Femina 30 Aug 2017
Just a cold?
While you can’t allergy-proof your life, a knowledge of the most common allergic reactions seen in India will let you get help and weather the onslaught better.
Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, is a type of nose inflammation that occurs when the immune system reacts adversely to something in the air. Itchy nose, irritated throat and skin, and watery eyes are the preliminary symptoms.
Bronchial asthma is the most common form of asthma. It causes periodic attacks of coughing, wheezing, breathlessness, chest congestion and can cause long-term harm to your lungs. Consult a doctor as soon as you identify the symptoms.
Fragrance or smell sensitivity refers to the allergy to odours and strong smells from cosmetic products. Besides nose inflammation, it may also cause acute headache, fatigue, weakness and memory loss. Avoid the use of too many perfumes, deodorants or room freshners as they increase indoor pollution.
Food allergies occur when our immune system overreacts to a type of food. For example, in many cases the immune system makes a type of antibody called IgE in reaction to protein in certain forms, like peanuts and other nuts, eggs and fish.
Dust allergies are mostly caused due to indoor air pollution and may trigger asthma symptoms such as wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath in children. It can also be set off by pollen, mold, feather-like substances and dust mites, which thrive in warm, humid places, like under the bed.
Pollen allergies present itself differently in each person. Parthenium dermatitis, an immuno-inflammatory disease caused by Parthenium hysterophorus, which are airborne and friable plant particles. Dr Shalini Joshi, a senior internal medicine consultant at Fortis Hospital, advises you to, “Cover your mouth when crossing parks and steer clear of flower shops and green houses. Most pollen allergies flare up during certain times of the year. Avoid going out too much during those weeks and pre-medicate with anti-allergenics.”
Drug allergies are adverse reactions to certain medications, and these need to be monitored carefully. They may manifest as a rash or as breathing difficulty, or even swollen glands.
Sinusitis refers to an inflammation of the sinuses (air-filled cavities in the skull) caused by bacterial, viral or fungal infection. It is a major health threat for children. Swelling of nasal tissues, postnasal drip, nasal stiffness and unusual discharge, frontal headaches, tooth pain and bad breath are some of the early symptoms.
Textile contact allergies or cloth dermatitis can be defined as a skin manifestation caused by synthetic fabrics when they come into direct or indirect contact with the skin. The source of the problem may be the fabric itself or chemical additives such as textile dyes.
Pet allergies are triggered by the dander (dead skin), urine or saliva of animals. Dr Joshi says, “Make sure you spend time with animals in shelters or in someone else’s home before you adopt. Also avoid getting a pet if you live in a small apartment as animals need a lot of space, and constant inhalation of these animal particles can produce new allergies.”