Home

Posted by on Sep 20, 2011 in | Comments Off

Allergies

When the human immune system reacts abnormally, allergies occur. There are people with an immune system that reacts to certain harmless substances in their environment. Some of the substances that can trigger allergies are pollen, animal dander, mold etc. These substances that can trigger abnormal reactions from the immune system are called allergen. Not everyone has allergies. Allergies are inherent.

Allergic reactions

People get exposed to allergens by inhaling, swallowing or when it gets to their skin. After a certain person gets exposed to allergens, there will be a series of allergic reactions that will occur.

The body will then create a specific kind of antibody. This antibody is called IgE. This will bind the allergen together. These antibodies are attached to a mast cell, which can be found in the intestine, airways and other places in the body. These mast cells make the area of the body more vulnerable to allergic reactions. The allergens that were stuck on the IgE will then be attached to these mast cells. This will make the mast cell release different kinds of chemicals, especially the Histamine. The histamine is the main cause of the allergic symptoms.

Sometimes allergic reactions starts when you are a baby due to your allergy to chemicals used in a disposable nappies. Use organic cloth nappies instead.

Symptoms

Some of the main symptoms of allergies are:

  • Itchy and watery eyes
  • Itchy and runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Rashes
  • Feeling tired
  • Feeling ill
  • Rashes with raised red patch

For every kind of exposure, there is a corresponding allergic reaction. For food allergies, stomachache, vomiting and diarrhea are some of the most common symptoms. While for insect stings, local swelling, pain and redness in the bitten area are some of the most common symptoms.

Prevention and treatment

  • Make sure you use a saline solution nasal wash every morning. This will make your nasal passages free from possible allergens. This way, it will be easier for you to breathe and you do not have to sneeze all the time.
  • Make sure your bedroom windows are closed every morning until 10 am. This is the time when pollen is at its strongest and pollen is very common allergens.
  • Make sure you pillow cover and mattress can protect you from possible allergens. Dust mite can easily cause asthma or hives, and by protecting your pillow and mattress you will be able to avoid allergic reactions up to 90%.
  • Take the prescribed allergy pill. Do not take it only when you need to take it as directed by your doctor. This will help you avoid any allergic reactions.
  • Do not smoke and stay away from people who do. Smoking irritates the eyes, nose and of course the lungs. Smoking will no doubt trigger allergic reactions.
  • Avoid room fresheners and other kinds of sprays. These will trigger asthma, sneezing and other allergic reactions.
  • When you need to use harsh chemicals for cleaning your house or your office, make sure you are wearing a protective mask to avoid any allergic reactions.
  • Take the proper dose of vitamins to avoid any allergic reactions. Vitamin c and vitamin b are very helpful in protecting you from allergens.
  • Make sure you are tested. This way, you will know whether or not you have allergies and if you do what kind of allergies this is. With this, you will be able to avoid substances that can trigger your allergic reactions.

Allergy and Insurance

If you suffer from allergy most likely you will miss some time of work. This is where income protection insurance is handy. Income protection insurance Australia is paying up to 75% of your income in case you can’t work due to an illness. You should protect your family as well and buy life insurance which helps your family if you unexpectedly pass away. It doesn’t matter if it’s an allergy or other illness…