How it arises, treatment and risks

Allergies are far from affecting only children, who usually manifest themselves at an early age. Allergic reaction it can occur at any time during life, and you may not recognize the first symptoms for a long time. It manifests itself, for example, in the form of a chronic runny nose, stuffy nose, sneezing and coughing, irritated eyes that may itch, cut or swell. If similar problems have been bothering you for a long time or if they return regularly, it is quite possible that you too are classified as an allergy sufferer.

“Although allergies more often develop in childhood, they can appear for the first time at any age, even if you have never experienced any symptoms before. Changes in the environment, stress or exposure to new allergens can trigger allergic problems in adults. Allergies can also appear in connection with hormonal changes, for example during pregnancy menopause,” says Michal Závacky, allergy expert and editor-in-chief of the ProAlergiky.cz portal.

Allergy they usually arise on a genetic basis, but heredity is far from the only condition. The external environment contributes significantly to the development of allergic symptoms. “There is an allergy civilization disease, its formation is supported by external pollution by smog and exhaust gases, internal pollution by the use of aerosols and paints, a high incidence of bacteria, active and passive smoking or insufficient ventilation. Allergens to which the patient is sensitive can also change or expand during life, for example as a result of frequent exposure to a certain allergen,” explains doctor Radka Šedivá from allergy clinic Synlab.

A symptom of an allergy can also be hives or eczema, conjunctivitisburning or itching in the mouth, swelling of the mucous membranes or digestive problems and diarrhea. Eczema is the most common allergy symptom in infants and toddlers, and it is common in adolescents hay fever. It can also be in all age categories asthma.

In the event that you have an allergy for the first time and its symptoms are only mild, it should be used after consultation with a general practitioner antihistamines and write down difficulties and the circumstances of their occurrence. If the difficulties persist or recur, it is advisable to make an appointment with an allergist.

“Allergies must always be thoroughly diagnosed so that adequate treatment can be professionally set up. Suspicion of a particular allergy is confirmed by skin and then blood tests, and then targeted treatment is started. The so-called specific allergen immunotherapy indicated only by an allergist, its timely deployment is essential. This will prevent the development of further complications and the further spread of the allergy. In case of severe allergic reactions, it is necessary to always have emergency medicine with you,” says doctor Radka Šedivá.

An allergic reaction can be very acute, often for example after an insect sting or ingestion of any food or medicine. If swelling occurs in the head and neck area, or even anaphylactic shock, it can be a life-threatening condition and the victim should call an ambulance immediately.

“Allergies with a risk of anaphylaxis should carry an adrenaline pen with them, but this cannot be expected of a new patient. However, if someone present at the situation has a pen or anti-allergy medication, they should provide it to the victim. When the patient’s life is not in danger, an examination by an allergist is appropriate in order to rule out other, non-allergic causes of the reaction and to confirm the causative allergens through testing,” stresses Michal Závacky.

How do you know if you have an allergy?