

Anaphylactic shock is the most severe form of allergy and without special treatment can lead to the death of the patient within 10 to 15 minutes. According to statistics, the probability of death without first aid reaches 15–20%. Death during anaphylactic shock occurs due to the rapid expansion of capillaries, a drop in blood pressure, and, as a consequence, a cessation of oxygen supply to tissues. In addition, a spasm of the smooth muscles of the bronchi often occurs, which causes the airways to narrow and the patient practically stops breathing.

The main distinguishing features of anaphylactic shock from ordinary allergies are:

• rapid spread of redness or swelling at the site of contact with the allergen;
• breathing problems ( noisy breathing, shortness of breath);
• drop in blood pressure ( disappearance of pulse);
• loss of consciousness;
• sharp paleness of the skin, sometimes blueness of the fingertips.

All these symptoms are not typical for a local allergic reaction. If possible, the patient is given assistance on the spot ( if necessary medications are available) or urgently call an ambulance for hospitalization. Otherwise, anaphylactic shock can be fatal.

Another dangerous form of allergy is Quincke's edema. With it, the same mechanisms lead to rapidly increasing swelling of the subcutaneous tissue. Swelling may appear in various parts of the body ( on eyelids, lips, genitals). This reaction in rare cases can also lead to the death of the patient. This happens mainly in children when the swelling spreads to the mucous membrane of the larynx. The swollen mucous membrane closes the airway, and the patient simply suffocates.

Are there any allergies to medications?

Allergic reactions to medications are a fairly common problem in modern world. Almost 10% of all side effects from various drugs are allergic in nature. This high frequency is also facilitated by the fact that nowadays people receive a large amount of pharmacological products from childhood. Because of this, there is a higher chance that the body will develop pathological sensitivity to certain components of the drugs.

Allergies to medications are considered very dangerous phenomenon. It often takes serious forms ( Quincke's edema, anaphylaxis), threatening the patient's life. If contact occurs at home, there is a risk of death. In medical institutions, the risk is less, since any department must have a special first aid kit for anaphylactic shock.


The danger of allergies to medications is due to the following reasons:

• many medications are administered intravenously in large quantities;
• modern medications have a high-molecular structure and a strong potential for provoking allergic reactions;
• patients who are allergic to a certain drug are already sick ( because the drug is prescribed for a disease), therefore they suffer an allergic reaction even more severely;
• frequency of anaphylactic shock ( the most dangerous form of allergy) higher than with allergies to other substances;
• many doctors neglect special tests for drug tolerance and immediately administer large doses of drugs to patients;
• neutralize the effect of certain drugs and completely remove them from the body within short term it can be difficult;
• Much of today's pharmaceutical products come from the so-called black market and may therefore contain various impurities ( which cause allergic reactions);
• It is difficult to immediately diagnose an allergy to a drug, since it can give other side effects of a non-allergic nature;
• sometimes patients are forced to take medications to which they are allergic, simply because there are no effective analogues against the underlying disease.

According to modern research, it is believed that the risk of developing hypersensitivity to a particular drug after its first use averages 2 – 3%. However, it is not the same for different pharmacological groups. The fact is that some medications contain natural ingredients or high molecular weight compounds. They have a higher potential to trigger allergies. Other drugs have a relatively simple chemical composition. This makes them safer.
);

local anesthetics ( lidocaine, novocaine, etc.).

Many other drugs can also cause allergic reactions, but much less frequently. Sometimes even drugs with low molecular weight can cause allergies due to the impurities they contain.

Manifestations of drug allergies can be very diverse. Immediate reactions include anaphylactic shock, acute urticaria or angioedema ( Quincke's edema), which may appear within the first minutes after administration of the drug. Within 3 days after contact, so-called accelerated reactions may occur. Their manifestations range from a minor rash or spots on the body to a fever with severe general condition. The latter is more common if the drug is taken regularly. There are also cases of delayed reactions that develop only a few days after administration of the drug.

The severity of allergy symptoms to medications is very difficult to predict. It is also almost impossible to predict in advance a patient's sensitivity to a particular drug. The fact is that some drugs do not detect their allergic activity in reactions in vitro with the patient’s blood. Intradermal tests can also be false negative. This is due to the influence of many different factors ( both external and internal).

The likelihood of an allergy and the severity of its manifestations may depend on the following factors:

• patient's age;
• patient's gender;
• genetic factors ( hereditary predisposition to allergies in general);
• accompanying illnesses;
• social factors ( place of work - doctors or pharmacists are more likely to come into contact with drugs, and the likelihood of developing specific sensitivities is higher);
• simultaneous use of several medications;
• duration of first contact with a certain medication;
• quality of medicine ( largely depends on the manufacturer);
• shelf life of the drug;
• method of drug administration ( on the skin, subcutaneously, orally, intramuscularly, intravenously);
• drug dose ( does not play a decisive role);
• metabolism of the drug in the body ( how quickly and by what organs it is normally excreted).

The best way to avoid drug allergies is good health. The less sick a person is, the less often he comes into contact with various medications, and the less likely he is to develop allergies. Additionally, before using a potentially dangerous drug ( especially serum and other drugs containing complete antigens) a special skin test is performed, which most often allows one to suspect an allergy. Small doses are administered fractionally intradermally and subcutaneously. In case of hypersensitivity, the patient will experience severe swelling, pain, and redness at the injection site. If the patient knows that he is allergic to certain drugs, he must notify the doctor about this before starting treatment. Sometimes patients, not hearing a familiar name, are not worried about this. However, there are many analogues of drugs with different trade names. They can cause serious allergic reactions. Only a qualified doctor or pharmacist can figure out which drugs are best to prescribe.

Are there allergies to water, air, sun?

Allergic reactions by their nature are a consequence of activation of the immune system. They are triggered by contact of certain substances ( allergens) with specific receptors in the skin, mucous membranes or blood ( depending on how the allergen entered the body). Therefore, there cannot be an allergic reaction to the sun, for example. Sunlight is a stream of waves of a certain spectrum and is not associated with the transfer of matter. We can talk about allergic reactions to water or air conditionally. The fact is that allergens, as a rule, are quite complex in nature. chemical composition substances. Molecules of water or gases from the atmospheric air cannot cause allergic reactions. However, both air and water usually contain a large number of different impurities, which cause allergic reactions.

Over the past decades, several reports have been made of cases of allergies specifically to water molecules. However, most experts question their reliability. Perhaps the researchers simply could not isolate the impurity that causes the allergy. Be that as it may, there are very few such cases, so there is still no reliable information on them. More often we are talking about allergies to substances dissolved in water. In city water supplies this is usually chlorine or its compounds. The composition of well, spring, or river water depends on the specific geographic area. There are, for example, areas with high fluorine content and other chemical elements. People who are allergic to these substances will experience symptoms of illness after contact with ordinary water. At the same time, contact with water in other geographical areas will not cause such a reaction.

An allergy to impurities in water usually manifests itself with the following symptoms:

• dry skin;
• peeling of the skin;
• dermatitis ( skin inflammation);
• the appearance of red spots on the skin;
• the appearance of a rash or blisters;
• digestive disorders ( if the water was drunk);
• swelling of the mucous membrane of the mouth and pharynx ( rarely).

An allergy to air is simply impossible, since it is necessary for breathing and a person with such a disease would not survive. In this case, we are talking about any specific air or the impurities contained in it. It is their exposure that usually causes allergic reactions. Additionally, some people are very sensitive to dry or cold air. Exposure to it can cause allergy-like symptoms in them.

Allergic reactions to air are usually explained by the following mechanisms:

• Impurities in the air. Gases, dust, pollen or other substances that are often present in the air are the most common cause of such allergies. They get on the mucous membrane of the nose, larynx, respiratory tract, skin, and mucous membrane of the eyes. Most often, the patient's eyes become red and watery, a cough, sore throat, and nasal discharge appear. In severe cases, there is also swelling of the mucous membrane of the larynx and an attack of bronchial asthma.
• Dry air. Dry air cannot cause an allergic reaction in the generally accepted sense. Most often, such air simply causes dryness and irritation of the mucous membranes of the throat, nose, and eyes. The fact is that normally ( at humidity 60 – 80%) cells of the mucous membranes secrete special substances that protect tissues from the effects of harmful impurities in the air. Due to dry air, these substances are released in smaller quantities, and irritation occurs. It can also manifest itself as a cough and sore throat. Patients often complain of dry eyes, a feeling foreign body in the eye, redness.
• Cold air. Allergies to cold air exist, although there is no specific allergen that triggers the reaction. It’s just that in some people, exposure to cold air causes the release of histamine from special cells in the tissues. This substance is the main mediator in allergic reactions and causes all the symptoms of the disease. Allergy to cold air is a very rare disease. People suffering from it usually have allergies to other substances. Often they also have some hormonal, nervous or infectious diseases. In other words, there are third-party factors that explain such a non-standard reaction of the body to cold.

Sun allergy is often called photodermatitis. With it, the patient's skin is too sensitive to the sun's rays, so various pathological changes appear. By and large, talking specifically about an allergic reaction in this case is not entirely correct due to the absence of an allergen. But histamine can be released under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, and the symptoms of photodermatitis sometimes closely resemble the skin manifestations of allergies.

Increased sensitivity to sunlight may manifest itself in the following ways:

• the appearance of a rash;
• rapid redness of the skin;
• thickening of the skin ( its coarsening, roughness);
• peeling;
• rapid appearance of pigmentation ( tan, which is usually unevenly distributed in patches).

Such reactions to sunlight usually occur in people with serious congenital diseases ( then this is an individual feature of the body due to a lack or excess of any cells or substances). Photodermatitis can also appear in people with diseases of the endocrine or immune system.

Thus, allergies to water, air or sunlight, by and large, do not exist. More precisely, exposure to these factors under certain conditions can cause symptoms similar to allergies. However, these manifestations do not cause severe attacks of asthma, anaphylactic shock, Quincke's edema and other life-threatening situations. If there is a severe allergic reaction to water or air, it is most likely due to the impurities they contain.

Are allergies inherited?

It is currently believed that the characteristics of the immune system that predispose to the development of allergic reactions are genetically determined. This means that certain people have special proteins, receptors or other molecules ( more precisely - an excess of certain cells or molecules), responsible for the development of immune reactions. Like all substances in the body, these molecules are a product of the implementation of genetic information from chromosomes. Thus, a certain predisposition to allergies can indeed be inherited.

Numerous studies conducted around the world show in practice the importance of hereditary factors. Parents who are allergic to anything have a very high chance of having a child with similar immune system characteristics. However, it should be noted that the correspondence of allergens is not always observed. In other words, both parents and children will suffer from allergies, but one of the parents may have it, for example, to pollen, and the child may have it to milk proteins. Hereditary transmission of hypersensitivity to any one substance over several generations is quite rare. This is because in addition to genetic predisposition, other factors also play a significant role.

The following factors may predispose to the development of allergies:

• artificial ( not breastfeeding) feeding in childhood;
• early contact in childhood with strong allergens;
• frequent contact with strong chemical irritants ( strong detergents, industrial toxins, etc.);
• life in developed countries ( It has been statistically shown that natives of third world countries are much less likely to suffer from allergies and autoimmune diseases );
• the presence of endocrine diseases.

Under the influence of these external factors, allergies can appear even in people who do not have a hereditary predisposition. In people with congenital defects of the immune system, they will lead to more severe and frequent manifestations of the disease.

Despite the fact that the occurrence of allergies is influenced by hereditary factors, it is almost impossible to predict it in advance. Often parents with allergies give birth to children without this disease. Currently, there are no special genetic tests that can determine whether the disease is inherited. However, there are recommendations prescribing what to do in case of allergies in a child.

If a child shows signs of an allergy to something, and his parents also suffer from this disease, the situation should be approached with the utmost seriousness. The fact is that a child can be hypersensitive to a number of different substances. In addition, there is a risk of an extremely strong immune system response called anaphylactic shock, which is life-threatening. Therefore, at the first suspicion of an allergy, you should consult an allergist. He can perform specific tests on the most common allergens. This will allow you to promptly identify the child’s hypersensitivity to certain substances and avoid contact with them in the future.

To the question: Is there an allergy from cats, is it congenital or acquired??? given by the author Olesya Boldina the best answer is Physical blocking
An allergy is an increased or perverted sensitivity of the body to a substance. Allergies are classified as diseases associated with the immune system.
Emotional blockage
An allergic person usually feels disgust towards someone and cannot tolerate that person. He has great difficulty adapting to people or situations. Such a person is often strongly impressed by other people, especially by those whom he himself wants to impress. Many allergy sufferers are touchy. They often consider themselves the object of aggression and exceed the necessary degree of self-defense. Allergies are always associated with some internal contradiction. One half of an allergic person’s personality strives for something, while the other suppresses this desire. The same is true for his attitude towards people. So, for example, an allergy sufferer may rejoice in someone’s presence and at the same time want this person to leave: he loves this person, but at the same time does not want to show his dependence on him. Usually, after prolonged torment, he finds many shortcomings in his loved one. Very often, the cause of allergies lies in the fact that the parents of an allergic person had completely different views on life and constantly argued. Allergies can also be a good way to draw attention to yourself, especially if it manifests itself in difficulty breathing when the allergy sufferer cannot cope without the help of other people.
Mental block
If you suffer from allergies, it means that a certain situation is repeated in your life that attracts you and repels you at the same time, or there is a person towards whom you feel hostility, but at the same time seek approval from his side - usually this is someone from your loved ones. It seems to you that if you live up to this person's expectations, he will truly love you. Try to understand that this is nothing more than dependence on this person, on his approval or disapproval. You should no longer believe that submission is the only way to achieve love.
Interestingly, allergies are very often associated with precisely what a person loves most. So, you can really love dairy products and suffer from allergies to them. If you suffer from allergies to certain foods, this may indicate that you find it difficult to recognize your right to enjoy the joys of life.
Your life will become much easier and more enjoyable if you realize that you can achieve the attention of those you love without suffering. Perhaps as a child you were convinced that illness was a sure way to attract attention; but one should not think that this is the only way.
If you are allergic to dust or any animal, you may often feel like you are the target of aggression. Why do you suspect that others are aggressive towards you? I suggest you check these suspicions. As a rule, if a person is afraid of other people, the cause of fear should be sought in himself.
Instead of thinking that the allergy is caused by some external factors, try to remember and analyze everything that happened to you during the day that preceded the allergic reaction. Perhaps you have interacted with people whom you cannot stand or even hate. Since you cannot change others, you have no choice but to learn to look at the world through the eyes of your heart.
Spiritual blockage and imprisonment
To understand the spiritual blockage that is preventing you from meeting an important need of your true Self, ask yourself the questions given in the section REMOVING BLOCKS. The answers to these questions will allow you not only to more accurately determine the real cause of your physical problem, but also to eliminate it.
Source: MonadaDoctor

Answer from Kuka kuka[newbie]
maybe this and that

Answer from I-beam[guru]
Allergies occur from cat fur, but of course they are not congenital. Allergies can develop, for example, with weakened immunity.

Answer from Discard[guru]
acquired from my child

Answer from Crooked-handed[guru]
If there are allergy sufferers in the family, then the likelihood of acquiring an allergy is much higher.
and it can “pop out” from anyone.

Answer from User deleted[guru]
probretennaia budte ostorojni.u moego brata bila pohoja situaciia mi ne obratili vnimaniia da i kowku jal bilo vot u nego i pereroslo v asmu.s nastupaywim vas novim godom

Many people in our country suffer from a variety of allergic reactions. Very often they doom themselves to unnecessary suffering simply by not knowing how to effectively overcome the body’s allergic reactions. Next, we will consider effective methods of treating this insidious disease.

It should be understood that there are two main types of allergies: congenital and acquired. If the first type is genetically determined, that is, inherited from parents or close relatives, then the second type can occur secondarily, from time to time. The cause of an acquired allergic reaction is most often a disruption of the functioning of internal organs.

In congenital allergies, as a rule, the skin, bronchi and nasopharynx are affected. As a rule, this disease occurs in the form of hay fever, bronchial asthma, and atopic dermatitis. Acquired allergies are often associated with inflammatory bowel syndrome, caused by an excess of opportunistic microflora (streptococci, staphylococci, Klebsiella, etc.) in the intestines. Very rarely, allergies appear as a result of the absence of special enzymes involved in the digestive process, or the presence of birth defects.

First of all, you need to understand the fact that absolutely all traditional methods of treatment aimed at eliminating allergic reactions are treatment of consequences. Unfortunately, allergy symptoms can even be deadly.

Traditional methods of treatment act quickly enough and relieve a person of all symptoms, but we should not forget that in order to eliminate allergies, it is also necessary to take care of restoring the immune system. Only an integrated approach will solve the problem once and for all.

Allergy symptoms:

Prolonged runny nose;

Itching in the nose;

Attacks of sneezing;

Skin rashes;

Difficulty breathing;

lacrimation;

Redness of the eyes;

Itching of eyelids, etc.

When the first signs of an allergy appear, it is necessary to contact specialists who, through special tests, will determine what exactly caused such a reaction and select medications that will normalize the patient’s condition.

Traditional medicine offers two main methods used to treat allergies: pathogenetic and symptomatic.

The pathogenetic method is a specific immunotherapy. Such treatment, the meaning of which is to treat what made a person ill, must be carried out under the constant supervision of qualified specialists. Self-medication can end in failure, even death.

The symptomatic method involves taking antihistamines, the action of which is based on blocking the histamine receptor. As soon as it stops reacting to the allergen, the reaction immediately stops. Such crude and quick intervention can sometimes save a person’s life. Popular antihistamines: suprastin, diphenhydramine, ketotifen, kestin, claritin, zyrtec, etc.

Allergies in children are pathological condition, in which the immune system gives a pronounced reaction to a substance that enters the body and carries with it a potential danger. As a result, protective processes are launched, which manifest themselves in the form of a runny nose, cough or skin rashes. The results of numerous studies have shown that allergic disease has a hereditary factor, since most of the children examined in the family had one parent or both mom and dad had this problem.

Causes and symptoms of allergies in children

Modern medicine considers the following factors as the reasons for the formation of pathological manifestations in babies:

1. House and street dust.
2. Plant pollen.
3. Animal fur, saliva and urine.
4. Insect poison.
5. Food.
6. Sun rays.
7. Medicines.
8. Cold.
9. Chemicals, etc.

In babies, the pathological manifestation is quite often localized in the facial area:

1. Redness appears on the skin.
2. The epithelium becomes rough.
3. Rashes appear.
4. A runny nose begins.
5. Tearing increases.
6. A cough appears.

In most cases, such symptoms do not pose a threat to the lives of young patients, but parents need to respond in a timely manner to the occurrence of the first signs of an allergic disease.

This is due to the fact that complications may develop against the background of the body’s reaction to external or internal stimuli:

• inflammation of the larynx;
• swelling of the respiratory tract, etc.

The following factors can provoke the occurrence of an allergic disease in the facial area of ​​a baby:

After contact with an allergen, a pathological manifestation in babies develops within 10-30 minutes. Despite the external manifestations of an allergic disease in the facial area, the health of the babies may remain at the same level. Young mothers should show their children to specialists, who should first of all identify the cause that provoked this condition. Next, the toddlers are injected with a special antigen, which stops the symptoms that appear. The dosage of this medication increases gradually.

The task of mothers is to protect their babies from contact with provoking factors. Next they need to provide proper care behind their skin. For these purposes, you should use special products that will soften and nourish the epidermis in the facial area. Babies must take hygienic measures: they need to wash themselves several times a day, which will help alleviate the discomfort caused by inflamed skin.

Manifestation of dust allergies in children

Currently, cases of allergic disease to dust in little babies have become more frequent. Their mothers should not leave the symptoms that appear without control, since the pathological condition can cause the formation of various complications. Data from statistics maintained by many medical institutions from different countries world, show that the majority of young asthmatics developed the disease as a result of a reaction to dust.

Young mothers should not leave the following manifestations of dust allergic disease unchecked:

• cough appears;
• pain appears in the eyes;
• a runny nose begins;
• wheezing;
• the baby constantly sneezes;
• shortness of breath appears;
• Symptoms that are characteristic of an asthma attack may occur;
• signs of eczema, urticaria or conjunctivitis appear.

If young mothers take their children out of the home for a while, in which there is a provoking factor, then their well-being significantly improves and some symptoms may disappear. The baby must be shown to specialists so that they can diagnose and differentiate the pathological condition from other diseases that have identical symptoms. The toddlers will be prescribed a series of tests that will accurately determine the presence of an allergic disease. After this, specialists will prescribe drug therapy, including:

• a group of antihistamines;
• antiallergic medications;
• inhalers (if symptoms characteristic of asthma are observed);
• special therapy is possible, thanks to which the toddler will develop antibodies and his sensitivity to dust will decrease (such therapy does not always bring immediate benefits positive results, which is why it has to be repeated for several years).

The pathological manifestation in small crumbs does not arise from the dust itself, but from the waste products of the pathogenic microflora living in it. Microscopic dust mites cannot be seen without special tools, but they live everywhere:

• in floor and wall coverings;
• in furniture;
• in pads;
• in blankets;
• in toys, etc.

Mothers who notice the first signs of a pathological condition in their children should take the following measures:

How do food allergies manifest in children?

If babies develop an allergic disease, then the following will appear on their epidermis:

1. Bubbles filled with liquid.
2. Redness appears.
3. Rashes may appear.
4. Severe itching.
5. Quincke's edema.
6. Prickly heat.

By external signs such symptoms are identical to the manifestations of diathesis, so young mothers often do not attach due importance to it and begin to use it on their own various means. In order not to provoke the formation of serious complications, you should show the babies to pediatricians or allergists, who will give their recommendations.

To stop a pathological reaction, you first need to identify the dish that provoked it and exclude it from the menu. It should be borne in mind that either a single product or a dish that includes several ingredients can act as an allergen. The following should be considered as provoking factors:

1. Breast milk. For example, mom decided to break her diet and treat herself to something tasty. Everything she eats is then passed on to the baby with milk. As a result, a fragile body may react to a product that is new to it.
2. Artificial mixtures. Very often, young mothers encounter such problems when transferring their children to artificial nutrition. Toddlers can develop allergic pathology not only to infant formula, but also to whole cow's milk.

In small babies, an allergic disease can develop to the following foods:

If a negative reaction to food affects the gastrointestinal tract, then the babies may experience the following symptoms:

1. The gag reflex develops.
2. The processes of defecation are disrupted.
3. Severe colic appears.
4. Severe pain occurs in the abdominal area.
5. Other disorders may also occur: bronchospasms, runny nose.

Many young patients develop an allergic disease to breast and cow's milk. If their body has given a pathological reaction, then they may quickly develop the following symptoms:

1. The stomach is bloated.
2. Colic appears.
3. Inflammation begins on the skin.
4. The gag reflex is provoked.
5. Diarrhea begins (liquid stools often contain blood and green fragments).

Experts identify several stages in the formation of a pathological condition in babies:

1st stage	Manifestations of a pathological reaction on the skin, signs of diathesis
2nd stage	Childhood eczema develops. Bubbles with clear liquid appear on the skin of babies, and redness appears. After a short period of time, crusts form in place of the blisters, which are very itchy and cause discomfort in the babies
3rd stage	Dermatitis develops. The itching intensifies, sleep is disturbed, various parts of the epidermis are affected, especially in the folds. If the pathological manifestation has progressed to this stage, then dermatitis can occur in a chronic form until puberty.

Symptoms of an allergy to cold in a child

In small babies, a pathological reaction can quickly arise even to cold. If a child is outside for a long time in the cold, then the following symptoms will appear on his skin (usually around the mouth and eye sockets):

1. Swelling develops.
2. Redness appears.
3. Begins severe itching.
4. Urticaria develops.
5. Severely itchy blisters appear.
6. A runny nose and conjunctivitis begins with profuse lacrimation (these symptoms disappear when the baby goes into a warm place).
7. Peeling of the skin (a sign of cold dermatitis).

External manifestations of this pathological reaction should not be left uncontrolled by parents. This condition most often occurs in babies who have the following pathologies:

1. Vessels
2. Hearts.
3. Endocrine system.

Not only negative temperatures can provoke the formation of a pathological reaction. temperature regime, but also:

1. Cold winds.
2. Drafts.
3. Drinking chilled drinks and ice cream.
4. Dampness.

Mothers who notice a negative reaction in their babies to the cold should take the following measures:

1. Babies need to be dressed in such a way that they have as few open areas of the epidermis as possible that will be affected by the cold.
2. When walking, you should put a hood on your baby's head and cover his face with a scarf.
3. Outdoor clothing should be made from materials that repel moisture.
4. Before leaving the home, exposed areas of the child’s epidermis should be lubricated with a thin layer of a special product.
5. It is necessary to control the temperature of the food and drinks that the baby consumes.
6. At the first signs of a pathological reaction, you can give an antihistamine prescribed by a therapist or pediatric allergist.

Reaction to cats in a child

Young patients very often develop an allergic disease when in contact with domestic or stray animals. Most often, the pathological manifestation is observed during contact with cats. In this case, their fur, urine and saliva act as an allergen. Babies may experience the following symptoms:

1. A runny nose appears.
2. Respiratory functions are impaired.
3. Stuffy nose.
4. Sneezing begins.
5. Wheezing appears.
6. Red spots and itchy rashes appear on the skin.
7. Swelling and redness appear at the site of scratches, which often remain after playing with cats.

Unpleasant symptoms can quickly appear during contact with the animal, or after a few hours. Repeated contact with a cat can lead to an exacerbation of already manifested signs of a pathological reaction. Mothers should immediately show their children to specialists who will carry out a number of diagnostic measures, differentiate the emerging pathological condition from other diseases and prescribe a medicinal course of treatment:

1. Antihistamines.
2. Decongestant medications.
3. Antiallergic sprays.
4. Special allergic injections.

Parents need to prevent further contact between the babies and cats, so it is better to give them to your friends. Homes should be regularly cleaned, since the provoking factor can be brought from the street on shoes or clothes. It should be remembered that allergic disease is in most cases a hereditary pathology, so if moms and dads have this disease, then they should not have pets for their children.

How to recognize allergies in a newborn baby?

Newly born babies very often develop a pathological reaction to food or external stimuli. This is due to the fact that they have the highest intestinal permeability. As a result, substances that can provoke negative manifestations enter the bloodstream as quickly as possible. That is why young mothers try to protect their toddlers as much as possible from any provoking factors, and especially from certain foods.

Many experts are of the same opinion regarding the formation of allergic disease in newly born babies. They consider a hereditary factor to be the main cause, especially if there is a family history of this problem. The following can also provoke the formation of a negative reaction in a newly born baby:

1. Failure of the expectant mother to follow a hypoallergenic diet, which she must adhere to while breastfeeding.
2. Diseases suffered during gestation that have an infectious etiology.

In newly born babies, pathological reactions are accompanied by the following symptoms:

1. Redness appears.
2. Certain areas of the skin become inflamed.
3. Peeling and severe itching appears (not only on the body, but also in the face).
4. A runny nose begins.
5. A cough appears.
6. The mucous membranes may become inflamed.

If the baby begins to develop severe inflammatory processes, he will be subject to hospitalization for treatment in a hospital under the supervision of specialists. This is due to the fact that with such symptoms the risk of respiratory dysfunction and suffocation increases. Doctors first identify the factor that provoked the pathological reaction, after which they prescribe antihistamines that are safe for newborns. To normalize intestinal function, eubiotics and sorbents are prescribed.

Infants who are on artificial feeding are transferred to special diet. If they are breastfed, then their young mothers must adhere to a special diet. Experts recommend routine vaccination for toddlers, thanks to which an allergic constitution will be formed in their body, which can provide protection against various allergens.