Allergic to Nuts?
Sana S Vishwanath | Jan 27, 2007
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Allergies affect particular parts of the body.
If you have skin rashes, itchiness, sneezing and a runny nose consult an allergy specialist.
Doctors diagnose allergies with an allergy test on the skin. Blood tests indicate allergy levels in the blood.
In case you are asthmatic, a lung function test will be done.
Treatment of Allergies
If left untreated, allergies could prove to be fatal. It is very important that you know what you are allergic to and recognise the symptoms.
Your doctor may give you a dose of penicillin unaware that you are allergic to it. This could lead to anaphylactic shock (constricting of the airways). In extreme cases an allergy could result in death, unless treated immediately.
Try avoiding substances that trigger an allergic reaction. This may be difficult if your allergen is air-borne. Always keep your allergy medications at hand for such times
Sprays and inhalers are recommended if you have asthma or a recurring cold.
Eye drops are used if you have allergic conjunctivitis. They are absolutely harmless and have no side effects.
Anti-allergic medications like antihistamines are also given to neutralise the chemicals released in the bloodstream.
In some cases anti-allergy vaccines are administered according to the results of the allergy tests.
You can do a steam inhalation for a cold or asthma. But before you set out to do anything, consult your doctor.
Try to keep pets away from your home. Also, avoid carpets… these are a breeding place for dust mites. Avoid foods with artificial colours and preservatives.
As soon as you get an allergic reaction, visit an allergy specialist. Take the medications as prescribed and on time.
(With inputs from Dr. Wiqar Shaikh, Hon. Allergy Specialist to Bombay Hospital; Dr. Jamuna Pai, Cosmetic Physician)
Allergies affect particular parts of the body.
- It can affect the lungs leading to asthma.
- Your eyes can be affected leading to allergic conjunctivitis.
- It can also be skin-related, which can cause hives and eczema (especially in infants). Allergic rhinitis can cause sneezing and itching.
If you have skin rashes, itchiness, sneezing and a runny nose consult an allergy specialist.
Doctors diagnose allergies with an allergy test on the skin. Blood tests indicate allergy levels in the blood.
In case you are asthmatic, a lung function test will be done.
Treatment of Allergies
If left untreated, allergies could prove to be fatal. It is very important that you know what you are allergic to and recognise the symptoms.
Your doctor may give you a dose of penicillin unaware that you are allergic to it. This could lead to anaphylactic shock (constricting of the airways). In extreme cases an allergy could result in death, unless treated immediately.
Try avoiding substances that trigger an allergic reaction. This may be difficult if your allergen is air-borne. Always keep your allergy medications at hand for such times
If you are pregnant, you need to take special care of controlling asthma. Otherwise it could cause a miscarriage, an abortion or a premature baby. Inhalers and allergy vaccines are safe to take during this period.
Sprays and inhalers are recommended if you have asthma or a recurring cold.
Eye drops are used if you have allergic conjunctivitis. They are absolutely harmless and have no side effects.
Anti-allergic medications like antihistamines are also given to neutralise the chemicals released in the bloodstream.
In some cases anti-allergy vaccines are administered according to the results of the allergy tests.
Breastfeeding builds a child's resistance to allergies.
You can do a steam inhalation for a cold or asthma. But before you set out to do anything, consult your doctor.
Try to keep pets away from your home. Also, avoid carpets… these are a breeding place for dust mites. Avoid foods with artificial colours and preservatives.
As soon as you get an allergic reaction, visit an allergy specialist. Take the medications as prescribed and on time.
(With inputs from Dr. Wiqar Shaikh, Hon. Allergy Specialist to Bombay Hospital; Dr. Jamuna Pai, Cosmetic Physician)
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