Allergies can result when a person responds to environmental elements that are typically safe for most people. Allergens are compounds present in dust mites, animals, pollen, insects, ticks, mould, food, and some medicines. To understand allergies better, we talked to Dr Harish N, Senior Consultant Neonatology and Paediatrics, Apollo Cradle and Children's Hospital, Koramangala, Bangalore. Dr Harish explains some important myths and facts related to allergies in people.
Do Allergies Happen Only To Kids?
This statement is false, as allergies are not restricted to a particular age bracket. Dr Harish said, "No, allergies happen to adults and kids as well."
You Can Outgrow Allergies
No, you can't outgrow allergies. You can only prevent certain allergic substances that can trigger the allergies. For this, you will need to make a few changes to your surroundings or figure out how to stay away from things that trigger allergy attacks, but you can't really outgrow them, stated Dr Harish.
Also Read: 7 Food Items That May Cause Allergy In Children
The Only Remedy For Allergies Is To Avoid Triggers
Dr Harish stated that there is currently no cure for allergies. However, there are over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications that may relieve symptoms. The definitive treatment is to avoid triggers, but there are many other medical treatments (like antihistamines and steroids), which will help in relieving the symptoms, but yes, prevention is the first line of treatment.
You Cannot Differentiate Between Colds and Allergies
According to Dr Harish, allergies can cause a lot of upper respiratory symptoms, much like a cold. You may have congestion and sneezing, but you will likely also have watery or itchy eyes and itchy skin. He emphasised that you can differentiate between colds due to allergies and colds caused due to any viral infection, as many viral infections have associated symptoms like fever, headache, and body aches.
Allergies Don't Happen in the Winter
This is a myth that revolves around allergies. Dr Harish said that allergies could happen throughout the year, and winters are no exception. There are chances you might notice the allergies more during winters because the triggers for allergy will increase, like pollen, and the cold weather itself leads to narrowing of the airways, which in turn leads to cough and wheezing. Hence allergies will definitely happen in winter.
Also Read: Unsure Of What Is Causing Allergies? Take These Allergy Tests To Find Out
Pollen and Food Allergies Don't Overlap
On this, Dr Harish highlighted that both could happen at once if an individual is sensitive to pollen and certain food products. Pollen Food Allergy Syndrome, also known as oral allergy syndrome, is brought on by allergens that can respond with both pollen and uncooked fruits, veggies, or even some tree nuts. The immune system triggers an allergic reaction when it recognises pollen and related proteins in food, which in turn can cause pollen and food allergies to overlap.
Takeaway
These myths and facts from an expert will help you know your allergies and deal with them better. In case you suffer from an allergy, consider visiting your doctor for better management of symptoms. Your doctor will work with you to find the triggers causing allergies and treat you accordingly.
Image Credits: freepik
