Causes of allergies

IN most cases, vulnerability to allergies is passed down through the genes. As with most diseases like cancer, diabetes and heart problems, people are more at risk if their parents and those before them suffer from a particular health condition.

The biggest mistake is to think that nothing can be done about it. In fact, most diseases can be prevented.

One just has to be aware, do some research, consult a trusted physician, and make certain changes in lifestyle.

In the case of allergies, it is relatively easy to prevent, or at the very least, reduce. However, only an early diagnosis can produce the best outcome , that is, within the first year of a person’s life. Almost 60% of all allergies appear during the first year. And if the symptoms are ignored, then it is likely that about 50% of these children with food allergy will go on to develop other allergies like eczema, allergic rhinitis or asthma in later life.

In addition, it is speculated that food allergy may occur as a complication after the appearance of eczema.

Allergens

Allergens are substances that cause allergic reactions. It can be anything from dust mites to household detergents, cleaning fluids, perfume, certain metals, latex, drugs, pollen and insect stings.

Allergy to certain types of food has become increasingly common among young children. Cow’s milk, egg white, soya, fish, shellfish and peanut, are particularly distressing for children suffering from allergies.

The following are a few types of common allergies:

> Pollen allergy
> Pet allergy
> Latex allergy
> Mould allergy
> Food allergy
> Drug allergy
> Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
> Eye allergy (allergic conjunctivitis)
> Cosmetics allergy

Eye allergies are likely to be caused by house mites or pollen. Allergies to cosmetics are often delayed allergies which occur 72 hours after exposure, and tend to appear as allergic contact dermatitis.

A few common symptoms of allergies include the following:

coughing;
sneezing;
runny nose;
itchy eyes, nose, or throat;
diarrhoea;
skin rashes;
eczema;
vomiting;
breathing difficulties;
cramps;
swellings;
inflammation; and
dizziness.

At the end of the day, there are a multitude of factors that trigger allergies, but prevention is possible if it happens at an early stage in one’s life.

Identify infants at risk