Allergic reactions are an exaggerated response by the body's immune system to certain substances (allergens) that are harmless to most people.
This reactivity appears to be caused by a combination of genetic predisposition and exposure to the allergen (e.g. pollen, dust mites, animal dander, insect stings, plants, drugs, foods, occupational allergies due to prolonged contact with substances, physical agents, etc.).
An allergic reaction is an exaggerated response by the body to certain substances (allergens) that are harmless to the majority of people.
It seems to be triggered by a combination of genetic predisposition and exposure to these allergens (e.g. pollen, dust mites, animal dander, insect stings, plants, medicines, food, occupational allergies due to prolonged contact with substances, physical agents, etc.).
Most allergic reactions are mild, but some can be severe or even fatal, depending on whether the organism's reaction is localised or generalised.
The most common clinical manifestations are itching, skin reactions in the form of hives, wheals or redness (urticaria), red eyes and nasal congestion, possibly accompanied by coughing, difficulty swallowing, wheezing, palpitations, anxiety, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, dizziness, vertigo, swelling, loss of consciousness, flushing, facial redness, disorientation, etc.
The diagnosis is mainly based on the medical history and a complete physical examination, but your doctor may order some blood tests and skin tests for allergies.
As for treatment, the most important thing is to identify, remove and avoid the allergen that is causing the allergic reaction. Your doctor will decide which types of medication are indicated to minimise the symptoms caused by the allergen (anti-inflammatories, bronchodilators, leuktriene inhibitors and monoclonal antibody treatment).
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