Sneezing every morning, itchy eyes, a cough that won’t go away, skin rashes, or swelling after eating certain foods: all of these can be signs of allergy. Allergies are among the most common health problems today, affecting children and adults alike. In this video, Dr. Dipak Viradia, Chest Physician & Intensivist, explains what allergy is, its different types, and how it can be controlled.

What is an allergy? An allergy happens when the body’s immune system overreacts to a substance that is normally harmless, called an allergen. On contact with the allergen, the body releases chemicals such as histamine, which cause inflammation, itching, swelling and other symptoms. Allergy is not an infection and does not spread from person to person. It often runs in families.

Common allergens:

• House dust and dust mites
• Pollen from trees, grass and plants
• Mould and fungus
• Pet hair and dander
• Cockroaches
• Smoke, strong smells and air pollution
• Certain foods, such as peanuts, eggs, milk and seafood
• Certain medicines
• Insect stings

Types of Allergy

1. Nasal allergy (allergic rhinitis): sneezing, runny or blocked nose, and itching in the nose and throat.

2. Allergic asthma: cough, wheezing, chest tightness and breathlessness when the allergy affects the airways.

3. Eye allergy (allergic conjunctivitis): red, itchy, watery eyes, often along with nasal allergy.

4. Skin allergy:

• Hives (urticaria): raised, itchy red patches that appear and disappear
• Atopic eczema: dry, itchy, inflamed skin, often starting in childhood
• Contact dermatitis: rash where the skin touched something it reacts to, such as metal jewellery, cosmetics, detergents or chemicals

5. Food allergy: itching, rash, swelling of lips, vomiting or breathing difficulty after eating certain foods.

6. Drug allergy: rash, itching or swelling after taking certain medicines.

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): an emergency. Swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, dizziness or fainting after exposure to an allergen needs immediate hospital care.

Diagnosis. A detailed history, examination, and tests such as skin prick tests, allergy blood tests and a lung function test help identify triggers and check whether the lungs are involved.

Treatment. Allergy can be well controlled with:

• Identifying and avoiding triggers
• The right medicines, such as non-drowsy antihistamines, nasal sprays, eye drops and inhalers
• Allergen immunotherapy in selected patients, to reduce sensitivity over time

Avoid self-medication and quick-fix injections, and consult a doctor if allergy symptoms keep coming back.

Dr. Dipak Viradia
Chest Physician & Intensivist | Interventional Pulmonologist & ECMO Specialist
Rudrax Chest Clinic, 301, Solaris Royce, Opp. Old RTO, Athwagate, Ring Road, Surat – 395001
Appointment: +91 75676 19985
Website: www.drdipakviradia.com