Allergies Health Article

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the specific type of allergic reaction. Allergic rhinitis is characterized by an itchy, runny nose often with a scratchy or irritated throat due to postnasal drip. Inflammation of the thin membrane covering the eye (allergic conjunctivitis) causes redness, irritation and increased tearing in the eyes. Asthma causes wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Symptoms of food allergies depend on the tissues most sensitive to the allergen and whether it is spread systemically by the circulatory system. Gastrointestinal symptoms may include swelling and tingling in the lips, tongue, palate or throat; nausea; cramping; diarrhea; and gas. Contact dermatitis is marked by reddened, itchy, weepy skin blisters.

Whole body or systemic reactions may occur from any type of allergen, but are more common following ingestion or injection of an allergen. Skin reactions include the raised, reddened, and itchy patches called hives. A deeper and more extensive skin reaction, involving more extensive fluid collection, is called angioedema. Anaphylaxis, another reaction, is marked by difficulty breathing, blood pressure drop, widespread tissue swelling, heart rhythm abnormalities, lightheadedness, and in some cases, loss of consciousness.

Diagnosis

Allergies can often be diagnosed by a careful medical history, matching the onset of symptoms to the exposure to possible allergens. Allergy tests can be used to identify potential allergens. These tests usually begin with prick tests or patch tests, which expose the skin to small amounts of allergen to observe the response. Reaction will occur on the skin even if the allergen is normally encountered in food or in the airways. RAST testing is a blood test that measures the level of reactive antibodies in the blood. Provocation tests, most commonly done with airborne allergens, present the allergen directly through the route normally involved. Food allergen provocation tests require abstinence from the suspect allergen for two weeks or more, followed by ingestion of a measured amount. Provocation tests are not used if anaphylaxis is a concern due to the patient's medical history.

Allergic rhinitis

The following can help to relieve the symptoms of airborne allergies:

• Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) has antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. The common dose is 300 mg four times daily.
• Grape (Vitis vinifera) seed extract has antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. The usual dose is 50 mg three times daily.
• Ephedra (Ephedra sinicia), also called ma huang, has anti-inflammatory activity and is proven effective in treating allergies. Taken as a tea thrice daily or 12.5–25 mg in capsule form. Ephedra should not be used for prolonged periods of time, as it can raise blood pressure, cause rapid heartbeat, and interfere with adrenal gland function.
• Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has cortisone-like activity which is anti-inflammatory, stimulates the adrenals, and relieves allergy symptoms. Can be taken as a tea or 100–300 mg in capsule form. Long term use can result in sodium retention or potassium loss.
• Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) has bronchodilator activity, is an anti-inflammatory, and prevents allergic reactions. It is taken in combination with other herbs.
• Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) seeds are used in Chinese medicine for wheezing and coughing.
• Echinacea (Echinacea species) may have antiinflammatory activity and boost the immune system.
• Khellin (Ammi visnaga) has bronchodilator activity.
• Cramp (Viburnum opulus) bark has bronchodilator activity.
• Traditional Chinese medicine treats allergic rhinitis with various species. Patent combination medicines are: Bu Zhong Yi Qi Wan (Tonify the Middle and Augment the Qi) and Yu Ping Feng San (Jade Windscreen) are used for preventing allergies, and Bi Yan Pian (Rhinitis Infusion) is often prescribed for syptoms affecting the nose.
• The homeopathic remedies Rhus toxicodendron, Apis mellifica, and Nux vomica have decongestant activities. They are taken internally.
• Vitamin C has antihistamine and decongestant activities.
• Vitamins A and E are antioxidants and help to promote normal functioning of the immune system.
• Coenzyme Q₁₀ may help to promote normal functioning of the immune system.
• Zinc may boost the immune system.
• N-acetylcysteine may have decongestant activity.
• Acupuncture has been shown to be as effective as antihistamine drugs in treating allergic rhinitis. It is also used to help prevent allergic reactions by strengthening the immune system.