Allergies

Are you or someone you know suffering from allergies in Louisville, KY or southern Indiana? Allergies can be tough to deal with, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. In this article, we will discuss the different types of allergies and how to manage them so that you can live a more comfortable life.

What are Allergies?

An allergy refers to your body's immune response or reaction to otherwise harmless substances (allergens). Having an overactive immune system is the cause of such reactions, which results from A type of antibody known as immunoglobulin E causes such an overactive immune system when it is activated from any allergic source, from pollen to pet dander or bee venom. Allergies cause many symptoms, ranging from coughing and sneezing to potentially deadly responses leading up to life-threatening situations (called anaphylaxis).

Common Types of Allergies

Millions around the globe are impacted by allergies, including allergic rhinitis (hay fever), eczema, hives, food-labeled allergens, and asthma. Common airborne allergens include tree/grass pollen, dust mites, and animal fur. Insect and bee stings can also cause mild to severe allergic reactions. Some of the most typical food allergens inside this category consist of peanuts, milk, eggs, wheat-grain, and fish/shellfish. 

Symptoms of Allergies

Allergies can cause a variety of symptoms, from mild annoyances to life-threatening reactions. Common allergy symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, coughing, itchy skin or rash, watery and itchy eyes, nasal congestion, and swelling of the lips, face, or eyes. Allergic reactions can also cause difficulty breathing, cramps, vomiting, and other symptoms. People may experience different symptoms depending on the allergen they are exposed to. It is important to be aware of your own particular allergy symptoms so that you can seek treatment when necessary.

Causes of Allergies

Allergies can be caused by a variety of factors, including airborne allergens such as pollen, animal dander, dust mites, and mold; certain foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish, eggs and milk; insect stings; and even medications such as penicillin or penicillin-based antibiotics. Allergies tend to run in families, so if you have allergies, it's very likely that at least one of your parents does too. Exposure to allergens can trigger the body’s immune system to overreact and cause allergic reactions. Adult-onset allergies can also occur due to changes in the immune system and exposure to new allergens in the environment. It's important to note that even a trace amount of an allergen can cause a reaction in someone with an allergy.

Testing for Allergies

Testing for allergies is an important part of identifying the cause of your symptoms and ensuring you receive the correct treatment. There are two main ways to test for allergies: skin prick tests and blood tests. Skin prick tests involve placing a small amount of the suspected allergen onto the skin and observing for a reaction. This test can usually confirm many common types of allergies. Blood tests measure IgE antibodies to certain allergens in the blood, known as RAST testing. Intradermal skin tests involve introducing a very small amount of the allergen into the skin, which is more reliable than blood tests. Talk to your doctor about which test is best for you and your symptoms.

Treating and Managing Allergy Symptoms

Managing allergy symptoms is essential for improving quality of life. Treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of the allergy, but generally fall into several key areas:

Avoiding Triggers: The most effective way to manage allergies is to identify and avoid allergens whenever possible.  This includes avoiding:

• Pollen (by staying indoors during high pollen days)
  
• Dust mites
  
• Pet dander
  
• Certain foods or insect stings (for food or insect allergies)

Over-the-Counter and Prescription Medications:

• Antihistamines: Help reduce sneezing, itching, runny/stuffy nose, and watery eyes.
• Corticosteroid nasal sprays: Reduce nasal inflammation and congestion.
• Cromolyn sodium nasal spray: Helps prevent allergic reactions if used regularly.
  

Allergy Immunotherapy:

• Allergy shots or allergy drops may be recommended for severe or persistent allergies.
• These can reduce sensitivity over time by gradually desensitizing the immune system to allergens.

Emergency Preparedness:

Individuals with severe or life-threatening allergies (e.g., food, insect stings) should:

• Always carry an epinephrine auto-injector.
• Be educated on how and when to use it.

Finally, natural remedies such as avoiding pollen-heavy areas, using air filters in the home, and using neti pots filled with saline solution can all help to reduce allergy symptoms.

Avoiding Triggers and Risk Factors

Avoiding triggers and risk factors is a key part of managing allergies. Knowing what your triggers are and how to avoid them can help you control your symptoms and reduce the severity of your allergic reactions.

Common Allergy Triggers

• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Animal dander
• Mold
• Smoke and strong odors
• Cold air
• Air pollutants
• Exercise (in some cases)

Tips for Avoiding Common Triggers

✅ Pollen

• Check local pollen forecasts
• Stay indoors when pollen counts are high
• Keep windows closed during peak pollen seasons

✅ Dust Mites

• Vacuum regularly using HEPA filters
• Wash bedding in hot water weekly
• Use dust mite-proof covers on mattresses and pillows

✅ Animal Dander

• Limit or avoid contact with pets
• Keep pets out of bedrooms and off furniture
• Bathe pets regularly (if tolerated)

✅ Mold and Odors

• Use dehumidifiers in damp areas
• Clean bathrooms and kitchens regularly to prevent mold growth
• Avoid strong perfumes, cleaning agents, or smoke-filled areas

✅ Cold Air and Pollution

• Cover your nose and mouth with a scarf during cold weather
• Avoid outdoor activities during high pollution alerts

✅ Exercise-Induced Allergies

• Exercise outdoors in the early morning when pollen counts are typically lower
• Warm up and cool down gradually to reduce the chance of a reaction.
  

Nutrition and Diet for People with Allergies

Allergies can have an impact on nutrition and diet and managing what you eat plays a key role in reducing symptoms and improving overall health.

Dietary Guidelines for Allergy Management

• Avoid trigger foods: Identify allergens and read labels carefully.
• Eat anti-inflammatory foods: 
• Fruits & vegetables: Support immune health.
• Magnesium-rich foods: Almonds, cashews, wheat bran, kelp.
• Omega-3 sources: Fatty fish, walnuts, flaxseed help reduce inflammation.
• Limit salt: Excess sodium can cause water retention, worsening symptoms.

It is also important for people with allergies to maintain a healthy weight, as excess weight can increase the risk of developing allergies or worsening existing ones.

Tips for Traveling with Food Allergy Sufferers

When it comes to traveling with food allergies, preparation and planning are key. The most important thing to remember is to always carry your Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plan with you. Put your epinephrine auto-injector and other medications in your purse or carry-on bag, which you will have with you at all times. Familiarize yourself with the foreign language word for your allergen and how to pronounce it. Research the location ahead of time and inform a member of the flight crew that you have a food allergy upon boarding. Additionally, pack more snacks than you think you’ll need in case there is a delay or difficulties finding an allergen-free meal. Apps such as AllergyEats can be very helpful in researching restaurants ahead of time. For the safety of others, make sure to take your epinephrine auto-injector and eat those potentially allergenic snacks off the plane. With the right preparation, people with food allergies can still enjoy traveling!

Natural Remedies for Alleviating Symptoms

When it comes to natural remedies for allergies, there are several options available. One of the most popular is nasal irrigation, which involves flushing out the nasal passages with a saline solution. This can help reduce congestion and clear out pollen, dust and other allergens. Air filters are also useful for reducing the presence of allergens in the air and can be used in both indoor and outdoor environments. Butterbur is a plant that has been used for centuries as a natural anti-inflammatory, and bromelain, an enzyme found in papaya and pineapple, has been found to reduce allergic reactions. Acupuncture is another option for those looking to manage their allergies naturally, as it can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms. Probiotics are also said to help reduce inflammation and improve overall immunity, while honey is thought to reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. Finally, air conditioners and dehumidifiers can help reduce humidity levels in the air, which can reduce the presence of allergens.

Over the Counter Medications for Relief

When it comes to relieving allergy symptoms, over-the-counter medications can be a great first line of defense. These medications are widely available and often more cost-effective than prescription medications. Common over-the-counter medications for allergies include antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec), fexofenadine (Allegra), levocetirizine (Xyzal), and loratadine (Alavert, Claritin). These medications work by blocking the action of histamines, which are released during an allergic reaction and cause the symptoms. 

Decongestants, which contain the ingredient pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) are also commonly used to combat allergies as they reduce swelling in the nasal passages and make it easier to breathe. Nasal steroids are generally the most effective treatment for nasal symptoms of seasonal allergies and are the first-line option for treating moderate to severe allergies.

It may be necessary to consult a doctor before taking any medication. When choosing an over-the-counter medication, read the instructions carefully and follow them closely. It is also important to note that over-the-counter medications can have side effects, so to talk to your doctor about any potential risks before taking them.

When to See an ENT or Allergist for Allergies

If you are experiencing allergies, it is important to know when to see an ENT (ear, nose and throat) doctor or allergist for diagnosis and treatment. If your allergies are causing symptoms such as chronic sinus infections, nasal congestion or difficulty breathing, visit an allergist as soon as possible. Allergists are experts in diagnosing and treating allergic reactions and can provide advice on how to manage your symptoms. They will often refer patients to ENT’s when surgery is needed, and ENT’s often refer patients to allergists when a formal allergy assessment is necessary. Cold symptoms that persist for more than two weeks may also warrant a visit to an ENT or allergist. Nasal allergies and inflammation are a chief cause for many sinus difficulties and their associated symptoms, so it is beneficial to make an appointment with an ENT or allergist if you are experiencing these issues. If you think you have allergies, think about seeing a doctor who can tell you whether you do or not. An allergist is an MD specializing in allergies, while an ENT specializes in diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the ears, nose and throat. Your doctor can help you decide which specialist is best for your particular condition.

Education and Resources on Living with an Allergy

Living with an allergy can be challenging, but there are many resources available to help. Free online training courses are available to prepare school staff and administrators to effectively manage students with food allergies and respond to emergency situations. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America provides free resources for parents, teachers, and staff, while the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology has educational videos related to food allergies. Kids With Food Allergies offers toolkits, videos, and more for school administrators and staff. Institutions of higher learning must generally accommodate students with life-threatening food allergies, a disability protected by law. Consulting with a healthcare provider is also important in order to create an allergy response plan for your child.

How to Talk to Others About Your Child's Allergic Condition

When it comes to talking to others about your child's allergic condition, it is important to start simple. Explain the allergy in age-appropriate terms and be sure to include the fact that certain foods can make them seriously ill. Involve the child in the process, and make it a part of your everyday conversation. Your child's school should also be informed of any allergies and if your child has asthma or a severe allergy, be sure to give a copy of their action plan. A fun, age-appropriate medical alert bracelet can be a helpful tool for them to remember their food allergies. Speak up if someone mistakes their severe food allergy for picky eating. It is important to remember that most allergies are relatively mild and not life-threatening. When caring for kids with nut allergies you should always be on guard for anaphylaxis and familiarize yourself with the risk factors and triggers. With some knowledge and preventative measures, you can ensure your child's safety.

Conclusion

In conclusion, allergies are a serious health problem. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of allergies and to talk to a doctor if there are any concerns. Allergy testing and treatment options are available, and there are ways to manage the condition and its symptoms. Those with allergies may want to consider avoiding triggers and risk factors, as well as following a healthy diet and lifestyle. There are also natural remedies and over the counter medications available for relief. Finally, it is important to seek out proper education and resources to help manage allergies and the associated lifestyle changes.

Medical Reviewers

Last Review Date: February 2023

Content Reviewers:

• Dr. Jeffrey Nau, MD
• Dr. Joseph J. Creely, MD
• Dr. Bryan Murphy, MD
• Dr. Thomas Higgins, MD, MSPH