What is an Allergy?
Allergies are hypersensitive responses from the immune system to substances that the body comes into contact with. In simpler terms, an allergy is an overreaction by the body to an otherwise normally harmless substance. The substance that triggers the allergic reaction is called an allergen. Allergens can be inhaled, ingested, or come into contact with the skin, causing a wide range of reactions depending on the individual and the allergen involved.
Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction
Allergic reactions can affect multiple parts of the body, including the skin, sinuses, airways, eyes, and nasal passages. The nature and severity of symptoms depend on the allergen and the route of exposure:
- Dust (inhaled) — itchy eyes, runny nose, and cough
- Food allergy — vomiting, swelling of the lips, and stomach cramps
- Insect stings — swelling at the sting site, wheezing, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis (a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate medical attention)
Common Allergens
The most common allergens include house dust mites, pollen grains, wool, animal hair, and food products such as nuts, corn, and shellfish. A research study conducted by KRIMS Hospitals on common allergens in Central India found that 50% of patients had allergy to dust mite, 20% had allergy to pollen, followed by insects, fungus, animal hair, and wool. This locally relevant data helps Dr. Arbat provide targeted allergy diagnosis for patients in the Nagpur region.
How is Allergy Diagnosed?
An allergy specialist will begin with a detailed consultation covering your symptoms, when they occur, how often, and your family history of allergies. Diagnostic tests include:
- Blood IgE levels — to detect elevated immune response to specific allergens
- Skin Prick Test — small amounts of suspected allergens are applied to the skin to observe reactions
- Patch Test — used to identify allergens causing contact dermatitis
Treatment
The most effective treatment for any allergy is avoidance of the allergen wherever possible. Medications such as antihistamines and local applications (nasal sprays, eye drops) can control symptoms. Immunotherapy (hyposensitisation) — a course of gradually increasing allergen doses — can desensitise the immune system over time and provide long-term relief.
Patients are strongly advised to avoid over-the-counter medications without professional guidance and to consult an allergy specialist for a proper diagnosis and personalised treatment plan. Self-medicating without knowing the specific allergen can be unsafe, particularly in cases of severe or anaphylactic reactions.