An allergic response is a process of overreaction of the immune system to an allergen, which is a foreign material. Your body creates antibodies to the allergen when you develop an allergy. The next time you're exposed to that allergen, these antibodies signal your immune system to release histamine and other chemicals into your bloodstream, causing your symptoms.

There are numerous types of allergies, including food allergies, insect sting allergies, drug allergies, latex allergies, and animal allergies. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms, such as hay fever, can usually be treated at home. Severe symptoms, such as a severe peanut allergy, can be life-threatening and require emergency medical treatment.

Different allergies can be treated in various ways. Some people use over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines to relieve their symptoms. Others may need to see an allergist for prescription medications or allergy shots.

What are Allergic Reactions and Why do they Happen?

Allergic Reaction

An allergic reaction is the immune system's response to a foreign substance, called an allergen, that it perceives as a threat. The immune system produces antibodies to neutralize the allergen. Every time a person comes in contact with the same allergen, these antibodies recognize it and help to protect the person from its effects. There are many different allergens, including pollens, dust mites, mold, animal dander, and certain foods; these are the most common allergies in adults and children. Approximately 4% of adults and 6% of children in the United States have food allergies.

Why Allergic Reactions Occur

Our immune system produces antibodies that neutralize allergens. When the person is exposed to the same allergen again, these antibodies recognize it and help protect the person from its effects. There are several theories about why some people develop allergies while others do not. It is thought that a combination of hereditary and environmental factors may play a role. Allergies can develop at any stage in life, and there is no way to prevent them.

Depending on their severity, there are different ways to manage allergies. Some people can avoid the things they are allergic to, while others may need to take medication or use special devices such as inhalers or epinephrine injectors. If you suspect you have an allergy, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

What are the Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction?

The primary symptom of an allergic response can vary from mild to severe, and include: 

• Itching 
• Swelling 
• Redness 
• Rashes 
• Hives 
• Difficulty Breathing 
• Anaphylaxis
• Abdominal Pain 
• Diarrhea 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 

In severe cases, anaphylaxis can occur. Anaphylaxis is a sudden and severe allergic reaction that can be fatal. If you think you have an anaphylactic reaction, you should call or go to the emergency room immediately.

How are Allergic Reactions Prevented?

An allergist can determine what a person is allergic to through a skin prick test or blood test. Allergic reactions can be prevented by avoiding the allergen, taking medications, or receiving immunotherapy.

Avoiding the allergen is the best way to prevent an allergic reaction. If you are allergic to pollen, stay indoors on days when the pollen count is high. If you are allergic to dust, clean your house regularly and use a vacuum with a HEPA filter. If you are allergic to pet dander, don't have pets in your home.

Some medications can prevent allergic reactions. Antihistamines can help relieve the symptoms of allergies. If you are allergic to bee stings, your doctor may prescribe an EpiPen, which is a device that injects a dose of epinephrine. Immunotherapy is another option for preventing allergic reactions.

With immunotherapy, you are exposed to small amounts of the allergen regularly. This helps your body build a tolerance to the allergen and reduces the severity of allergic reactions. If your condition is severe, doctors will order tests to help you find the reasons for the allergy. The list of the most common tests is as follows: skin tests, challenge (elimination-type) tests, and blood tests.

Challenge (Elimination-type) Tests

A challenge (elimination-type) test is done when the skin test is unclear or when the skin test results are not definitive. This test involves eliminating the substance from your diet for a period of time and then gradually reintroducing it. If you have a reaction upon reintroducing the substance, it is likely that you are allergic to it.

Skin Test

A skin test is the most common method for determining allergies. During this test, the skin is exposed to various allergens and reactions are monitored. If an individual is allergic to one of the substances, a small, itchy bump will appear on the skin. There are two types of skin tests: an intradermal test, where the allergen is injected into the skin with a needle, and a prick test, where the allergen is placed on the skin with a needle that does not puncture the skin. Both tests are typically performed simultaneously to compare results. To ensure the best results, it's recommended to consult with a specialist allergist.

Blood Tests

A blood test can measure the amount of IgE antibodies in the blood. IgE antibodies are produced as a response to an allergen. If an individual has a high level of IgE antibodies, they are likely allergic to that substance. This type of test is typically conducted when skin tests are not possible or when an individual has a severe allergy. It's always best to consult with an allergist to determine the most accurate results.

How is an Allergic Reaction Treated?

If you have a mild allergic reaction, you can treat it at home with over-the-counter medication. If you have a severe reaction, it's important to seek medical attention immediately.

For mild allergic reactions, you can use over-the-counter antihistamines to alleviate symptoms. However, if you experience a severe allergic reaction, you should go to the hospital immediately. At the hospital, you will receive a shot of epinephrine, a hormone that helps reduce the symptoms of an allergic reaction. Additionally, you will be given other medication to help alleviate symptoms.

In conclusion, if you are allergic to something, there are various ways to treat it. You can use over-the-counter medication for mild reactions or seek medical attention for severe reactions. It's always best to consult with an allergist to determine the best course of treatment for your specific allergy.