Allergies are a common and often chronic condition that occurs when the immune system reacts excessively to substances that are generally harmless. These substances, known as allergens, can be encountered in various forms, such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander, certain foods, and insect stings. When an allergic person comes into contact with these triggers, the immune system releases chemicals like histamines, leading to allergy symptoms.

The precise cause of allergies is complex and involves both genetic and environmental factors. Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to allergies, and exposure to certain allergens can trigger their development. Common allergens include:

Pollen: Trees, grasses, and weeds release microscopic pollen particles during their reproductive cycles, contributing to seasonal allergies that manifest as sneezing, itching, and congestion. These airborne allergens can travel considerable distances, exacerbating allergic responses in sensitive individuals.

Dust Mites: Microscopic arachnids known as dust mites thrive in household dust, bedding, and upholstery, and their faecal matter and cast-off skins can become airborne, triggering allergic reactions when inhaled. These common indoor allergens pose a year-round challenge for individuals prone to respiratory sensitivities.

Pet Dander : Allergic reactions can be triggered by proteins present in the skin, saliva, and urine of pets such as cats and dogs. Even microscopic particles of pet dander can become airborne, making it pervasive in indoor environments and a constant challenge for individuals with pet allergies.

Certain Foods: Common food allergens like nuts, shellfish, dairy, and wheat can elicit immune responses in susceptible individuals, leading to symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe reactions like anaphylaxis. Cross-contamination, mislabeling, and hidden allergens in processed foods can contribute to the challenge of managing food allergies.

Insect Stings: Bee or wasp stings contain venom that can induce allergic reactions, ranging from localised swelling and pain to severe anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals. The venom triggers an immune response that can affect multiple systems in the body, necessitating prompt medical attention for those prone to insect sting allergies.

Anaphylaxis: Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially fatal allergic reaction that triggers a rapid and systemic release of chemicals. This can result in a sudden onset of symptoms, such as difficulty breathing due to airway constriction, a significant drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness, demanding immediate medical intervention to prevent a life-threatening outcome.

Asthma Exacerbation: Allergic reactions often exacerbate asthma symptoms, causing increased bronchoconstriction and inflammation in the airways. This heightened immune response can lead to heightened difficulty in breathing, wheezing, and chest tightness, emphasising the importance of managing allergies to control asthma effectively.

Chronic Sinusitis: Prolonged exposure to allergens can contribute to persistent inflammation in the sinuses, leading to chronic sinusitis. This condition involves prolonged nasal congestion, facial pain, and difficulty breathing through the nose, underscoring the need for allergy management to alleviate symptoms and prevent the recurrence of sinus issues.

Eczema Flare-ups: Allergies can trigger exacerbations of eczema, a skin condition characterised by inflammation, redness, and intense itching. Managing allergies becomes crucial in preventing flare-ups, as allergic reactions can exacerbate the skin inflammation and compromise the skin barrier, leading to more frequent and severe bouts of eczema.