Prevention and Treatment of Allergies
H. Farhadian, M.D., F.A.A.P., F.A.A.A.A.I.
Copyright© 2009, Antelope Valley Allergy & Asthma Center. All rights reserved.
In order to prevent allergies successfully, it is important to understand how they develop. There are four stages in the progression of allergies. Within this article we will briefly touch upon each.
The first stage of development of an allergy begins with exposure of a person to an allergen or antigen (offending agents such as molecules of dust mites, pollen or cat hair and dander). By eliminating the offending agent from the environment, we can stop the reaction at this stage. For example, if a person is allergic to house dust or dust mite, eliminating or decreasing house dust significantly reduces the symptoms of allergy. If prevention is not possible; the person may become immunized against the offending allergen through allergy injections.
Of interest to expecting mothers is that we might be able to eliminate or decrease the chance of babies being born with milk allergy by placing mothers on a milk-free diet. In addition, babies can be given non-dairy milk without any problem to eliminate the potential of developing signs and symptoms of milk allergy.
In the second stage, the allergen or antigen enters the immune system and affects the plasma cells producing immunoglobulin E. Researchers and scientists now have been able to make an antibody against IgE, that is able to neutralize immunoglobulin E (igE). Therefore, stopping its effect on mast cells and preventing allergic symptoms or asthma as well. This drug is now in its final stage of experiments and development, and soon will be out in the market for use.
During the third stage of the event, the allergen becomes attached to the sensitized mast cell (a certain type of cell found in the tissues and body fluids) and releases histamines and other chemical mediators in the system bringing about allergy symptoms.
In cases of hay fever or allergic rhinitis, histamine causes engorgement of the blood vessels, therefore, swelling of nasal tissue and nasal congestion. Under the effect of histamine, there is also an increase of mucus secretion from mucus glands, and sneezing and itching due to the irritation of nerve endings.
The same mechanism affects patients with asthma, and in this case, leukotrien more than histamine causes constriction and spasm of the bronchial tubes in the lungs, inflammation of the mucosal lining and an increase in secretion of mucus from the mucus glands. The result includes wheezing, increased production of phlegm and coughing. In addition, histamine is responsible for allergic diseases, such as hives, eczema, food allergy, insect allergy, and in some cases, migraine headaches.
I hope this summary was helpful to explain the mechanism and causes of allergies and asthma. Therefore, you will be able to understand how allergy and asthma medications are able to reduce and treat symptoms.
If you have any questions, please call H. Farhadian, M.D., Director of Valencia Allergy Medical Group, can be reached at (661) 266-3322. Dr. Farhadian is a member of American Academy and College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, and American Academy of Pediatrics.
