Allergy occurs when a person’s immune system reacts to substances in the environment that are harmless for most people. These substances are known as allergens and are found in dust mites, pets, pollen, insects, ticks, moulds, foods and some medicines.11
“A substance that is an allergen for one person may not be for another.”
However, the risk of developing
allergies
is higher if other family members suffer from
allergy or asthma.11
Coming in contact with these allergens may trigger an allergic reaction, which begins as a result of the release of a certain substances (ex. Histamine), leading to the development of swelling and inflammation.11
There are several allergy types and symptoms, depending on the
allergen and the part of your body that is exposed to
it.11
When you breathe in allergens, an allergic reaction may occur, which may result in the release of a substance called histamine. This then causes the lining of your nose to produce lots of mucus and become swollen and inflamed. The result is a runny, itchy nose, and a violent sneezing. You may also get watery eyes and a sore throat.11
Asthma can sometimes be triggered during an allergic reaction. When you breathe in an allergen, the lining of the passages in your lungs may swell and make breathing difficult.11
Most stomach upsets are caused by richness or spiciness in the food itself, rather than an actual allergy. However, certain foods are commonly associated with allergy. These include peanuts, seafood, dairy products and eggs. Cow’s milk allergy is common in infants and can cause stomach upset. Lactose intolerance may also cause stomach upsets, but it must not be confused with allergy.11
Skin problems such as eczema (dry, red, itchy skin) and urticaria (also known as hives) often occur. Hives are white itchy bumps which look and feel like insect bites. Food may be a factor in some cases of hives and eczema. 11
COMMONLY KNOWN AS HAY FEVER. ALLERGIC RHINITIS IS CAUSED BY
THE EXPOSURE OF THE NOSE OR EYES TO ALLERGENS5..
Some of the most common indoor and outdoor allergens in the GCC
countries18,19,25..
Allergic rhinitis may have significant effects on daily activities and quality of life. 2
It may be seasonal, occurring in spring, summer and early fall, or may come as perennial allergic rhinitis, with which symptoms may be experienced throughout the year. 20
The life-time occurrence of urticaria in the general population ranges from 1% to 5%.31
Urticaria can be triggered by many substances or situations and usually starts as an itchy patch of skin that turns into swollen red wheals9
The itching may be mild to severe, scratching, alcoholic beverages, exercise, emotional stress may worsen the itching. 9
There are two types of hives, Short Lived (Acute) and Long-Term (Chronic)9
Symptoms can last
anywhere from minutes to months, or even years!
While they may be mistaken for bug bites, hives (also known as
urticaria)
are different in several ways:
COLDS
|
ALLERGY
|
|
|---|---|---|
SYMPTOMS3 |
Similar symptoms to allergy. It may also come with sore throat, fever and body aches. |
Runny or stuffy nose; sneezing; wheezing; watery or itchy eyes. |
WHEN DOES IT START?3 |
Develops over several days. |
Begins shortly after exposure to an allergen. |
HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?3 |
Should clear up within several days. |
Lasts as long as exposure. |
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