Allergies: Key Q&A

Reviewed By:
Marc J. Sicklick, M.D., FAAAAI, FACAAI

What is the most common type of allergy?
Allergies to airborne molds and pollen are considered the most common types of allergies. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) estimates that about 40 million people in the United States have seasonal hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Pollen is responsible for triggering most cases of hay fever and is released seasonally by trees, grass and weeds. Different plants release pollens during different seasons, and it is possible to be allergic to more than one type of pollen.

Which is the most effective type of treatment for my allergy?
The best type of treatment for any type of allergy is avoidance. Only by completely avoiding an allergen can you hope to escape allergy symptoms entirely. This step is often difficult and requires you to be diligent in order to limit allergen contact. Although complete avoidance may not always be possible, you should always work toward limiting your exposure to allergens. Over-the-counter and prescription medications can be very effective in providing relief from allergy symptoms. Work with your doctor to find a treatment that's right for you.

What, exactly, is an allergic reaction? Is it the same in adults and children?
An allergic reaction is the immune system's attempt to defend the body from a threat that, in reality, is harmless. This response is the same for both adults and children. The immune system responds to the perceived threat of the antigen by producing a protective antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE). When these antibodies bind to the allergen, certain cells release histamines and other chemicals, which trigger an allergic reaction.

Are children more likely to have certain types of allergies?
Children are more likely to have food allergies than adults. About 3 to 8 percent of children have a food allergy, compared with roughly 2 percent of adults, according to the AAAAI. High-protein foods, especially cow's milk, are particularly likely to trigger symptoms in children. Many children outgrow their allergies as they age, but some allergies remain into adulthood.

Are short-haired pets less allergenic than long-haired pets?
Hair (or fur) actually has little to do with the amount of allergens that most animals generate. Animal allergens usually come from saliva, urine or dander (small dead skin cells continually shed by animals). Dander is the most common animal allergen. All furred and feathered animals have dander, including cats, dogs, hamsters, guinea pigs, ferrets and birds. Dander is very light and can become airborne easily. There is no such thing as a "hypoallergenic" animal. Contrary to popular belief, even hairless cats and dogs carry allergens."

Are there any treatments that can make me immune to allergies?
Allergy shots are a type of immunotherapy that work by regularly exposing you to very small amounts of an allergen through a series of injections. By increasing your exposure to the allergen over a period of months or years, you may be able to build up a tolerance. The success of this type of treatment varies by individual and by the type of allergy being treated.

Are food allergy reactions dangerous?
The AAAAI estimates that roughly 100 people die each year from food-related anaphylactic shock. People with food allergies can have this deadly reaction after eating only a trace amount of an allergen. Some sensitive people can have a reaction merely by inhaling the cooking fumes of a food they are allergic to. For this reason, highly allergic people may be advised to carry an emergency epinephrine shot with them at all times to stop an anaphylactic reaction.

Is there any way to diagnose a food allergy?
An oral food challenge, also known as a double-blind food challenge, is considered the most effective way of diagnosing a food allergy. During this test, different foods are placed within capsules to hide their identity. Neither the patient nor her doctor knows which capsule contains the suspected allergen. The person swallows the capsules, and the doctor looks for signs of an allergic reaction.

How can I keep my house free of dust mites?
Although there is no way to completely free your house of dust mites, there are many ways to limit the amount of dust and dust mites that accumulate in your home. For instance, washing your bed sheets once a week or more in hot water will kill most dust mites.

You may also benefit from using synthetic bedding materials (dust mites prefer wool and cotton) and allergen-impermeable covers on mattresses, pillows and box springs. These completely encase the mattresses and pillows and prevent mites and their waste particles from getting into the air.

As for the rest of the house, consider leather furniture instead of upholstered furniture and limit your use of carpet and rugs.

Are allergy medicines safe to take while I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Pregnant women should always consult their doctor before using any type of allergy medication. While some allergy drugs are considered safe, others may pose a risk to the fetus. If you are trying to have a baby, you should talk to your doctor about medications before becoming pregnant.

Breastfeeding mothers should also contact their doctor before taking allergy medicine. The effects of many allergy drugs on a nursing baby are unknown.

 

For more information on allergies, see the Allergies & Asthma message boards.