Allergy F.A.Q

Frequently asked questions Allergy

Frequently asked questions Allergy (Allergy FAQ)

Q1. What are allergies?

A. An allergic reaction occurs when our immune system reacts with the substances which are considered harmless to most of us. For example, if someone has allergic symptoms after eating peanut then he is suffering from a peanut allergy.

Q2. What are allergens?

A. Allergens are the substances, which cause an allergic reaction.

Major allergen include

Dust mite
Pet dander
Pollen
Cockroach
Mold
Foods

Q3. What are the types of allergy?

A. Based on symptoms the allergy can be

Mild to moderate:

These are non-life threatening reactions. Symptoms can be controlled by taking over the counter or prescribed antihistamines or steroids.

Severe allergy/Anaphylaxis:

It is the most severe form of allergy. Urgent treatment is necessary.

Q4. What are the most common allergic diseases?

A. The most common allergic diseases are:

Hay fever/Allergic rhinitis
Allergic asthma
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Food Allergy
Urticaria /hives
Latex Allergy
Insect Sting Allergy
Drug Allergy
Atopic Dermatitis /eczema
Contact Dermatitis
Anaphylaxis

Q5. How can I tell the difference between a cold and an allergy?

A. Cold or common cold is usually caused by viruses. Allergies caused by allergens which are considered harmless to most of us. Common cold and allergies share a few common symptoms. Cold symptoms usually include fever, sneezing runny nose and fatigue. Allergies usually have symptoms like itching, wheeze, skin rash and hives etc.

Q6. What are symptoms of allergy?

A. Symptoms of mild to moderate allergy include:

Runny Nose, Stuffy Nose, Sneezing
Wheezing, Shortness of Breath
Cough
Rashes
Headache
Nausea & Vomiting
Fatigue
Fever

Q7. What are the symptoms of anaphylaxis?

A. Symptoms of the severe allergy include:

Generalized urticaria and angioedema
Itching, tightness in the throat, hoarseness of voice
Vomiting, diarrhea, cramping in the abdomen
Respiratory difficulty/shortness of breath, cough, wheeze
Weak pulse, dizziness, reduced BP

Q8. The best treatment of allergy?

A. Mild to moderate allergy: over the counter or prescribed antihistamines or steroids.

Severe allergy/Anaphylaxis: Injection adrenaline is necessary.

Q9. Can allergy be prevented?

A. If you have an allergy to a particular substance then avoidance of the substances are the best preventive measure to avoid allergy. But in spite of the best effort, an individual may come in contact with the allergen.