ALLERGY (Classical / Allopathic Medicine)

General description: allergy is an exaggerated reaction of the immune system to a harmless substance, called an allergen. Allergens can be found in the air, in food, in water or in contact with the skin.

When an allergic person is exposed to an allergen, their immune system produces antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies attach to mast cells, which are cells found in tissues throughout the body.

When the allergen binds to the IgE antibodies on the mast cells, the mast cells release a number of chemicals, including histamine. Histamine is what causes allergy symptoms.

Symptoms of an allergy can range from mild to severe and may include:

- Sneezing
- Rhinorrhea (runny nose)
- Red and irritated eyes
- Urticaria (itching and rash)
- Angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, neck or hands)
- Asthma (wheezing, difficulty breathing and coughing)
- Anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening)

If you have allergy symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to find out what allergen you are allergic to and receive an appropriate treatment plan.

There are several types of allergies, including:

- Food allergies
- Contact allergies
- Allergies to medicines
- Allergies to insects
- Allergies to pollen
- Mold allergies
- Allergies to dust
- Allergies to pets

Allergy treatment varies depending on the type of allergy and the severity of the symptoms. Treatment may include allergen avoidance, use of anti-allergy medications, or allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT).

AIT is a long-term treatment that involves the administration of increased doses of allergen to desensitize the body to the allergen. AIT may be effective in reducing the severity of allergy symptoms and preventing anaphylaxis.