Allergies

Overview

Allergies occur when your body's immune system overreacts to harmless substances called allergens. These allergens can be common things like pollen, bee stings, or pet fur, but they can also be certain foods or medications that don't bother most people. Normally, your immune system makes antibodies to fight off harmful invaders like germs. But in allergies, the immune system mistakenly identifies a specific allergen as a threat and creates antibodies that attack it.  This triggers an allergic reaction, which can cause inflammation in various parts of the body, like your skin, nose, lungs, or digestive system. The severity of allergic reactions differs from person to person. Some might experience mild discomfort, while others might have a severe, life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis. While most allergies can't be permanently fixed, treatments can help manage and lessen allergy symptoms^[1]. 

Common Types of Allergies 

There are several types of allergies^[2]: 

• Food Allergies: Food allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies a specific protein in food as harmful, triggering an allergic reaction. This happens when the body produces an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE) in response to the offending food. Common food allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, milk, eggs, and wheat. Upon subsequent exposure to even a small amount of the allergenic food, the immune system releases histamines and other chemicals, leading to symptoms such as hives, swelling, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, or even anaphylaxis. Food allergies can be especially dangerous because the reaction can occur rapidly, often within minutes of ingestion, making immediate treatment and avoidance critical.
• Inhalant Allergies: Inhalant allergies are triggered by airborne allergens that are inhaled into the respiratory system. These allergens can be present year-round or seasonally, depending on their source. Perennial allergens, such as dust mites, mould, and pet dander, are found throughout the year and can cause ongoing symptoms like sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, and congestion. Seasonal allergens, such as pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, cause symptoms during specific times of the year, typically spring, summer, or fall. Inhalant allergies can lead to conditions like allergic rhinitis (hay fever), asthma, and sinusitis, and the severity of symptoms can vary depending on the allergen and the individual's immune response.
• Medication Allergies: A medication allergy occurs when the body’s immune system reacts to a particular drug or one of its ingredients. This type of allergy can cause a range of symptoms, from mild skin reactions, like hives or rashes, to more serious effects, such as difficulty breathing, swelling, or anaphylaxis. Common medications that cause allergic reactions include antibiotics (e.g., penicillin), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and anticonvulsants. In some cases, the immune system recognizes the medication or its components as foreign and triggers a hypersensitive reaction. These reactions can occur after the first dose or, more commonly, after repeated exposure. Immediate medical attention is necessary if symptoms suggest a severe allergic response.
• Latex Allergies: Latex allergies occur after repeated exposure to natural rubber latex, a substance derived from the sap of rubber trees. Latex is commonly found in medical gloves, balloons, condoms, and various household products. In people with latex allergies, the immune system mistakenly identifies latex proteins as harmful, triggering an allergic reaction. Symptoms can range from mild skin irritation and itching to more severe responses, including respiratory distress or anaphylaxis. Healthcare workers and individuals who have undergone multiple surgeries are at higher risk due to repeated exposure to latex products. People with latex allergies are often advised to avoid products containing latex and may use alternative materials such as nitrile gloves.
• Venom/Stinging Insect Allergies: Venom allergies occur when the immune system reacts to venom injected by stinging insects such as bees, wasps, hornets, or fire ants. For most people, a sting from one of these insects causes temporary pain, swelling, or redness. However, in individuals with a venom allergy, the body’s immune system overreacts to the venom, leading to a rapid, severe allergic response known as anaphylaxis. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include swelling, difficulty breathing, dizziness, and a drop in blood pressure, which can be life-threatening without immediate treatment. People who have experienced severe reactions to insect stings often carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) to rapidly counteract the effects of anaphylaxis in case of another sting.

Signs of Allergies 

These are common signs associated with allergies^[3]:

Respiratory 

• Congestion: This is a feeling of fullness or blockage in the nasal passages, making it difficult to breathe through the nose. It can be caused by inflammation and mucus buildup.
• Runny Nose (Rhinorrhea): This involves excessive mucus production and drainage from the nose. The mucus can be clear, white, or yellow depending on the cause and severity of the allergy.
• Sneezing: This is a forceful expulsion of air from the nose and mouth. It's often triggered by allergens irritating the nasal passages.
• Coughing: This is a reflex action that helps to clear the airway of irritants like allergens. It can be dry or accompanied by phlegm or mucus.
• Wheezing: This is a whistling sound during breathing, often heard when the airways are narrowed or constricted. It can be a sign of an allergic reaction affecting the lungs.
• Difficulty Breathing: This can be caused by swelling in the airways or by mucus buildup, making it difficult to get enough air. It's a serious symptom that requires prompt medical attention.

General

• Fatigue: Feeling tired and lacking energy can be a common symptom of allergies, as the body works hard to fight off the allergens.
• Headaches: Allergies can trigger headaches, especially if the sinuses are inflamed.
• Rashes, such as Hives: These are red, itchy welts that appear on the skin. They can be caused by an allergic reaction to food, medication, or other allergens.
• Nausea: A feeling of queasiness or sickness in the stomach.
• Vomiting: The expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth. This can be a symptom of food allergies.
• Fever: This is an elevated body temperature. While not a typical allergy symptom, it can occur with some types of allergies, particularly food allergies.

Eye 

• Swollen, Watery, or Puffy Eyes: These are common symptoms of allergies affecting the eyes.
• Itching: A sensation of irritation or discomfort in the eyes.
• Burning: A feeling of heat or discomfort in the eyes.

Allergies and TCIH Approaches

In addition to conventional treatments, several complementary therapies can help manage allergies more effectively:

• Ayurveda: Ayurvedic therapies are designed to promote overall well-being by stabilizing the body’s systems, restoring balance, and enhancing immune function. These therapies encompass a variety of approaches, including Shamana, which involves calming and balancing the body through tailored nutrition, lifestyle adjustments, and herbal formulations^[4]. 
• Buteyko: The Buteyko Method helps manage allergies by normalizing breathing patterns, which in turn regulates carbon dioxide levels in the body. This reduces airway inflammation, relaxes smooth muscles around the airways, and helps the immune system respond appropriately to allergens. By improving breathing, it can alleviate symptoms of asthma, allergies, and hay fever, often reducing the need for medication. The Buteyko Method empowers individuals to control their symptoms through breathing exercises, promoting better respiratory health and overall well-being^[5].
• Cupping: Cupping therapy can be an effective tool in managing allergies by helping to reduce inflammation, support detoxification, and enhance immune function. Allergy-specific cupping sessions typically treat asthma, congestion, phlegm, sinus issues, excessive coughing and excessive sneezing^[6]. 
• Dietitian: Registered Dietitians are experts who can guide you through the complexities of nutrition, offering personalized advice and support. They work closely with you to develop a tailored eating plan that suits your unique needs, preferences, and lifestyle^[7]. 
• Kinesiology: An applied kinesiologist uses specific techniques to help balance the nervous system and acupuncture meridians, which can play a key role in managing allergies. By considering the triad of health—structural (which influences the nervous system), chemical (through proper nutrition), and mental well-being—this approach supports the body in healing itself and helps restore balance, ultimately bringing allergy symptoms under control^[8].