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I believe we have all seen one or two individuals who start sneezing constantly during seasonal transitions. At gatherings, a friend may mention their allergies to seafood, almonds, and so on. Allergies are common symptoms in daily life, with food sensitivities and nasal allergies being the most prevalent. Sometimes, contact with cleaning agents, hand sanitizers, and even hand rubs commonly used during recent epidemics can lead to eczema on the hands. But how do allergies manifest? Are allergies incurable for life? This article briefly introduces allergies.
What is an Allergy?
Apart from being a disease, allergies are also a form of the body's protective mechanism. It refers to when the immune system overreacts when the body comes into contact with generally harmless substances in the environment. When an allergen (a substance that triggers allergies) enters the body, the immune system mistakenly identifies it as harmful and releases an excessive amount of immune factors, leading to allergic symptoms such as allergic rhinitis, skin swelling, difficulty breathing, etc. The severity of allergic reactions varies from person to person, with some experiencing only mild discomfort while others might face severe allergic reactions, even life-threatening ones.
Allergies can be categorized as acute and chronic allergic reactions. Acute allergic reactions entail the risk of anaphylactic shock, a severe systemic allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. On the other hand, chronic allergic reactions include symptoms like eczema, nasal allergies, asthma, eye sensitivity, and hives. These symptoms are typically milder but can persist for a longer duration.
Causes of Allergies?
The main reason for the body's immune system overreacting to harmless substances is abnormal immune system responses, with the most significant influences being genetic factors and immune system development factors.
Genetic Factors:Genetic factors play a crucial role in the occurrence of allergies. If a person's family has a history of allergies, they may be more susceptible to allergic reactions than others. Genetic variations can increase or decrease an individual's response to specific allergens. Some genetic variations may increase the risk of allergies, while others may provide protection.
Immune System Response:The immune system mistakenly identifies these substances as invaders, releasing an excessive amount of immune factors that lead to allergic symptoms. The reason for this situation is the immune system's misjudgment. Some people's immune systems do not develop maturely and stably enough to effectively recognize and respond to potential allergens, thereby increasing the likelihood of allergic reactions. Some studies suggest that excessive cleanliness and lack of exposure to microbes may lead to immature immune system development, increasing the risk of allergies.
How to Identify Your Reactions?
You can visit specialized centers for allergy and immune response testing.
Preventive Measures
There are methods for avoidingall allergenssystematically once the principles are understood. It is not difficult to avoid them once identified. The most direct method is to undergo testing to identify what you are allergic to in advance. Although it is not possible to completely avoid contact with allergens (or foods) in daily life, it is better to spend around a thousand dollars on testing than to regret it later when something goes wrong.
Types of Testing
Blood Testing
In this type of testing, less than 5 milliliters of blood is used to compare the body's reaction to over a hundred environmental factors.
Skin Patch Testing
This test is conducted on the skin, where a patch is applied to the skin for at least 48 hours. The patch is then removed, and results are typically available 4 to 5 days later, revealing which allergen triggers a reaction in the form of skin eczema. This method is safe and reliable.
Changes in Allergies
However, it is important to note that allergy conditions can change and may resolve on their own.
1. Maturation and Regulation of the Immune System
Enhanced Immune Tolerance: As one ages, the immune system gradually learns to differentiate between real threats (such as pathogens) and harmless substances (like allergens), reducing excessive reactions.
2. Continued Exposure to Allergens
Natural Desensitization:Prolonged, low-dose exposure to allergens (such as pollen, dust mites) may allow the body to adapt gradually, develop immune tolerance, similar to the principles of "desensitization therapy."
3. Changes in Physiological Structure
Development of Respiratory or Digestive Systems:For example, infants have weaker intestinal barrier function, making them more sensitive to food allergens, which may decrease as the intestines mature in adulthood.
Enlargement of Sinuses or Airways:Allergic rhinitis or asthma may improve due to changes in respiratory tract structure.
4. Hormonal Influences
Changes in Hormones during Adolescence may regulate immune responses, and certain allergic symptoms (like atopic dermatitis) may improve in adulthood.
5. Lifestyle and Environmental Adjustments
Avoiding allergens, dietary adjustments, or medication control (such as antihistamines) may also help alleviate symptoms.
In fact, nearly 20% of children outgrow allergies by the time they reach school age. However, the following categories are mostly considered permanent:
Pollen
Sesame, peanuts, tree nuts
Fish and shellfish
It is generally reasonableto have a gap of two years between regular allergy tests.Proper checks can help in early prevention.
