What Causes Allergies and How Can You Manage Them?

Allergies are a common health issue affecting one in four people in the UK. Understanding what triggers allergies and how to manage them is essential for maintaining your well-being. At VR Private Clinics, we provide comprehensive allergy assessments and personalized care across our locations, including Private GP Guildford, Private GP Surrey, and Private GP Kingston upon Thames. We also offer Private GP same day appointments for your convenience.

Types of Allergies

There are six main types of allergies:

1. Food allergies: Includes reactions to milk protein, eggs, nuts, and shellfish.

2. Insect allergies: Reactions to bee and wasp stings.

3. Airborne allergies: Includes pollen, animal fur, dust, and mold.

4. Drug allergies: Reactions to medications such as penicillin, painkillers, and general anesthetics.

5. Latex allergies: Reactions to products like gloves and balloons.
   

Allergies can develop at any age, and individuals may have multiple allergies. Symptoms range from mild to severe and typically appear quickly, helping distinguish allergies from other conditions.

What Causes Allergies?

Allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies harmless substances, such as proteins in food or pollen, as threats. This process involves sensitization, where the body produces Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in response to the allergen. Upon subsequent exposure, these antibodies trigger an inflammatory reaction, releasing histamine and other chemicals, leading to symptoms such as:

• Itchy eyes, nose, mouth, or skin

• Sneezing

• Coughing

• Hives

• Swelling

• Vomiting

• Stomach pain
  

In severe cases, anaphylaxis can occur, which is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate medical attention. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• Feeling faint or dizzy due to low blood pressure

• Difficulty breathing or chest tightness

• Rapid pulse

• Swelling in the throat and hoarse voice
  

Testing for Allergies

To diagnose allergies, skin tests and blood tests are commonly used. Both tests detect specific IgE antibodies indicating sensitization to allergens.

• Skin prick tests: Small amounts of allergens are applied to the skin, and the reaction is observed after 15-20 minutes.

• Blood tests: Measures the level of specific IgE antibodies in the blood.

For suspected food allergies, an elimination diet might be recommended to identify trigger foods.

Can You Prevent Allergies?

While complete prevention is not possible, early exposure to allergens may reduce the risk. Research suggests that introducing foods like peanuts to young children can decrease the likelihood of developing allergies. For example, a study found that early exposure to peanuts reduced the risk of peanut allergies by over 70%.

Managing Allergies

Allergy management depends on the type and severity of the reaction. Common strategies include:

• Avoiding triggers: Avoiding allergens is crucial, though it may be challenging with airborne allergens like pollen.

• Medications: Antihistamines, eye drops, and nasal sprays can help alleviate symptoms.

• Emergency treatment: For severe allergies, carrying an adrenaline auto-injector (epi-pen) is essential.

• Immunotherapy: Gradual exposure to allergens under medical supervision can help desensitize the immune system.
  

Seeking Help

If you suspect you have allergies, it's important to consult with healthcare professionals. At VR Private Clinics, we offer comprehensive allergy assessments and personalized treatment plans at our clinics in Guildford, Surrey, and Kingston upon Thames. We also provide Private GP same day appointments to ensure you get the care you need promptly.

Further Reading

• NHS: Allergies

• AAAAI: Understanding Allergies

• Mayo Clinic: Allergy Symptoms and Causes

• Allergy UK: Information and Advice

• CDC: Allergies