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Allergy is caused by hypersensitivity of the immune system leading to a misdirected immune response. The immune system normally protects the body against harmful substances such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins. Allergy occurs when the immune system reacts to substances (allergens) that are generally harmless and in most people do not cause an immune response.
The first exposure to the allergen causes a mild immune response that sensitizes the immune system to the substance (triggers the immune system to recognize the substance). The second and subsequent exposure to the allergen results in symptoms. The type of symptom that develops depends on the specific allergen, the part of the body where exposure occurs, and the way the immune system reacts to the allergen.
When an allergen enters the body of a person with a sensitized immune system, it triggers antibody production. Histamine and other chemicals are released by body tissues as part of the immune response. This causes itching, swelling of affected tissues, mucus production, muscle spasms, hives and rashes, and other symptoms. Symptoms vary in severity from person to person.
The part of the body contacted by the allergen will, in part, also affect symptoms. For example, allergens that are inhaled often cause nasal congestion, itchy nose/throat, mucus production, coughing, wheezing, or similar symptoms. Food allergies often include abdominal pain, cramping, or similar symptoms, although the whole body may be affected when the food is absorbed. Allergies to plants often cause skin rash. Drug allergies usually involve the whole body.
Many disorders are associated with, triggered, or worsened by allergies. These include hay fever, eczema, asthma, and many others.
There are many ways to test for allergies. The traditional method is to inject dilute quantities of allergens in the skin and look for a response. Although this is a time proven method, there is significant time involved, patient discomfort and a small but serious risk of anaphylaxis, that is an overwhelming allergic response to even the small amount of allergen injected that can lead to shock, severe asthma, or cardiovascular collapse.
We utilize the RAST which is a laboratory test performed on blood that we draw into test tubes. It tests for the amount of specific IgE antibodies in the blood (which are present if there is a "true" allergic reaction). Because the allergen is mixed only with the blood in the test tube, there is no risk of anaphylaxis like there is with skin testing. The blood draw takes only a few minutes and results are generally available within 2 weeks.
Allergy tests are used to determine the specific substances that cause an allergic reaction in an individual. They may also be used to determine if a group of symptoms is a true allergic reaction (involving antibodies and histamine release). Some food intolerances, in which there is an inability to digest a food because of lack of appropriate enzymes, mimic allergies. Some drugs, such as aspirin, can cause allergy-like symptoms but without the formation of antibodies or the release of histamine.
There are three different types of allergy treatments: environmental elimination, suppression with medication and allergy shots.
Environmental elimination is the best method of treatment. This may involve decreasing the level of allergens in your home or work environment, if possible. Sometimes certain types of food are to be avoided. However, sometimes this can be difficult if you are allergic to allergens that are widespread such as grass or trees. Saline washes of the nose can help remove inhaled allergens.
Suppression with medication is probably the most commonly used method for treating allergies. This involves the use of antihistamines (we generally use presciption anti-histamines that are non-sedating so they do not interfere with your daily work or play), topical nasal steriod sprays or occasionally, systemic steroid pills. Newer medication that prevents the allergic response are coming available and promise to improve our scope of allergy medications.
An allergy shot treatment program is 1-2 year commitment on the part of the patient to take shots about once a week in an effort to eliminate the bodies overreaction to allergens. Allergy shots help relieve allergy symptoms by helping your body fight the allergen. When you get shots of the allergen, your body starts making antibodies to the allergen. These antibodies help block the effects of the allergen the next time you have contact with it. Because the antibodies block the way your body reacts to the allergen, your allergy symptoms become less severe. After many allergy shots, you might start to get relief from your allergy symptoms. This relief will last for a long time. It usually takes 6 months or more of shots before you start feeling better and notice relief of your allergy symptoms
Allergy are a complex problem which unfortunately affects a large number of people. You are welcome to make an appointment with Dr. Sinha at 404/257-1589 to discuss you symptoms to determine if allergy testing and treatment are appropriate for you.