Allergies

Allergy is a tendency of the body to react against itself when exposed to certain agents (called allergens).

1. Kinds of Allergens (to cause reactions)

   1. Ingested: Foods (e.g., wheat, cows milk, eggs, chocolate, orange juice, nuts)

   2. Inhaled: Air breathed (e.g., dust, pollens, mold, grass, cigarette smoke)

   3. Contact: Skin (e.g., poison ivy, certain metals such as clasps on undershirts)

2. Kinds of Treatment

   1. Specific: Avoid the offending agent. For example, if allergic to medicine (e.g., penicillin), food (e.g., milk), or animal (e.g., cats), avoid the responsible party.

   2. Suppression: Suppress symptoms by various antihistamines.

Classes of Antihistamines:

1. Over the Counter: Most are OTC, e.g., Claritin, Zyrtec, Dimetapp, Triaminic

2. Tavist D / Benadryl

3. Prescription Drugs:  Allegra

3. Mast Cell Blockage with Cromolyn - Prevent release of histamines and other chemicals from various cells. Is expensive but has no side effects.

4. Steriods as inhalers - Are very very effective yet have some side effects!

5. Desensitization: Shots 1-2 times a week for a long period, administered by an allergist.