Allergy to inhaled substances

Symptoms and causes

What is it?

An allergy is an unjustified reaction of our immune system to foreign substances entering through the skin (latex, insect poisons, cosmetics, etcetera), the respiratory system (pollen, house dust mites, animal dander, etcetera) or the digestive system (fish, crustaceans, milk, medication, etcetera). Approximately 30% of the population suffer from allergies.

Characteristics

Characteristics of hay fever (allergic rhinitis) include:

sneezing
itchy nose
runny nose
nasal congestion

An allergic reaction in the eyes is also possible (allergic conjunctivitis):
The most common characteristics are:

red eyes
itchy eyes
watery eyes
laryngitis
ear infections
sinusitis
asthma: coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing
eczema
hives (urticaria)

Some patients suffer year round, others only for a period of time.

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis

The following tests may reveal an allergy to inhaled substances:

Skin test:

We apply various allergens with a drop on the inside of the forearm or on the back.
We prick the skin under each drop.
After about 15 minutes, we can see if you are allergic or not.

Blood test:

A blood test is not always necessary.

Provocation tests:

These tests allow us to detect food and medication allergies. They are performed in a specialised centre.

Treatment

Avoid the things to which you are allergic. Allergy treatments are always customised for the individual. It depends on the type of allergy and the severity of the symptoms. Talk to your physician about your specific case.

The most common treatments are:

antihistamine: syrup or tablets that reduce your symptoms
nasal spray
anti-allergy eye drops
adrenaline preparation: you give yourself an injection in case of a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.
immunotherapy: it changes your immune system so that your body no longer reacts to the allergens or less strongly. It is performed with injections under the skin, or with droplets/tablets under the tongue.