Read more about how to manage and prevent allergies.
What Are Allergies?
Allergies are the symptoms that arise when the immune system responds to what it detects to be a foreign substance in the body. The substances that cause allergies can range from bee venom to pet dander, and even foods. The substances that cause an allergy response are called allergens.
Allergic antibodies (IgE) are formed when a person has an initial exposure to an allergen. IgE then binds to mast cells and basophils, and when that allergen is encountered again, it binds to the IgE and causes the release of allergic chemicals such as histamine.
Everyone reacts to allergens differently. Some people will not even realize that an allergen has entered their body, while others will have mild to severe reactions.
Causes
There are many potential causes of allergies. Examples of common allergens include:
Pollen Pet dander Insect venom Fungal spores Dust mites Medications Certain foods
When the body detects a substance that it thinks is an invader, it releases histamines as it works to make antibodies. Histamines are organic compounds that are made by the immune system that help the body get rid of an allergen. It’s the release of histamines that leads to allergy symptoms.
Symptoms
The symptoms of allergies range from mild to severe and can include:
A runny or stuffy nose Itchy and watery eyes Throat itching (a “scratchy” feeling) Swelling Wheezing or shortness of breath A dry cough Ear itchiness, discomfort, or pain Rashes, including dermatitis and hives Fatigue (if allergies go untreated) Headache Nausea and vomiting (food allergies)
Severe Allergic Reactions
A severe allergic reaction is referred to as anaphylaxis and is considered a life-threatening medical emergency. The signs and symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction can include:
Severe itching of the face or eyesThroat swellingAbdominal pain and crampsVomitingDiarrheaHivesSwellingMental confusion or dizziness (caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure that can occur during a severe allergic reaction)
How to Get Allergy Relief at Home
Even though they can be annoying or downright uncomfortable, most allergy symptoms are not serious. Here are a few ways that you can get relief from your allergies at home:
Use air filters: Air filters purify the air and remove pollutants or substances that can aggravate allergy symptoms. Turn on a dehumidifier: By removing moisture from the air, you can turn your home into an environment where certain allergens such as mold would find it difficult to survive. Shut windows and doors: Keep your home’s doors and windows closed to lessen the number of pollutants in the air. Monitor pollen levels: Regularly check the pollen counts where you live to help you plan ahead for high-pollen days. Remove houseplants: Depending on the type of plants you have in your home, they might promote mold growth. You may want to avoid having houseplants or remove any that you think could be triggering your allergy symptoms or making them worse. Try a sinus rinse: Sinus rinses are saline solutions used to rinse your nasal passages. Some studies have suggested that sinus rinses are effective at treating and managing allergy symptoms, especially if they are mostly affecting your nose. Vacuum often: Vacuuming frequently will help reduce the amount of allergy-causing dust, dander, and debris in your home.
When to Seek Professional Treatment
If your allergy symptoms interfere with your ability to sleep or go about your daily life at home and at work, it’s time to see your doctor. A healthcare provider can help you find the best way to manage and treat your allergies.
Allergy Medications
There are a few medications that can combat symptoms of allergies. Some of them are available over the counter, while others will require a prescription from your doctor.
Antihistamines: Antihistamines work by blocking the effects of histamines in your body. Decongestants: Decongestants help relieve congestion. However, research has shown that many people who self-medicate with nasal decongestants overuse them. If you want to try a decongestant, talk to your doctor first. Nasal sprays: Nasal sprays are fast acting and do not have the same side effects as oral medications. Both decongestants and antihistamines come in nasal sprays, as do steroids.
Allergy Testing
If you have allergy symptoms but do not know what is causing them, you may want to consider allergy testing to find out. Allergy tests can identify the substances that you are having a reaction to.
The test that is used will depend on the allergy that is being investigated. Allergies can be diagnosed with blood tests, a skin test, or an elimination diet (for food allergies).
Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy)
Allergy shots are a form of immunotherapy in which a small amount of a specific allergen is injected into the body. This causes the immune system to respond and build up a certain level of immunity toward the allergen.
Rarely, a person may have a severe allergic reaction during the test, which is why all allergy tests should be performed in a medical office.
Allergy shots are effective for many people, but some studies show that the treatment needs to be done for at least three years for the body to build up enough immunity to the allergen.
What to Do in an Emergency
If you start having symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, call 911. If you are able, tell the operator that you are having an allergic reaction and need medical assistance.
If you know that you have allergies and could potentially have a severe reaction, make sure that you always carry an EpiPen with you. If you start having symptoms, you can use your EpiPen while you wait for emergency medical help to arrive.
Summary
Allergy symptoms can be caused by many triggers in your home and environment. The severity of your symptoms will determine whether you can manage them at home or if you need to discuss other options, like medication, with your doctor.
If you are not sure what is triggering your allergy symptoms, there are tests that your doctor can perform to find out. Once you know what you are allergic to, it’s important that you take steps to avoid your allergy triggers. It’s also crucial to know the signs of a severe allergic reaction.
A Word From Verywell
Allergies can be triggered by many things in your home and environment—from dust and pollen to food and pets. Most symptoms of allergies, while annoying and disruptive at times, are not serious and can be managed at home.
However, if you have severe allergies you may need to talk to your doctor about your treatment options. You should also discuss what steps to take if you have a severe allergic reaction.
