Allergy: Symptoms and Effective Treatment

Allergy is a condition that occurs when the immune system overreacts to specific substances in the environment known as allergens. These substances include pollen, dust, mold, pet dander, and other small particles that can enter the respiratory system.

When a person with allergies is exposed to these substances, their immune system triggers an excessive reaction, leading to symptoms that can range from mild to severe.

Allergy Symptoms

As mentioned earlier, respiratory allergies occur when the immune system reacts to certain substances in the air, causing an allergic reaction. The body's response varies depending on the type of allergen a person is exposed to, so allergy symptoms can differ from one individual to another.

Respiratory allergy symptoms may vary based on the specific trigger, and they may include:

Seasonal Allergy Symptoms

Sometimes, symptoms are seasonal, occurring only during certain times of the year, such as autumn or spring (seasonal respiratory allergies). However, some individuals may experience symptoms year-round.

Symptoms often start in the upper respiratory tract as mild, then worsen over time. Early symptoms include:

  • Runny nose
  • Frequent sneezing
  • Itchy or blocked nose
  • Sore throat

Other non-respiratory symptoms, such as itchy eyes and excessive tearing, are also common with respiratory allergies. Skin problems may also accompany these symptoms.

Lower Respiratory Allergy Symptoms (Allergic Asthma)

In some cases, inhaling allergens may lead to breathing difficulties, a condition known as allergic asthma. This occurs when the airways swell due to the body's reaction to allergens. Allergic asthma is the most common type of asthma, and most people with asthma also have at least one respiratory allergy.

Symptoms of allergic asthma include:

  • Persistent cough
  • Difficulty and tightness in breathing
  • Chest tightness
  • Wheezing, especially during exhalation
  • Excessive mucus production in the airways

Causes of Allergy

The exact causes of allergic asthma remain unclear, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors can increase the likelihood of developing allergies.

An allergic reaction in asthma occurs when an individual is exposed to allergens and irritants (triggers) that vary from person to person. The most common triggers include:

  • Airborne irritants like pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander
  • Air pollutants and cigarette smoke
  • Strong odors such as perfumes or cleaning products
  • Sinus infections, colds, and flu
  • Physical activity or exercise

Allergy Treatment

Avoiding allergens is one of the primary ways to manage allergies, but it's often not possible to completely avoid them. Medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, play a significant role in controlling the condition.

Al Abdali Hospital is known for providing the highest standards of medical care, relying on the latest methods for diagnosing and treating allergies to ensure a healthy and safe life for patients.

The doctors in the Respiratory Diseases Department at Al Abdali Hospital work together to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient.

Available Treatments:

Lifestyle Changes

Doctors at Al Abdali Hospital provide essential advice and guidance to help patients avoid allergens. By educating patients about potential allergens and effective ways to minimize exposure to environmental triggers, the doctors help patients adopt preventive measures that improve their health and quality of life. These include:

  • Using saline solution to wash nasal passages to relieve irritation.
  • Avoiding exposure to smoke, perfumes, and cold air that may irritate the respiratory system.
  • Showering and changing clothes after being in areas that may contain allergens.
  • Regularly washing bedding with hot water to remove microbes.
  • Replacing carpet with hard flooring to reduce dust accumulation.
  • Wiping down surfaces with a damp cloth regularly to avoid spreading dust.
  • Keeping windows closed during pollen season to reduce exposure.
  • Keeping pets out of the bedroom to reduce allergen exposure.
  • Maintaining cleanliness in damp areas of the home, such as the kitchen and bathroom, to prevent mold growth.

Medications

There are many medication options, which are selected based on each case after the doctor evaluates the patient. Some examples include:

  • Antihistamines: These drugs are effective and safe for daily use, but they may take a few days to a week to begin working.
  • Nasal Sprays: Very effective in relieving symptoms and can be used daily.
  • Decongestants: For relieving nasal and sinus congestion.
  • Bronchodilators: These medications relax the muscles around the airways, helping improve airflow through the bronchi.
  • Inhaled Corticosteroids: Used as a long-term treatment by reducing inflammation in the airways and decreasing mucus production.
  • Leukotriene Modifiers: These drugs block substances that cause inflammation, known as leukotrienes, and are taken as a single daily pill.
  • Biologic Treatments: These are used for severe asthma cases when symptoms persist despite the use of inhaled medications.

If medications alone are not sufficient to control symptoms, the doctor may recommend immunotherapy (such as injections or sublingual therapy). This treatment involves gradual exposure to small amounts of allergens, which helps the body build tolerance over time.

  1. Valeii, K. (2024, April 7). Difficulty breathing and allergies. Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/respiratory-allergies-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5206183#toc-respiratory-allergy-symptoms
  2. Allergies. (2024, May 1). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8610-allergies#symptoms-and-causes