An allergy or hypersensitivity reaction is an exaggerated immune response that develops after exposure to a particular antigen (foreign substance to our body) that occurs in susceptible individuals (genetically) and previously sensitized.
Causes
Main agents causing allergy or hypersensitivity:
Mites and cockroaches
Mold (fungi)
Epithelium (skin) and the animal (cats and dogs)
Fungal spores and pollen from flowers
Food
Medicines
Types
Feed:
Cow milk
Eggs
Peanut
Soybean
Fish and seafood
Nuts
Skin
It manifests with lesions and severe itching. In some cases, can be very serious, affecting the whole body.
Nose:
The allergic inflammation of the nasal mucosa, known as allergic rhinitis, can occur repeatedly. Its main causes are inhalant allergens such as dust mites and domestic.
Airway:
Asthma is a disease accompanied by allergic inflammation of the airways. It is also known as allergic bronchitis or asthmatic bronchitis. It is mainly caused by:
Allergens and irritants
Airway infections
Exercise inappropriate
Gastroesophageal reflux
Medications and foods
Emotional causes, such as anxiety
Ocular:
Allergic conjunctivitis is the most common allergy causing irritation, redness, itching and watering of the eyes.
Symptoms
Main symptoms of asthma:
Feeling of "tightness" or heaviness in the chest ("chest stuck")
Shortness of breath or fatigue
Wheezing
Cough, which may be accompanied by elimination of secretion (white goo)
Main symptoms of allergic rhinitis:
Repeated sneezing
Runny liquid and abundant
Nasal itching insistent (or itch also the eyes, ears, palate and throat)
Nasal mucosa congested and clogged nostrils
Eyes red, irritated, itchy and watery
Sense of dripping secretion by back of the nose, which can cause persistent cough and hoarseness
Amendment of smell and taste
Chronic cough night
Sinusitis
Tonsillitis
Pharyngitis
Repeated ear infections
Treatment
It is important to see a medical specialist, who will investigate the causes of allergy and recommend remedies best suited to control the disease.
Possible Complications
Anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock. It is a severe allergic reaction that causes impairment of the entire body; Difficulty in breathing, loss of consciousness; Till death if not treated immediately.
Living and Prognosis
Tips for a healthy home:
Ventilation: keep windows open during the day. Do not be afraid: wind does not hurt
Furniture: The furniture should be simple, with smooth edges and easy cleaning
The cleaning: it should be made daily, with water, soap and cleaning products suitable. Avoid products with odor active as those derived from ammonia. Preventing also use mops and mop and vacuum filters have not to retain very small particles
Mattresses and pillows: replace pillows once a year and prefer models with foam-piece. Avoid feather or flakes. Encasing mattresses and pillows with special covers against mites and change the bedding weekly.