In the first months of life, the immune system is formed based on what the body recognizes as "self" and "nonself." The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that some studies show that breast-fed babies are less likely to develop allergies; however, not all studies agree. When the body reacts inappropriately to substances that are not normally harmful, an allergic response takes place. Reactions range from mild to life-threatening, and, typically, include nasal congestion, coughing, wheezing, sneezing, itching, skin rashes, redness and edema (swelling). Allergies tend to run in families. The management of allergies consists of prevention and treatment of symptoms.
Hay Fever
Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is the most common type of seasonal allergy. Symptoms resemble those of the common cold, but they are not due to a viral infection and may last for months. Allergic nasal discharge is consistently thin and clear, and it may be accompanied by itchy eyes, mouth and skin. Common causes are pollen, grasses, dust mites, animal dander and mold, and they may be different for each individual.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation, if a parent has allergies, one out of three children will probably have them, too. If both parents are allergic, the statistical probability rises to seven out of 10. For people with asthma, hypersensitivity may increase mucus secretions and cause inflammation and swelling in the lungs that can interfere with normal breathing.
Food Allergies
The eight most common food allergens are cow's milk, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, egg, soy, fish and shellfish. These account for 90 percent of food allergies among young children, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. Reactions may begin immediately or be delayed. Extreme allergic reactions can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening medical emergency characterized by difficulty breathing and signs of shock.
Marianne Barber, co-author of "The Parent's Guide to Food Allergies," says that many children have adverse reactions to food additives, such as tartrazine (yellow dye #5) and other colorings, and to preservatives, such as monosodium glutamate (MSG), butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), sulfites and sodium benzoate.
Insect Bites and Medications
The venom of bees and other insects can provoke allergic reactions in sensitive people and may become increasingly severe over time. It may be necessary to carry antihistamine medication and injectable epinephrine in a beesting kit.
The National Institutes of Health notes that an allergy to penicillin or other antibiotics can also develop with repeated exposure and become life-threatening. An allergy to aspirin is not uncommon, especially among asthma sufferers. Sulfa drugs, anticonvulsants, animal sources of insulin and iodine dyes may also trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. These and other severe allergies should be noted in medical records and worn on a medical alert bracelet.
References
- Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Allergy Facts and Figures
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Food Allergy
- "The Parent's Guide to Food Allergies"; Marianne Barber, Maryanne Scott, M.D., Elinor Greenberg, Ph.D.; 2001
- MedlinePlus: Drug Allergies
