Allergy – everything you need to know about symptoms, medication and treatment

What are allergies?

Allergies occur when the body’s immune system overreacts to certain substances in the environment, known as allergens. This overreaction occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies these normally harmless substances as harmful, triggering a defense response. This response then leads to the release of chemicals such as histamine, which are responsible for triggering a range of symptoms that can affect the skin, respiratory tract, sinuses, eyes and digestive system.

Allergens can be very diverse and include pollen, dust mites and animal dander. People can inherit the tendency to develop allergies, and this tendency can often be seen through familial patterns of allergic reactions. (Source: Sundhed.dk)

Common allergies

The most common allergens include:

Pollen from plants: Often called hay fever or allergic rhinitis, this type of allergy is triggered by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds.

Pollen counts, which measure the concentration of pollen in the air at a given time, can be a useful indicator for those sensitive to these seasonal allergens so they can take steps to reduce their exposure on days with high pollen counts.

Animal hair or dander: Allergic reactions to proteins found in an animal’s skin flakes, urine, or saliva.
Dust mites: Small creatures that live in household dust.
Mold: Can grow in damp places in the home.
Foods: Such as gluten, nuts, milk, eggs and shellfish.
Insect stings: Reactions to bites or stings from certain insects.

(Source: Sundhedsstyrelsen)

Symptoms of allergy

Symptoms of allergies can range from mild to severe and include:

• Nasal congestion, sneezing and runny nose
• Itchy, red, or watery eyes
• Rash or eczema
• Asthma symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing
• Digestive problems

In the most severe cases, allergies can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

(Source: Astma-allergi)

What can I do myself to treat allergies?

Although allergies can be challenging to live with, there are several strategies you can implement yourself that can potentially help manage and relieve symptoms:

1. Identify and avoid allergens

The first step in managing allergies is to identify and, as much as possible, avoid the specific allergens that trigger your symptoms. This may mean keeping windows closed during pollen season, using hypoallergenic bedding to minimize exposure to dust mites, or avoiding certain foods.

2. Medication

Over-the-counter allergy medications can be very effective in relieving symptoms. Allergy pills, such as antihistamines, can help control sneezing, itching, and runny nose, while nasal steroid sprays can reduce inflammation in the nose.

For eye-related allergy symptoms, such as itching and redness, allergy eye drops containing antihistamines or other anti-inflammatory agents can also provide significant relief.

3. Allergy vaccination

For some people, allergy shots (also known as immunotherapy) may be an option. This treatment involves regularly administering gradually increasing amounts of the allergen, which over time can reduce the body’s response to it.

4. A healthy indoor climate

Reducing the amount of allergens in your home can also help. This may involve frequent vacuuming with a HEPA filter, using air purifiers, and regularly cleaning surfaces and fabrics.

(Source: Apoteket)

Osteopathy and allergies

Osteopathy offers a unique approach to treating allergies by focusing on improving the body’s overall function and health. Here are some specific ways osteopathy can help:

Improving lymphatic drainage and blood circulation: Osteopathic treatments can help improve the function of the lymphatic system and blood circulation, which means that the accumulation of toxins and allergens in the body can be minimized. (Source: National Institutes of Health).

Strengthening the immune system: Through various techniques, osteopaths can work to boost the effectiveness of the immune system, potentially reducing the frequency and severity of allergic reactions (Source: Integrated Medicine Institute).

Reduces stress and improves breathing: Osteopathy can also be effective in managing stress and improving respiratory function – two key factors in managing allergy symptoms, especially the respiratory symptoms such as asthma that are often associated with allergies. (Source: Integrated Medicine Institute).

Allergies can be debilitating and disabling, but through a combination of traditional medicine and holistic treatments like osteopathy, many people can experience significant relief.