Allergies

There are several types of allergies, including - 

• Allergic Rhinitis - Also known as hay fever, allergic rhinitis is an allergy to airborne particles such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion.
• Food Allergies - Food allergies occur when the immune system reacts to certain foods, such as peanuts, shellfish, or eggs. Symptoms may include itching, swelling of the lips or tongue, hives, and difficulty breathing.
• Drug Allergies - Drug allergies can occur when the immune system overreacts to certain medications. Symptoms may include itching, rash, hives, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
• Insect Sting Allergies - Some people may develop an allergy to insect stings, such as bees, wasps, or hornets. Symptoms may include swelling, itching, and difficulty breathing.

Depending on the type and severity of allergies, the symptoms vary from one individual to another. Common symptoms of allergies may include the following - 

• Itchiness or watery eyes
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Skin rash
• Hives
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
• Breathing difficulties
• Anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction that can cause a rapid drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness, and even death)

There are numerous causes of allergies depending on the origin and type of allergy. Sometimes, certain medications can also cause allergic reactions which may need medical assistance. Furthermore, the exact cause of why some people develop allergies and others do not is not fully understood, but genetics and environmental factors may play a role. Common triggers of allergies include - 

• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Pet dander
• Certain foods
• Insect stings
• Medications

Seek medical assistance if the symptoms of allergies do not improve with OTC medications and home remedies. Prolonging the treatment can lead to the possibility of several complications. Usually, patients who are prone to severe allergies carry epinephrine injections which can help in relieving major symptoms before the patient receives proper treatment.

Diagnosing allergies may involve a combination of a physical exam, medical history, and allergy testing. Allergy testing can help identify the specific substance that triggers an allergic reaction. Diagnosis for allergies includes tests such as -

• Skin Prick Test - A small amount of the allergen is placed on the skin, and the skin is pricked to allow the allergen to enter the skin. If a person is allergic, the skin will become red and swollen.
• Blood Test - A blood test can measure the levels of antibodies in the blood that are associated with an allergic reaction.
• Elimination Diet - In some cases, a doctor may recommend an elimination diet to help identify food allergies. This involves eliminating certain foods from the diet and then slowly reintroducing them to see if a reaction occurs.

The most effective way to manage allergies is to avoid the allergen that triggers the reaction. This may involve making lifestyle changes, such as avoiding certain foods, using air filters, or keeping pets out of the bedroom. Medications may also be used to relieve allergy symptoms, including:

• Antihistamines - These medications block the effects of histamine, a substance that is released during an allergic reaction.
• Decongestants - These medications help reduce nasal congestion and swelling.
• Steroids - In severe cases, steroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and swelling.
• Emergency Epinephrine - In case of severe allergies, patients may need to carry emergency epinephrine shots to reduce symptoms until the treatment is given.

The Calcutta Medical Research Institute (CMRI) is one of the largest multispecialty hospitals in Kolkata. Our hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, revolutionising the healthcare industry for the best surgical outcomes. 

In addition, CMRI has several eminent specialists, doctors and healthcare providers of national and international reputations for comprehensive and personalised treatment. CMRI provides patient-centric care and empathy from internationally trained nurses to ensure holistic care for patients seeking treatment for allergies. Here are a few advantages of choosing CMRI - 

• Highly qualified and experienced doctors
• 440-bed capacity along with cutting-edge technology and the latest medical equipment
• Hygienic and patient-friendly infrastructure
• Thorough screening and diagnosis
• Transparent Pricing Structure for cost-effective treatment
• Patient-centric, high-quality care for a high success rate
• Pain management and palliative care
• Complete and coordinated care for patients with all types of cancers.