Allergy (प्रत्युजरता, चिढ़, अधिहृषता)

Allergy

(Hay fever, Sensitivity, Susceptibility, Acquired Intolerance, श्वास, प्रत्युजरता, चिढ़, शीत पित्त, अधिहृषता)

                                         “Rock with the rhythm of nature”  
    
“Why do you have skin allergy or catch cold (running nose), stomach upset  so frequently?”

Do you catch a cold and get a running nose and sneezing, whenever there is a dust in the air, or even if someone is dusting near you, Or skin allergies ? Are seasonal changes affecting your mood, energy and productivity at work? Then you are most likely suffering from allergy!..........

An allergy is an exaggerated reaction by the immune system in response to exposure to a certain foreign substance called ‘allergens’. The response is exaggerated because these foreign substances are normally seen by the body as harmless in non-allergic individuals and do not cause a response in them. In allergic individuals body recognize the foreign substance and the allergic part of the immune system generates a response.

Allergy is an indication of lowered resistance and internal disharmony caused by dietetic errors and faulty style of living. Almost any part of the body can be affected by allergies. The portion of the body which is affected is called a shock organ. An allergic reaction typically triggers symptoms in the nose, lungs, throat, sinuses, ears, skin, chest and the lining of the stomach and intestine. The organs like liver and tissues like blood, muscles fats are also affected.

30-40 % of world population is affected by  one or more allergic  conditions including asthma, rhinitis, anaphylaxis, drug and angiodema.

The world health organization estimates that 50% of the population will suffer from at least one type of allergy by 2050. People suffer from allergies all year long. Allergies are more common in urban settings, notably due to the convergence of factors. One of those factors is air pollution, which also aggregates pollen allergies. Allergies are increasingly common due to environmental factors. Indoor air environment is 5-10 times more polluted than outdoors, as “domestic pollutants” used every day in indoor spaces

Approximately 10-30% people are affected by an allergic reaction in industry world and this number is increasing. Allergic rhinitis affects 20% people. Asthma affects 10% people. Food allergies affect 3-6% of children and 1-2% of adults. Approximately 8% of children and 2% of adult suffer from food allergies.

Allergies in young ones

• In developed countries about one in eight children have asthma.
• One in thirteen children suffer from eczema
• One in eight children have allergic rhinitis.
• Food allergies affects 3-6 % of children with one in forty developing peanut and milk.
• One in twenty develop egg allergy.

Living with an allergy can be difficult as they have their own set of  restrictions.

“Identify the allergens and avoid it”

Dandelion seeds blowing wind

Introduction

ALLERGY PRONE

• Allergic Rhinitis
• Asthma
• Adenoiditis
• Bronchitis
• Breathlessness
• Laryngitis
• Nasal Polyp
• Nasal Blockage
• Pharyngitis
•  Recurrent Cough & Cold
• Sinusitis
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Tonsilitis
• Wheezing
• Hay Fever

Allergies are the effect of our body's immune system, due to which the sensitivity towards some substances and chemicals that come in contact with our body becomes very high and sometimes this sensitivity can be  shown for a long time.

The substance or the chemicals that causes an allergy in the body is allergen and allergens can be found anywhere, They can be found in food , drinks, plants and even in medicines. Most allergens are not harmful or it can be said that  the effect of  most of them is not felt by most people, but for those whose body is sensitive to allergens, the problem of allergies can be extremely harmful. If your body is sensitive to allergens, it means that your immune system considers any common allergen that enters your body  as harmful and wants to attack it , wants to attack it, want break it down. It is due to this attack that red spots swelling or hives appear on the body . Allergies are a common thing among people all over world. It is believed that  about 15-20% of people are affected by some form of allergy in their lifetime or they need treatment to prevent this allergy. In such a situation, understanding allergies better can be very beneficial.

An allergy is an abnormal / hypersensitive reaction to a certain substances termed allergens. These substances are well tolerated by most people, but others may react adversely to these agents. These individuals may be  termed allergic to those substances.

An allergy reaction usually takes place when the immune system reacts to a substance that normally doesn't harm or pose a threat to the body. It occurs when's specific immune system perceives it as a threat and attacks it. One can have such a reaction after inhaling, eating or touching an allergen.

Skin allergies are quite common today, and it is easy for people to pop anti allergic pill to get relief from constant itching and unsightly eruptions. Urticaria (also called hives ) is one such skin condition,commonly caused by an allergic reaction, and is characterized by raised red weals. Skin health is an outward expression of our internal imbalances that exhibit themselves in the form of eruptions or itching. The root cause behind this indisposition is endogenic/hereditary allergy which makes person prone to various skin ailments like urticaria.

An allergy is a specific immunological reaction to a normally harmless substance, one that does not bother most people. People develop allergic  problems because of an overactive immune system in which certain gamma globulin's IgE are overproduced by the body. Multiple allergies can occur due to poor adrenal gland functioning. Emotional and psychological stress also contribute to it.

"Hypersensitivity results from a second exposure to what could be normally harmless antigen.(= Allergen) . The second response is not an appropriate normal one. The immune system goes too far."

T cells response : 

The release of chemicals from mast cells in the skin causes small blood vessels to leak and result in tissue swelling called weals. The can be few millimetres or several centimetres in diameter, colored while or red surrounded by a red flare and frequently itchy.

1.    The first step is Exposure- to allergen/ pollen.

2.    The second step is Sensitization- Allergen activates sensitized  mast cells and antibodies are produced.

3.    The third step is Re-Exposure/ or Histamine release.  These antibodies travel to cells that release histamine and causes an allergic reaction.

4.    The fourth step is Allergic Response Sneezing, watery eye and  nose etc.

Anaphylaxis is a rare but severe allergic reaction. It can occur suddenly, can worsen quickly and can be deadly. It occurs when certain allergens come into contact with the body.

Acquired intolerance are allergic reactions to food  such as wheat or dairy products that are acquired over time. These kind of intolerance stem from an overactive immune system with a root cause of too many toxins in the body.

                                    "Understand Allergy to avoid complications."

How to find a source?

One of the most reliable ways of pinpointing food allergies is by keeping a food and symptom diary. Make sure you write it down everything you eat over a period of several weeks, as well as the symptoms you experience. Over time you will able to understand whether your symptoms are triggered or subdued by eating certain foods.

In Ayurveda allergy is linked to the constitution (Prakriti प्रकृति ) of a person. “Sheetapitta” (शीत पित्त ) is a term used in Ayurveda for the allergic disorder. According to Ayurveda, vata - dominant allergies begin from the intestine, pitta- dominant allergies affect the skin, and Kapha dominant allergies affect the respiratory tract. According to Ayurveda upper- respiratory tract allergies begin in the stomach. A poor diet leads to undigested toxins (आम ). After a while, if these toxins remain in the body, they travel to the lungs, neck and head, where they accumulate in the lungs, airway tubes and sinuses, causing problems for you. Vata aggravated respiratory allergies are accompanied by gas, bloating, dry skin, dry throat, cough, sneezing and wheezing. When the allergy strikes, phlegm blocks the nose and sinuses. If there is a fever, infection  or foul taste in the mouth, then the allergy is pitta- aggravated. However pitta- aggravated allergies tend to manifest as skin rashes and hives

According to Ayurveda
*    Vata (Air element) dominated allergies begin from the intestine,
*    Pitta (Fire element) dominated allergies affect the skin, and
*    Kapha (Water element) dominated allergies affect the upper respiratory tract.

'Bangalureans' Pollen Allergies

Parthenium hysterophorus . Congress grass, Bad for Asthma.

Olive Tree 

Olive Tree

Allergic Potential

Olive tree pollen is extremely allergenic, with an OPALS allergy scale rating of 10 out of 10. Olea europaea is primarily wind-pollinated and its light, buoyant pollen is a strong trigger for asthma. One popular variety, "Swan Hill", is widely sold as an "allergy-free" olive tree; however, this variety does bloom and produce allergenic pollen.

Ogren Plant Allergy Scale

Purpose measure plant potential to cause allergic reaction.

OPALS The Ogren plant allergy scale is an allergy rating system for plants that measures the potential of a plant to cause allergic reactions in humans.

Scale system

The OPALS allergy scale was first published in Allergy-Free Gardening, by Thomas Leo Ogren, in 2000.It covers over 3,000 common trees, shrubs, flowers, and grasses. The allergy scale was updated and extended in 2015 in The Allergy-Fighting Garden.

The Ogren Plant Allergy Scale takes into account pollen allergies, contact allergies, and odor allergies, with higher weighting given to pollen allergies that are caused by inhaling pollen into the lungs. Additionally, plants that cause contact allergies (such as rashes or itching), or that are highly poisonous when ingested even though their pollen does not cause respiratory allergies, are never given low ratings.

Low allergy ratings are considered to be 1 through 3 on the allergy scale. Mid-range ratings are 4 through 6, and high ratings are 7 through 10. Plants with ratings of 9 or 10 have an extremely high potential to cause allergic reactions.

OPALS Rating	Guideline
1–3	Very low potential to cause allergic reactions
4–6	Moderate potential to cause allergic reactions, exacerbated by over-use of the same plant throughout a garden
7–8	High potential to cause allergic reactions, advise to plant as little as possible
9–10	Extremely high potential to cause allergic reactions, should be replaced with less allergenic species

Covid-19, Common Cold, Flu Or An Allergy

The predominant symptoms of an Allergy are :

• Allergic Rhinitis  : Nasal watering and sneezing, triggered by exposure to allergens or a change in weather.. They may last for weeks to several months and respond well to Antihistamines (drugs  which treat allergies ) and steroidal nasal spray. Allergic rhinitis can last for weeks to months. The duration is related to amount of allergen exposure.
• Flu : A Flu is a viral infection and its initial symptoms may be  similar to those of a common cold. Flu comes suddenly. Its other symptoms includes chills and sweats, headache, muscle pain and dry cough.
• Common Cold : However the onset of common cold is slow.
• Covid -19 : Covid -19 's initial symptoms are similar to Flu in mild cases. The incubation period is slightly longer than flu, and the disease may be more severe. In Covid -19  80% patients have mild symptoms, while 15% may develop severe disease with lung involvement requiring oxygen, and 5% may require I.C.U care

 "A breast fed baby is not prone to allergies.  There are less chances of diarrhea, eczema, coughs, colds and asthma in breastfed babies. "

Types of Allergies:

Respiratory allergies

Spring allergy:  There is no cure but you can take steps to curb it by medication and household habits.

Summer allergies: are usually triggered by pollen from grasses and weeds.

Fall allergies: Mold and dust mites are biggest allergy triggers in fall.

Indoor Allergies If you have indoor allergies such as pets, mold, and dust mites in air-conditioners, coolers, mattresses, blankets and pillows you may notice symptoms more during winter when you spend more time inside. Other allergens can be chemicals, hair sprays, deodorants,, incense sticks and condiments used in the kitchen.

Allergic rhinitis (Hay fever) : This disease occur due to a deficiency on our body's disease resistance and is actually a type  of allergy that affects people who come into contact with allergens, primarily pollen. it is also known as allergic rhinitis. This type of allergy  is of two types, seasonal allergies, which occur only in one particular season of the year when there is a proliferation of  allergenic pollen in the environment and surrounding areas, and the other is perineal allergies persist throughout the year. It is a common disease, which is a reaction of the upper respiratory tract to a variety of allergens and is mediated by a type of immunoglobulin called (IgE). The most common allergies are dust, mites, pets, cockroaches, Mold, pollen of some flowers, , animal hair,feathers,  and certain chemicals.

Pet Allergies : Contact with pets that are kept inside the houses can also cause allergies at times. Skin itching or rashes are often seen upon contact with these animals.A protein called Feld 1 is found in the saliva of cats, and many people experience an allergic reaction to just its scent. Similarly there is a possibility of allergies from the urine, saliva, hair and feces of pets.  Dog and cat allergy: Responsible for indore allergy.It can be found in the people having pets.

Extrinsic allergic alveolitis: Allergies are usually spores of microorganism (e.g. Micropolyspora faeni in farmer's or avian proteins (e.g. droppings or feathers in birds fancier’s  lung)

"People can become hypersensitive to food . This can cause what are known as delayed or hidden food allergies or sensitivities."

Food allergies

Allergies caused by food :

At some point in life, everyone has to deal with food allergies.  It is often seen that  immediately  after inhaling or consuming food , the body experiences  allergies.  Allergies such as swelling, dryness of skin or diarrhea are seen after consuming food.

Dermatitis rash caused by Shitake Mushrooms

Milk allergy:  Casein in a protein found in milk is the cause of allergy. It causes sneezing, vomiting and hives. Lactose intolerance found in milk causing diarrhea. Many people have been seen to have milk allergies. After consuming milk, some people develop redness or itching on the skin, and such people are advised  to stay away from  milk or any  product made from milk.  Allergies has also been observed to cause vomiting and sneezing. Lactose Intolerance : Due to deficiency of enzyme.

Egg Allergies : They are more common in children than in adults, after consuming white part of an egg.  Reaction ranges from mild to severe.

Peanut Allergies: People with peanut allergies are advised to stay away from its oil, products made from it, and its seeds. Often after eating peanuts, red or black marks appear on the body and nausea occurs. Other  nuts like cashew and walnut are common.

Fish Allergies or Shellfish: are basically protein allergies. People who consume fish in their diet can also face allergies several times. The sudden appearance of any kind of bumps  on the body, diarrhea, redness in the eyes and water flow indicate  an allergy related to fish.

Soy: If allergic one should skip soy sauce, tofu, and Soybean milk, soybean granules. As Soy  is a big part of processed food too. Soy allergy refers to an allergy caused by soybean's, lentils, chickpeas, black beans and pulses. Diarrhea,nausea and redness in the eyes occur suddenly after consuming their seeds due to allergies.

Incompatible foods:  Taking hot and cold foods together, milk with fish, honey and ghee in equal quantities. i.e. Banana shake is not recommended .

Sulfite sensitivity: These are Sulphur based compounds that may occur naturally or may be added to food as an enhancer and preservative.

Wheat / Gluten Allergy: Many people have been seen to have allergies due to the protein found in wheat. Due to the presence of gluten, allergies such as rashes, itching, abdominal pain, diarrhea, bronchospasm, (symptoms of asthma), and anaphylaxis have been observed. Gluten is basically a type of protein found in wheat, barley, rye, which sometimes can irritate a person's intestines cause allergic reaction. Wheat, wheat germ, barley, gram, rye, semolina, oat etc. It is a challenge to avoid wheat because it is present in so many things. Substitute can be rice. The common items are bread, pasta, cereals, cakes, cookies, chapattis. Others include gravies, croutons, bread crumbs, soup sticks, biscuits, rolls, pita, noodles. Ice cream cones, wheat bran, dumplings, rye bread, cornbread, doughnuts, vermicelli, buns, pizza, spaghetti, pastries. Alcohol beverages mostly made of grains. Drinks like beer, whiskey, vodka, gin. Processed meat is high in gluten because various grains are used in their manufacture. Sweets such as Gram flour, (Besan बेसन )  or Atta  ladoo, balushahi, (बालूशाही )  shakkar pare (शक्कर पारे )  and products made of malts like chocolate, candies etc.

A look at intestinal allergies: The intestine is one of the largest barriers to infections and allergies, capable of capturing and destroying minute allergens. In some conditions, the system breaks down. Eventually, large allergens can enter your inner body. Factors that break down the immune system in the gut are as follows: bad diet, too many antibiotics and painkillers, fried foods, and sodas, irregular meal timings, mental stress and lack of sleep.

Foods: Protein allergies are common in Gram, corn, dal, eggs, fish, chicken, meat, prawn, seafood. artificial milk in liquid and powder form, milk products, butter.chocolates,tomatoes, citrus fruits,coconut.

Sulfite Allergy Due Sulfite are group of chemicals that are derived from sulphur. Sulfite are considered as  one of the top ten allergy causing agents. Sulfite are  used as preservatives or protectants in various types of food, and according to FDA, one of the hundred people are at risk of being allergic to this chemical.

Casein  Allergy : If your lips swell, turn red or start to feel burning sensation after drinking glass of milk  or chewing a Piece of pizza, you should consider that  you are allergic to casein.  This is caused by the presence of a protein called casein in milk or milk based products. Many times, people also experience this with cheese, butter and cream.

“As a part of gluten free ‘grains’ should be avoided”

Skin allergies

Seasonal Allergy : It is common to see many people suffer from allergies as soon as the spring season arrives. In this season, new leaves and flowers start blooming on the trees and their pollen floats in the air. Contact with this pollen can cause allergies in many people and they struggle with  various problems such as asthma, coughing, sneezing and redness in the eyes. The symptoms of spring allergies are sometime visible in summer as well. There is no cure but you can take steps to curb it by medication and household habits.

Winter Allergy : Winter  allergies can become painful, if not given adequate attention and care. As humidity levels drop in winter and makes the skin dry. This breaks the natural skin barrier that controls how much water will go in your skin and how much will go out through the skin. The patients experience dryness and flakiness during the colder months of the year, especially if you’re prone to eczema or other dry skin conditions. With the onset of winters, many develop scaly red rashes, which can be allergic to nature

Contact Dermatitis : Something touches the skin and your immune system thinks it’s under attack. It overreacts and sends antibodies to help fight the invader called an allergen. The result is a red itchy rash where the substance landed. Detergents, bleach, jewelry, latex, nickel, paint, poison,  ivy and other poisonous plants, skin care products, including makeup soaps and perfumes, solvents,, tobacco, smoke.

Allergic Conjunctivitis : It is known as Pink eye allergy, and is generally caused by  bacteria or viruses. When this allergy occurs , the eyes become red and  there is also swelling.

Hives  / Urticaria Allergy  : These are an outbreak of small  red swollen bumps appear on many parts of  the face and body and there is burning or itching on the skin. This allergy on the skin forms and disappears in different parts of the body temporarily. The patches on the skin that appear suddenly as a result of allergies.

Angioedema : In angioedema, swellings happens under the skin, not on the surface. With the swelling of lips and eyelids.

Allergic to Poison :  Ivy, oak and sumac These are the plants that contain irritating, oily sap called urushiol, which  triggers an allergic reaction when it comes in contact with skin, resulting in an itchy rash which can occur within hours of exposure.

Allergic after insect sting :  It is common to develop allergies on body after being bitten by many insects, mosquitoes and flies. Although these allergies do not long on the body for a very long time. Bee, wasp, yellow jacket, hornet, or fire ant stings that most often triggers allergies.

Sunlight Allergy Many people’s skin will burn if there is enough exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Sunburn occurs in the sensitive skin.

Cosmetics Allergy : Cosmetics claims to enhance our beauty but many times their use is also leads to negative effects.Many chemicals, fragrances and preservatives used in cosmetics can become a cause of allergy. Some beauty products can cause allergies. Certain ingredients used in cosmetics, for  fragrance and preservatives, can act as an allergen. Lipstick and stick bindi allergy are common.

Nickel : It is a skin reaction that develops after exposure to ornaments containing nickel.

Physical Agents : such as heat, cold and sunlight

Chemicals : newspaper ink

Atopic Eczema : The most common skin allergy which worsens in winter is atopic eczema. This is a condition where skin develops red, dry, itchy, rashes and this worsens when the weather gets cold and dry. Sometimes these rashes may be scaly when they appear on hands and legs. Patients with asthma are more prone to skin allergies.

DD.   Hair dye : can cause hives, urticaria or peeling red skin, sometimes even have blood oozing out from the affected area. Some can even get acute, along with swelling over the face.

EE.  Allergies from medications : Many chemicals and herbal medicines can also cause allergies. Many times, as soon as the medicines enter the body, the body's immune system attack these drugs and results in an allergy.

FF.  Synthetic undergarments: It  causes rashes.

GG. Plastic Slippers : May cause eczema in the foot.

HH  House Dust : Allergies from the dust can cause asthma, breathing difficulties and burning of the eyes and these effect last for a longer time.

Allergies Due To Plant Liquid : Allergies also occur when encountering liquid substances from some plant, Many plants contains chemicals such as urushiol that causes allergies when they come in contact with human skin, and the effect of this allergy can last for several days. 

Aspirin / Salicylate Allergy : Its a chemical compound found in many plants, aspirin and many pain killers. It is also found in many vegetables and fruits.  Many times, allergies have been seen with its consumption.

"Allergy to citrus fruits is not uncommon and so such fruits should be tried after the age of 1 year in allergy prone children."

Drugs allergies : Penicillin, sulpha.

Intestinal allergies :

      The intestine is one of the largest barriers to infections and allergies, capable of capturing and destroying many allergens. In some conditions, this system breaks down. Eventually large allergens can enter your inner body.

Children born into families with a history of allergy as well as those who consume animal milk in the first year of life  are more prone to get allergic disorders. Babies exclusively breastfed  for the first 6 months of life  are less prone to it,

Food That may be Avoided in First Year Of life

Food that are more  likely to give  rise to allergic  reactions may be avoided till the child completes one year.. These are : artificial milk,  (cow, buffalo or powder milk), eggs, fish, and citrus fruits like orange and sweet lime.

In families with strong history of allergy, besides avoid foods, even peanuts, other nuts, chocolate, wheat, corn, onions, tomatoes, cabbage, and all types of berries should be avoided.If any member of the family reacts adversely to a particular food avoid that as well.

Also avoid fried foods and food that contain added sugar or artificial sweeteners. or high in salts. Honey is also restricted  below the age of one year, because it may contain certain infective agents. 

Diagnosis

●   History  The doctor will ask patient questions regarding symptoms, when they occur, how often, and what seems to cause them.

●    Skin allergy needs to be examined by a qualified dermatologist to assess the problem and advise the patient the right care.
●     Blood Test  This measures the level of IgE antibodies released by the immune system. The test is called the radio- allergosorbent test (RAST)
●    Skin prick test This is also known as puncture testing or prick testing. The skin is pricked with a small amount of allergen. If the skin reacts and becomes itchy, red and swollen, it may mean an allergy is present.
●    Patch test A patch test can identify eczema. Special metal disc with very small amount of a suspected allergen are tapped into the individuals back. The doctor check for a skin reaction 48 hours later, and then again after a couple of days.

●    Complete Allergy test :  Food, skin and inhalant

●    Comprehensive Allergy : test to know the cause of allergy: 98 marks are made on sides of arms. These tests are done by special type of machine which is available in laboratories.

●    Specific blood test. Neutrophils, ESR, Eosinophils

●    Gluten allergy test

●    X-Ray for sinusitis

 “Moisturizing   your skin is a good practice"

Causes

●    Some allergies are genetic while others are caused by bad diet and poor lifestyle. 
●     According to Ayurveda vata dominant allergies begin from the intestine, pitta dominant allergies affect the skin and kapha dominant allergies affect the upper respiratory tract. 
●     Liver dysfunction.                             


                               "For respiratory allergy inhaling steam is the best option."



Allergens

●    Metals- Cobalt, nickel, chromium present in jewelry, jean, studs, buttons

●    Dichromate- Present in cement, leather, matches

●    Rubber chemicals- Present in clothing, shoes, tyre

●    Colophony- Present in sticking plaster

●    Paraphenylenediamine- Present in hair dye, clothing’s

●    Balsam of Peru- Present in Perfumes, citrus fruits

●    Topical application- Neomycin, benzocaine

●    Drugs- Penicillin, Septran , Erythromycin.

●    Vaccines- Especially measles and polio as they are live vaccines.

●    Parabens- Present in preservatives in cosmetics, creams

●    Wool alcohols- Present in lanolin, cosmetics, creams

●    Epoxy resin- Present in resin adhesive

●    Chemicals- used to develop and clean the photographs, formalin

●    Gluten- It’s a protein found in grains. Present in wheat, barley, gram flour

●    Chilies and other spices

●    Polythene, nylon, pesticides

●    Preservatives- in fruit juices other eatables

●    Artificial colors- added in food items

●    Dry cleaning fluids- have strong chemicals

●    Soap, detergents, bleaches

●    Mosquito repellent coils- Kachchua chap Agarbatti, OR Good night mats.

●    Pollen allergy- Pollen released from the plants reach the human noses and throats, triggering a type of seasonal allergic rhinitis called pollen allergy (hay fever/ or rose fever).

●    Air pollution- Inhaled irritant includes: tobacco smoke, fireplace smoke, smoke from burning wood, grass or leaves, ashes, aerosol spray, strong perfumes, cooking odor, musty doors, fur of animals, traffic fumes, feathers, cigarette smoke,  desert dust, bleach (cleaning products).

●    Dust mite- (microscopic bug) breed in your carpets, sofas, mattresses, upholstery, curtains and humid places in the house. It’s a major year-round allergy the world over. Mites do not directly bite or cause allergies, proteins from their waste products like droppings and dead bodies, actually provoke the allergic reaction. Particles seen floating in a shaft of sunlight are dead dust mites and their waste products; they feed on human hair, human epidermis (skin) scales.

●    Mold or mould - It grows from microscopic fungal spores. As they are so small, mould spores may evades the protective mechanisms of the nose and upper respiratory tract to reach the lungs and bring on asthma symptoms. Hotspot of mould growth in the home includes damp basements and closets, bathrooms, places where fresh food is stored, refrigerator drip trays, houseplants, air conditioners, humidifiers, garbage place, mattresses, upholstered furniture and old foam rubber pillows.

●    Astonia Polaris- (Saptaparni) the pollens of this tree are allergens, therefore it’s plantation should be stopped.

●    Parthenium- (Congress grass) A weed found in Bangalore and roadside  causes environmental pollution, which is bad for asthmatics.

●    Black oleoresin- The ink extracted from marking nut (Semecarpus anscardiun) causes numerous cases of “dhobi itch” an allergic dermatitis at the site of contact, usually the nape of neck.

●    Urtica dioica- or stinging nettle is a flowering plant. The leaves and stems are covered with long fine to bristly hair that can irritate and blister skin when handled. When human skin comes into contact with leaf or stem it develops reddish patch accompanied by itching and burning.

●    Cashew nut tree- Anacardium occidentale bears reddish fruit that contain the kidney-shaped nut. This acidic fruit causes skin irritation. The plant sap from bark, leaves causes painful skin reaction resemblance second degree burns.

●    Mango fruit- It contains urushiol in their exocarp (outer skin). It causes the facial and peri-oral dermatitis, when a sensitized individual bites into an unpeeled mango.
*    Dust storm impact _ Sensitive  persons are affected.
*    Chemical Preservatives
a . Allura A C Food coloring in snacks, sauces, preserves, soups, wine etc.  Avoid if you are suffering from asthma, rhinitis ( including hay fever ), or urticaria .
*    Amaranth Food coloring in wine, spirits, fish roe. Avoid if you are suffering from asthma, rhinitis, urticaria or other allergies.
*    Ponceau 4R Conchineal Red A  Food coloring . People who suffer from asthma, rhinitis, or urticaria may find their symptoms become worse following consumption of foods containing this coloring. 
*   Calcium benzoate Preservatives in many foods, including drinks, low sugar products, cereals, meat products.  Can temporary inhibit functions of digestive enzymes and may deplete levels of the amino acid glycine. Should avoid by those with hay fever, hives, and asthma.
*   Saccharin & its Na, K and Ca salts Sweetener in diet, and no- sugar products. The international agency on cancer has concluded that saccharin is possibly carcinogenic to humans.
*   Propyl p -hydroxy benzoate, propyl paraben , and paraben Preservatives in cereals , snacks, meat products and confectionery. Parabens have been identified as the cause of chronic dermatitis in numerous instances.
*  Sodium sulphite  Preservative used in wine- making & other processed foods. Sulphites have been associated with triggering asthma attacks. Most asthmatics are sensitive to sulphites in food.
*   Sulphur dioxide Preservative  Sulphur dioxide reacts with a wide rang e of substances found in food, including various essential vitamins, minerals, enzymes and essential fatty acids.. Adverse reactions bronchial problems particularly in those prone to asthma, hypertension (low blood pressure), flushing tingling sensations or anaphylactic shock.
*   Tartrazine Yellow food coloring May cause allergic reactions and asthmatic attacks and has been implicated  in bouts of hyperactivity disorder in children. Those who suffer from asthma , rhinitis and urticaria may find symptoms worsen after consumption.

“Detoxification of the body at the regular intervals”

Signs and Symptoms

●    Sneezing often accompanied by running or clogged nose, coughing and post nasal drip. The sneezing is mainly due to allergens that attack the olfactory area. The body as a safety reaction tries to expel it in form of forceful sneezing.

●    Watering and itching in eyes, nose and throat.

●    Shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing

●    Eruptions or itching over the body, rashes, hives, raised red weals.

●    Face, lips, swelling of the eyes

●    Redness of skin, Eruptions over the skin,

●    Swelling of face and eyes

●    Nausea, vomiting, pain in abdomen

●    Bloating, indigestion, irregular bowel habits, and food intolerance.

●    Diarrhea, Heartburn

●    Pain in joints

●    A headache, irritability, dizziness

●    Allergic shiners (dark circles under the eyes caused by increased blood flow near the sinuses).

●    The “allergic salute” (in a child persistent upward rubbing of the nose that causes a crease mark on the nose)

Symptoms of respiratory allergies : The respiratory tract extends from the nose to the furthest ends of the lungs, the alveoli, and the allergy can affect any or the parts. The symptoms could range from watery eyes, sneezing, runny or  blocked nose, repeated running of nose, especially in children (called salute sign)  itching of throat, rattling of chest, wheezing and breathlessness.

“Indoor pollution causes more damage to your body than outdoor pollution”

Common Allergies

Allergies can manifest as

1. Asthma
2. Eczema
3. Hay Fever (allergic cold)
4. Urticaria (hives)
5. Anaphylaxis (severe allergic shock) and
6. Diarrhea
7. Contact dermatitis

Asthma In Children

Symptoms

In a typical case, a 4 year old child goes to sleep normally and gets  up wheezing in the middle of the night. He has difficulty in taking air in and pushing it out. The breathing is faster than usual. When he breaths in , the child has sometimes to take the help of his neck muscles. The normal gap between the two clavicle (collar bones)  tends to dip  during inspiration (breathing in). While breathing out , the child makes a musical hissing sound termed 'wheezing' The expiration  (breathing out)  is more prolonged than usual. The child finds it easier  to breathe sitting up or wants a pillow or two  on the lap  or put his head  on it for comfort. If the child has had eczema before or has had similar attacks before  this episode or has a strong family history  of allergy  or was artificially fed  (not breastfed) , the diagnosis is more or less confirmed. It does not mean that a breast fed child  cannot get asthma. It is just that artificially fed children are at a much higher risk.

Treatment

Consult your doctor to decide  if it is asthma. Do not over react if your child gets an attack of asthma. You may pass your anxiety on to the  child and so worsen the attack. Follow your doctors advice on handling  the situation. Give the prescribed medication by mouth or by inhalation, keep the child comfortably warm without covering him excessively, let there be free flow of air into the room (switch on the air conditioner) and give him enough liquids including water. If he has fever, avoid aspirin and ibuprofen, as they can worsen the attack of asthma. Paracetamol would be better. Avoid  giving cough syrups (specially  those containing codeine). As long as your child is not in acute distress and is accepting some food and enough liquids, you can manage him at home. Wheezing by itself should not worry you. Consult your doctor, however. if the breathing becomes faster, if child has difficulty taking in air and if he is becoming exhausted. Your doctor can advise hospitalization. This should be done  before the child starts fighting for breath or become blue.

Even if you normally do not like the use  of drugs  like corticosteroids and antibiotics, do not hesitate to use these if your doctor prescribe them in this situation. If your child refuses to take oral steroids, a single injection of dexamethasone (1.7 mg / kg).

If your child is prone to frequent attacks, consider buying a nebulizer. This is very handy for use during an acute attack. However, a metered-dose inhaler. (used by adults) with an easily available spacer device and facial mask is preferable for routine use. 

You might also consult a child psychologist or a family Counselor to see if a slightly older child  needs a extra emotional support. An older child may  be  introduced to yoga, but do not force him to practice it  if he is not interested. or is not yet ready for it.

Skin test for allergy and desensitization are also available. In these repeated injections with increasing concentration of extracts of the substance to which the child shows an allergic reaction are given.They may be considered if you have tried other measures under expert supervision, and you find that  your child cannot carry out his normal activities including schooling and your doctor assures you that there is a competent person  who will do these test and undertakes the follow-up treatment.

Prevention

Besides a family tendency, passive smoking, allergy to certain foods, sudden exertion in form of unaccustomed exercise or sports, anxiety or unsolved conflict at home or school, and respiratory infections may precipitate an attack. However sports should be encouraged. Children who get exercise-induced asthma are given medication for their asthma immediately before the activity. Also 2 gram of ascorbic acid (vitamin C), given one hour before exercise. has been shown to have  protective effects for such children.

House dust mixes with mites in the room of which the child sleeps should be specially taken care of. Keep cockroaches away. The room should be kept scrupulously clean and have minimum furniture in it. Old books, clothes, blankets and musty beddings may trigger the attack. Expose them to the sun frequently. Make sure no dust remains on fans, in corners, behind or underneath the furniture or on curtains. Thin curtains, which can be washed frequently, are better than thick or heavy curtains. Mob the room with wet cloth rather than dust it. Avoid using wool blankets and carpets.

Also avoid keeping stuffed toys and plants in the room. Hairy pets can also  be a source of allergy. If your child has asthma, do consult your doctor before you get a pet.

If you have a vacuum cleaner, use it only while the child is away from home.

Let the child avoid all types of talcum powder, strong perfumes, scented soaps, cold drinks, as well as sudden variation of temperature (for instance a very cold air-conditioned room from outside where the temperature is very high.) Sudden exertion and certain foods that he is allergic to (eggs, cold drink, peanuts, packed drinks and wafers etc.

To find out whether a the child is allergic to the foods listed above, first introduce an item into the diet when he is perfectly well. Watch for a week. If the child remains well (without medication) , he is probably not allergic to  that item of food. Avoid offering any suspicious item for 6 months and than try again.  If the child react severely to any food , do not offer it for at least a year.

Banana are often blamed  for bringing an attack of cold  and asthma. This is probably not true.If the child who is given a banana gets an attack on certain occasions and not on others, he is probably not allergic to it.  A banana, especially when given on an empty stomach (at least half an hour to one hour before meals) is a healthy fruit and should not be easily discarded from the child's diet.

The good news about asthma is that  if the attack start in early childhood, they are more likely to disappear with age. Also in children without a history of  heredity and other factors mentioned above, and in whom the attack always start with a viral cold rather than coming up suddenly, the diagnosis of asthma should never be made in a hurry. Such children temporary react to the cold with a wheeze but may not have asthma. Half the children with definite attacks of asthma are likely to be free of symptoms within 10 to 20 years. However recurrence are known in adulthood. Also, those who have severe attacks in early childhood are more often found to continue getting attacks in adulthood.

At times children with asthma may have a persistent cough that worsen at night. These children may not have any attack of wheezing, but they do benefit from drugs prescribed for asthma.

Eczema in children

 

Symptoms

If a 2 or 3 months old baby develops red patches of itchy dry skin on his face , forehead and the back of the ears, he is probably heading for an allergic skin condition called eczema. Itching makes  the rash worse  and the skin starts oozing. As the secretion dries up , scaly patches may be noticed.. If the broken down skin  becomes infected, pus like discharge is observed and the child may develop fever.

In older children , eczema presents as itchy, dry skin. The front of the elbows  and the back of the knees are more commonly affected.

Eczema is more commonly in babies given artificial milk. Babies exclusively breastfed  for the first 6 months of life  are less prone to it. In the families with a strong history of allergy, exclusive breastfeeding is therefore advisable for 6 months. An older infant may get  this allergy with an egg, milk, peanut or a wheat preparation.

Another similar condition termed a contact dermatitis may develop because of  contact with an irritating substance like woolen clothing, certain soaps or oils, besan (gram flour paste) , a bubble bath, disposable diapers or certain plants.

Treatment

The treatment of eczema remains  more or less symptomatic.  The principles are to keep the skin moist, minimize itching , and to try to find the possible allergen. Avoid frequent washing of the skin (specially with soap), it is likely to dry it more. Linseed oil may be applied over the itchy patch.  Apply an ointment(ung. emulsificans aquosum, BP), available from the chemist., instead of soap.  Pat the skin dry with a soft towel and do not rub. Avoid application of besan (gram flour) paste on the skin. Some children may also get a rash  from using certain expensive soaps (including baby soap)  and oils. Application of milk creams  may also cause rash.

Keep the child's nails short.Do not use mittens (as hard gloves) at night unless the itching is severe.  If you must use them , check inside the mittens  that they are smooth and do not have any loose threads that may get entangled with the child's fingers.

The doctor may prescribe oral anti-histamine drug like chlorphenaramine. Cold compress on the rash  may be found to be soothing. Soothing ointments  containing corticosteroids  should be used only  in consultation with a doctor, since they are absorbed into  the body through  the skin  and may cause side effects . If applied, they should be used in a very small amounts.  If the skin gets infected , the doctor may prescribe antibiotic. In a very severe cases , cyclosporine, a potentially toxic drug, has been found to be helpful.

A mother who is breastfeeding  may try avoiding possible allergens(food) from her diet.

If you need to be on a prolonged  milk free diet, consider taking some calcium preparations and vitamin B 12. A diet  that includes fruits, vegetables and sprouts  is essential. 

Some babies who are allergic to cow milk may tolerate soya milk better, though some children are also allergic to soya milk. Premature babies may not have satisfactory  weight gain with soya milk . Some people are also showing concern  about the presence of  high levels of aluminium  and phytoestrogen in soya milk preparations. , though no definite adverse effects have been substantiated because of presence of these two.

Hay Fever (allergic cold)

Causes

It s a seasonal condition related to allergens present in the child's environment  like pollen  from trees or grass.

Symptoms

It is present as itching  in the nose and palate, and frequent sneezing and watery discharge from the nose., with or without redness of eyes. The attacks only appears in a certain season of the year  and respond dramatically  though temporarily  to antihistamines. The child becomes completely free of symptoms  once removed from the offending environment.

Similar symptoms are seen  all through the year  in some children. In such cases , the underline cause is an allergen at home like house dust or animal hair.

Urticaria (hives) in Children

Symptoms

This condition manifest as  itchy, pink or reddish raised patches of skin that tend to come and go, to reappears on other parts of the body. The size of the patch may vary from 1 millimetre to a few centimetres (giant urticaria). Itching may be severe or mild. 

Causes

Itching may be severe or mild Urticaria may follow intake of certain foods like fish, eggs and nuts or some drugs or certain infectious agents.. Contact with some plants may also be responsible.  At times, no obvious cause can be determined.

Treatment

Most cases respond to histamines. As the patches tend to recur, treatment must be continued for as long as the doctor advises. At times, an injection of adrenaline is given for immediate relief, especially if the patches are also associated with edema or swelling. If the cause is known. the same should be taken care of.

Anaphylaxis (severe allergic shock)

 

Causes :

This is a serious, though rare reaction following injection of certain drugs like penicillin and antitoxins that are made from horse serum for the treatment of tetanus or for poisoning following snake or scorpion bites. Occasionally, the sting of an insect may also cause it.  Such a reaction  can sometimes also be seen with  an oral medication.

Symptoms

The patient with anaphylaxis complains of a constructing sensation in the throat and chest, develops urticaria and has difficulty in swallowing. He may become unconscious and stop breathing.

Treatment

This is a serious condition needing immediate medical attention. An injection of adrenaline and mouth-to-mouth breathing with cardiac (heart) massage may be needed.

Spring Catarrh

 

Try to identify the allergy which is not possible in many cases as it is multi factifactoral and environmental pollution is unavoidable

Rx Antihistamine eye drops like sodium Cromoglycate (Cromal Forte) Or Ketotifen (Ketorid) or Olopatadine hydrochloride (Pataday) to inhibit mast cell degranulation. To be used for a month before effect set in.

Rx  In severe cases- Prednisolone acetate 1% eye drops TDS X 10 Days, then taper the dose.

If no response

Corticosteroid eye drops for cases which do not respond to the  above drops.

Rx  Fluorometholone (FML) eye drops QDS) and taper in 15 days. If still not effective,

Rx Prednisolone acetate eye drops QDS for 15 days with tapering doses.

Rx  Loteprendnol etabonate (Lotepred /Loteflam) eye drops can be used upto  3 months with little or no rise in intraocular pressure as it is a corticosteroid with minimal side effects.

Diarrhea due to allergic Food

Due to allergy to Foods

Causes and Symptoms :

Diarrhea with or without abdominal distension, and pain in the abdomen can  occur in some children following ingestion of artificial milk, certain food additives or preservative and other foods mentioned under the heading of asthma. The symptom may be related to allergy or to some other mechanism. Some children with allergy to artificial milk (liquid as well as powder)  may also develop skin rashes, vomiting, and get bleeding from the intestines. Their lungs may also be affected. 

Treatment

Avoid the allergens. The doctor may prescribe an antihistamine.

Lifestyle

●    Protect yourself from dust and pollution as much as possible

●    In the morning wash your face and eyes with water, it cleanses the face, provides relaxation and also removes the dryness of the face.

●    In winter in Delhi when there is a lot of smog, and cold in weather no morning walks do stay Indoor.

●    Drinking warm water throughout the day in winters.

●    Wash the hands and legs as soon as one enters the house. Wash hands frequently

●    Footwear should be kept near the entrance. No outside footwear should go to the kitchen.

●    Daily oil massage before the bath to build immunity and improve circulation. Sesame oil is preferred.

●    A warm shower bath is advised which is effective in ridding the body of itching, dirt, tiredness, sweat, burning sensation.

●    Wear cotton, linen or khadi ( खादी, These cloths are warm in winter and cold in summer ) clothes, avoid synthetic fabric

●    Instead of chemical-based soap use herbal alternatives

●    Drink 3-4 litres of water daily to detoxify the system.

●    Eat easily digestible home cooked fresh food. Food should be warm

●    Install an exhaust fan in the kitchen.

●    Follow daily routine (Dinacharya, दिनचर्या ) and seasonal routine or (Ritu charya ऋतू चर्या ) for health, which make one healthy throughout the year.

●    Do not use chemical room sprays and chemical home cleaners.

●    Drink one cup of warm water before going to bed.

●    Stay relaxed, avoid anger, have a sound sleep.

●    Keep away from cold foods, if you are sneezing.
●     Choose an organic products.
●     Wash all fruits and vegetables as thoroughly as you can.
●    Peel Apples, Pears and Potatoes.

“Boost  your body immunity”

Exercise

●    Walking daily for half an hour.

●    Running, cycling or swimming are good exercises.

●    Daily exercise helps in clearing the increased Kapha.

Yoga

Surya Namaskar

A couple of Surya Namaskars pump the heart rate that is equivalent to brisk walking and running can be used as an alternative to morning/ evening walks in the times of smog. Early morning is the best time for Surya Namaskar. Surya Namaskar is a physical exercise where almost 97% of the muscle are switched on to active mode. They remain active, hours ahead during the day till you recharge them next morning

Ardhmatsyendrasana

●    Sit up with the legs stretched out straight in front of you, keeping the feet together and the spine erect.

●    Bend the left leg and place the heel of the left foot beside the right hip.

●    Take the right leg over the left knee.

●    Place the left hand on the right knee and the right hand behind you.

●    Twist the waist, shoulders and neck in this sequence to the right and look over the right shoulder.

●    Keep the spine erect

●    Repeat to the other side

Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand pose)

●    Lie down fixed on your back in the Shavasana– The Corpse Pose

●    Breathe in by your nostrils slowly and put your palms facing in downward direction flat on the floor. Holding the hips fixed on the floor slowly curve your knees and get them upward towards the abdomen through breathing out

●    Breathe in by the nostrils, pressing your hand in downward direction try to raise your body from the waistline upwardly away from the floor, curving the backbone backwards and unbending the arms, your hips should be on the floor

●    Breathe in, and then whilst breathing out, raise your legs directly upward perpendicular to the floor. You can support your hips with your hands making sure that your legs should be united, knees straight and toes pointed straight up

●    Keep your head straight, don’t turn it to any side.

The chin should be compressed against the chest.

Shavasana– The Corpse Pose

You lie down on your back and relax your body and mind. During the pose, you close your eyes breathe naturally and practice eliminating tension from the body. It relaxes all the muscle.

 “Keep your mind and bowel clean”

Pranayama

Bhastrika–Or (Deep breathing) Inhalation followed by exhalation.

Increases oxygen supply to all parts of the body, thus improving blood circulation.

Anulom - vilom  Place the thumb in your right nostril and your ring and little fingers by your left.

●    Inhale through the left nostril, closing the right with the thumb.

●    Exhale through the right nostril, closing the left with the ring and little fingers.

●    Reverse the process with another nostril.

Ujjayi Pranayama- Or (Hissing breath) This is the only pranayama which can be performed sitting, standing, lying down, walking or even working. The immune system, respiratory, circulatory-lymphatic, nervous, digestive and all other systems are toned up by this practice.

●    Ujjayi or The “loud breathing” consists of drawing air in through both nostrils with the glottis held partially closed.

●    The air passes through a narrow air passage in your throat, creating the sound made by your breath.

●    An effective therapy for Asthma attack.

Udgeeth Pranayama- Pronouncing ‘OUM’ (ओउम )while taking a deep breath.

                                                   

Meditation

●     It is essential to employ different methods of relaxation

●    By chanting Gayatri mantra concentrate on ajna आज्ञा chakra, which is present in between two eyebrows.

Mudra

Varuna Mudra

●    Formation: Join the tip of the small finger with the tip of the thumb.

●    Benefit: It is beneficial in removing impurities present in the blood.

Shankha Mudra

●    Formation: Place the thumb of the left hand at the base of the right thumb. This is the point of the thyroid gland in the palm Fold the fingers of the right hand covering the left thumb, join the index finger on the left hand with the thumb tip of the right hand. The other three fingers of the left hand are to be placed on the back of the right palm.

●    Benefit: The thumb which represents the element fire is covered by the fingers hence fire is subdued.

●    This Mudra relieves allergies, caused by dust and smoke, so throat becomes clean: also pacifies skin rashes.

 “Sugar is your worst enemy, as it  will strengthen fungus and destroy your immune system”

Diet

●    Diet of vegetables, fruits, soups and juices

●    Anti pitta diet is suggested. Plenty of salads, sprouts, bitter leaves and some astringents are recommended. Excessive consumption of tea coffee, oily and spicy food to be avoided.

●    Eat home cooked food. Bitter gourd or Karela to be taken frequently

●    Plain wheat chapatti to be eaten if no gluten allergy. Rice, corn, soy, jawar, potato, beans are gluten-free.

●    Cleanse with specific detoxification diet like lemon   juice, soups, buttermilk

●    Eat rice khichdi with a little cow’s ghee

●    Buttermilk with Cumin (jeera), ajwain black salt and ginger at lunchtime

●    Dried fruits raisins and figs are safe to consume

●    Keep to organic, untreated, unprocessed foods as far as possible.

●    Onions have a chemical called quercetin, which can reduce allergic reaction.

●    Berries are also good to fight against allergy

●    Beta-carotene like carrot intake may help too

●    Vitamin C  Citrus fruits such as Pineapples have bromelain, which is also anti-allergic. Others include kiwi, Amla, oranges, lemons etc. as they have natural antihistamines properties.

●    Omega 3 fatty acids such as flax seeds, walnuts and chia seeds as they reduce inflammation in the body.

●    Vegetable juices are good for pitta aggravated doshas.

●    Apples, tomatoes, parsley, peppers, cherries, green leafy vegetables, broccoli. Lettuce, legumes and berries as they prevent both the manufacture and release of histamine, as well as other allergic and inflammatory compounds.

●    Alkaline foods its liberal use is essential for those suffering from allergies

●    Eat cooling foods: cumin (jeera), fennel (saunf), coriander (dhania) and mint (pudina), cucumber and aloe vera juice.

●    Ghee is used internally as well as externally

“Water is the best detoxifier”

Avoid

●    Avoid exposure to dust, smoke and pollution

●    Avoid exposure to allergen, failing which wear a very fine mesh face mask

●    Avoid carpets, woolen , and wall hangings

●    Avoid fur pets like  cats, dogs

●    Avoid using fresh bed linen from the storage box. As it may contain mounds

●    Avoid wearing thick net type synthetic cloth which acts as irritant to the skin

●    Avoid artificial flavoring  and coloring and peanut butter

●    Avoid Clothes colored with synthetic dyes

●    Avoid wearing earrings made of nickel and copper

●    Avoid using contaminated water

●    Avoid staying in dirty clothes which have sweat in them

●    Avoid eating food in an unhygienic place

●    Avoid using belongings of a person suffering from disease

●    Do not consume any fermented food or food that contains yeast

●    Avoid new grains, new rice. horse gram, Chana, peas, rajma. urad, lentils, arbi,  brinjal.

●    Avoid the diet and lifestyle that is against the season

●    Avoid wearing tight clothes and eating junk foods

●    Avoid eatables like: egg, fish, tea, coffee, hot, spicy, sour, fried foods, curds, sweets, paneer, red meat, bakery foods, refined flour ( maida), preserved foods, carbonated drinks refrigerated foods and tinned foods.

●    Avoid exposure to cold air/ cold water/ rain/ AC and dust

●    Avoid taking cold bath after coming from hot sunny environment

●    Avoid using low-grade cosmetic products

●    Avoid taking medicines without doctor’s prescription

●    Do not use any creams or medicines given by others

●    Avoid packaged foods and fruit drinks

●    Do not take sour curd

●    Avoid heavy, processed, refined and fried foods.

●    Cut down the number of cheese children eat.

●    Keep yourselves covered so as to avoid exposure from sudden drop or change in temperature

●    Do not eat very spicy or oily food as they block the digestive system, delaying your recovery

●    Avoid tea, coffee, chocolate, cola drinks, alcohol, sugar, sweets, refined cereals.

●    Meat, fish, chicken, milk, cheese, butter

●    Smoked salted pickled foods

●    Chemical additives, preservatives and flavoring

●    Avoid sour foods and carbonated drinks

●    Avoid dairy products for 60 days

●    Overexposure to sun should be avoided

●    Avoid stale and reheated foods

●    Sleeping during daytime

●    Avoid mental exertion like anger, worries, anxiety etc.

“Eating citrus fruits to boost immunity”

Herbs

●    Bitter taste herbs are preferred.

●    Trikatu (Pippali, Black Pepper and Dry Ginger), Pippali, mulethi and tulsi these herbs help clean the lungs. Trikatu, in particular, removes toxins. Trikatu can be consumed with honey followed by a cup of hot water twice a day.

●    Kalmegh, turmeric root ginger, garlic, black pepper neem,  gokshura well known as a powerful immune stimulant.

●    Neem oil cools the skin and prevents infections.

●    Turmeric It helps heal the inflamed intestine.

●    Ginger, black pepper and lemon It improves liver function and promotes better digestion.

●    Cinnamon improves gut flora.

Herbs recommended as blood purifiers are as follows:

●    Licorice root It’s a perfect detoxifier. It eliminates the harmful substances from the respiratory tract. Licorice drink soothes the intestine.

●    Psyllium or Isabgol seed It stimulates the natural ability  of the body to eliminate the waste products and helps in eradication any toxins circulation in blood

●    Aloe vera orally good for allergy, helps in liver function and thus in detoxification. Drink Aloe Vera juice daily it detoxifies the intestine.

●    Garlic It helps to stimulate the lymphatic system to more efficiently get rid of waste material. Intake of three cloves of garlic (raw) once a day on a daily basis for a month purifies the bloodstream.

●    Manjistha Rubia cordifolia is probably the best blood purifying herb in Ayurveda

●    Acasia catachu / Khair / Kaththa : The tree finds its major application in the treatment of skin and respiratory problems more in particular of allergic origin.

  

 “Sunscreen application before stepping out”

Home remedies

Immune boosters:

●    Triphala Powder : Eat Its churana daily, it acts as immune booster It clears the micro channels in the body, builds immunity and banishes allergies, coughs, colds and fevers. These are Ayurvedic blood purifiers help to establish a Pitta balance in body

●    Giloy (Tinospora cardifolia) Take the fresh Stem, soak overnight in boiled water. In the morning squeeze the soaked stem into water filter and take it with honey twice a day.

●    Ashwagandha It can be taken with milk.

●    Tulsi It is a wonderful blood purifier and  a  good immune booster should be taken with water.

●    Chyavanprash  Two tablespoon in the morning, followed by a cup of warm milk.

●    Dab or Tender coconut can be taken in the morning or evening.

●    If your allergy is pitta- aggravated, regular doses of Triphala and Guduchi will help you

●    Drink tea made with natural antihistamines especially nettle leaf or ginger.

●    Multani Mitti (Bentonite) act as a great source of curing skin allergies. Mix some amount of Multani mitti with rose water and some camphor. It removes impurities without any side effects.
●     Neem It keeps you away from blood infections.

●    Drinking of horse gram soups dressed with onions, black pepper and minimum salt is very useful helps to strengthen body’s immune system.

●   Amla is the best rejuvenator.  Taking fresh Amla juice every day is a very good remedy to fight cold.

●    Ginger, honey and black pepper give immediate relief in sinusitis.

●    Decoction of drumstick leaves twice a day.

●    Use of 5 drops of castor oil in a little juice or water take on an empty stomach in the morning, is highly beneficial for allergies in intestinal tract, skin and nasal passages.

●    For allergic bronchitis take 2 grams to  fresh turmeric with honey twice a day. And Nirgundi leaves vapors.

●    The Pepper and turmeric works well for flu and cold 1:4 ratio, this can be used along with honey or warm water.

“Amla the best rejuvenator”

Prevention

THE BEST WAY TO AVOID ALLERGY IS AVOIDANCE; ONCE THE ALLERGEN IS IDENTIFIED, EXPOSURE TO IT MUST BE AVOIDED, AND INCREASE THE IMMUNITY OF THE BODY.

What measures should be adopted during seasonal changes for respiratory problems ?

To avoid worsening of any respiratory problems, the below measures can be adopted :

Avoid sudden change of temperature.

Avoid exposure to allergens such as dust, pollen, deodorants etc. Regularly vacuum cleaning surfaces such as mattresses, blankets, carpets etc can help.

Keep your self well hydrated.

Take vitamin C supplements  or eat fruits that are rich in vitamin C.

Regular intake of steam is helpful.

There is not one reason for having allergies, there can be several causes, and the first step in treating or preventing them is to take responsiblity for ourselves. Whenever we feel an allergy , it is neccessary to immediately examine the changes that have occured in our diet and lifestyle in the past few days. It is possible that  there is a high concentration of allergens in the new home you have entered or allergies may be possible due to the flowers of a plant in the house or its scent. People living in dusty areas are commonly found to be affected by dust allergies. In such cases, it is better to live in less dusty areas, rather than living in such places. You can also investigate the causes of food related allergies yourself. Improvements in lifestyle, cleaniness and caution can go a long way in dealing with this problem

●   Take care of humidity levels inside the room in winters. If using room heaters, do keep a bucket of water in one corner of the room to avoid dryness of the skin.

●    General health and the resistance should be built up by boosting immunity in the body.

●    Detoxification of the body to remain healthy by Panchkarma

●    Keeping fast in both the Navratras is a good practice to detoxify or observing Roza in Ramadan month.

●    Detox tea: Girnar detox tea taking once a day contains nil  calories.

●    Those suffering from respiratory ailments such as asthma and bronchitis should consult their physician and get their medication revised before the sudden change in weather.

●    Always know what triggers your asthma. Get your asthma fully under control during the winter season as the cold and dry air can trigger an asthma attack. Buy a peak flow meter, nebulizer, Spo2 monitor and MDI spacer.

●    Protect against epidermal irritation by keeping your skin hydrated with moisturizing Remedies and drinking 2-3 liters of water daily.

●    Moisturizer- To maintain a good skin, apply moisturizer within 5 minutes of taking bath so that the skin stays well hydrated. People over 40 should use it routinely.

●    According to Ayurveda follow Dinacharya and Ritucharya…. The seasons have a natural effect on tridosha and the strength of a person is disturbed when suitable diets and routines are not adopted according to the season.

●    There are two methods to detect disturbing foods:

A. The first method is the trial and error elimination diet.

Self-search should be carried out to ascertain any suspicious symptoms from foods. It is advisable to try and eliminate certain diet, excluding suspected foods for two weeks until the cause is detected.

Occasionally by changing the brand, you can find a substitute that does not upset you.

B. Another way to detect the cause of allergy is by “Pulse test”. Check your pulse before a meal. Then limiting that meal to one food only. Wait for half an hour after eating and take your pulse again. if there is increase in pulse above 80 then that food is allergic. 

●    For prevention Vitamin C known as bioflavonoids are recommended. They gradually strengthen cell permeability to help immunize  the body from various allergies, especially hay fever.

●    Vitamin B5 or pantothenic acid brings great relief to allergy sufferers.

●    Dry massage produces dry heat by friction and helps in pacifying Kapha.

●    Throws for your couch: A stylish element that can enhance the look of the living room and at the same time keep dirt particles away is a throw. As the dust particles tend to settle deep into your sofas and cushions that can lead to dust allergies. Thus throws will help you combat this.

●    Taking your shoes off  before entering the house.

●    The maximum amount of dust from outdoors easily gets settled on the fabrics of windows and door curtains, which is why washing them regularly is recommended.

●    Regular cleaning and maintaining surfaces.

●    Plants for purifying air: Money plant, rubber plant, fern, palm, piece lily.

●    Wearing an N 95 pollution control mask when you step outside may give you some protection.

●    Natural air purifiers: Lac, turmeric, ativisha, usire, musta, harenuka, ela, patra, tagara. kustha and Priyangu (all these are easily available in Indian raw drug stores) should be put on fire and fumigated. It purifies the air.

“Drinking 2-3 liters  of water daily prevents  epidermal irritation”

Treatment

Allopathic 

For Anaphylaxis : Inj Adrenaline Injection Epinephrine .5  ml

The development of allergies and its response in children is a dynamic process. Many children "outgrow"  their allergies. Also as the child grows the response to allergen can be  less severe and more easily managed by the relatively bigger body area.. Some allergies  usually specific to a limited number of allergens can now be treated by sensitizing the body i.e. exposing the body to minuscule amount of the allergen under supervision. This is so common in children though. But most of the symptoms can be controlled with the currently available self medications.

Some allergic reaction  can be severe and life threatening and would need immediate intervention as these reactions can effect the airways and make breathing very difficult

Some people are also very allergic to dust and pollution, so what can be done to prevent it? The answer lies  in neighborhood, city and government. At an individual level one could avoid exposure to both indoor and outdoor pollution. use air purifiers can reduce exposure within the house and may be a good option.

Anti Histamine :

Steroidal nasal Spray :
Anti-histamines and steroids are only  short term relievers and their constant intake may result in side effects.

●    Anti-allergic tablets or ointments. Antihistamines Tab Avil or Actifed or chlorpheniramine, Tab Cetrizine 10mg. Tab Allegra, tab Hydroxyzine 10 mg night before bedtime.

●    Steroids if acute symptoms, may be controlled by tab prednisolone 40 mg/ 24h dose according to the severity. Tab Betnesol (0.5 mg) four times in reducing doses.
●    Nasivion nasal decongestant : To get instant relief from blocked nose.

●    Vitamin E tab Evion it possess anti-allergic properties

●    Take unienzyme tablets to restore the gut flora balance

●    Steam inhalations with benzoin, Vick’s or benzoin inhalation

●    Surgery- Minor surgical procedure, help in some cases e.g. vidian neurectomy in vasomotor  rhinitis

●    Sub mucous diathermy
●    Lactose Intolerance : You can have coconut milk,almond milk or butter milk as replacement of dairy milk.

Dye Allergy

Any hair dye should be applied only after testing the dye at the back of ear.

Avoid hair dye in future

Wysolone 20 mg tab (Prednesolone)

It is a steroid. It is used to treat a wide variety of medical conditions such as severe allergic reactions

Tab Wysolone 40 mg stat After breakfast followed 20mg after dinner. on first day.

on second day Tab Wysolone 40 mg after breakfast.

On third day Tab Wysolone 40 mg after breakfast.

20 mg for 2 days

10 mg for 2 days

5mg for two days.

all other drugs will continue for a week.

Then taper off the dose of Steroid Tab Wysolone.

In severe cases Inj Decadron 2ml BD for three days

Ranitidine 180 mg

Belongs to a group of drugs called histamine-2 blockers. It works by reducing the amount of acid your stomach produces. Twice a day with Tab Wysolone

Tab Atarax 25 mg

Tablet is used to treat anxiety and helps to get relaxed before or after surgery. It is also used to treat symptoms of skin allergy like itching .Three times a day for three days.

Tab Allegra 180 mg 

It is an anti-allergy medicine used in the treatment of allergic symptoms such as runny nose, congestion or stuffiness, sneezing, itching, Three times a day.

Shampoo the hair twice a day...

Ayurveda

Cleansing Techniques: When mucus is excessive these kriyas or shat karmas should be practised. Emphasis on cleaning of the body for physical and mental health by these methods expelling the toxins by body’s natural route of elimination.

●    Kapalabhati Cleansing of nose, lungs and bronchial tube.

●    Shodhan Chikitsa Pacificator treatment where the doshas are eliminated out of the body, Panchakarma comes under this is:

Vaman Therapeutic vomiting

Virechan Therapeutic purgation

●    Udwarthanam (Powder massage/ dry massage) A body toning program, it is the application of herbal powder on the entire body, excluding face. It makes the skin supple and cures itching, rashes. Some of the herbs used are Triphala, trikatu, vidanga red millet, barley, and horse gram etc. Powder massage should be performed in reverse direction, (down to up) opposite to the hair follicles.

●    Applying herbal packs externally helps in dissolving local infection or purging it out.

●    Jal Neti is a practice that helps clear the sinuses. It is the cleaning of nasal passage with water.

●    Nasya (Nasal drops) Nasal instillation of oil. Anu taila or Shad bindu taila as nose drops to lubricate the nose and decrease allergic tendencies.

●    Or the application of 5 drops of ksheerabala oil as nasya around 7.30 a.m. in the morning for 14 days is very useful to stop sneezing.

●    Basti - Colon cleansing. Enema with medicated drugs.

●    Dhauti - Upper digestive tract cleaning.

●    Gandush - Keeping the til (sesame) oil in the mouth for few minutes cleanses the oral cavity.

●    Shamana Chikitsa - (Palliative treatment) These include internal medicines, diet and lifestyle modification. These are external treatments

●    Lepa- local application of herbs.

●    Abhyanga- Body massage using oils

●    Rasayana- or tonic to build immunity

●    Take internal medicine to remove vitiation of blood

●    Inhalation- of turmeric smoke helps in reducing congestion. A small piece of turmeric is smeared with ghee and burnt.

●    Aloe Vera gel locally

Unani

●    Eat Gulkand, a compound preparation from red rose petals and sugar , taken for a week.

●    Neem ointment, sandalwood cream, or coconut oil for local application

Naturopathy

●    Splashing the eyes 50 times with cold water in the morning

●    Fast on fruit juices, followed by a mono diet of vegetables, fruits such as carrots, grapes, apples for one week. After that one more food is added to the mono diet. A week later third fruit is added and so on.

●    After four weeks, the protein food is introduced, one at a time

●    Cleanse with a specific detoxification diet and regular enemas
*     For skin  allergies Neem leaves added to hot water, and after it is cooled down,  it can be used as refreshing bath water that reduces itchiness and sooths the skin. Neem leaves and buds taken orally are good for skin.

Homeopathy

Homeopathy as a safe and effective  healing medicine, treats skin allergies in a holistic way and increases immunity to curb further progression.

“Know your Allergen and stay safe"

https://madhuchhandacdmo.blogspot.com/2017/12/allergy.html

* Medicine as suggested above should only be taken under the consultation and supervision of registered medical practitioner.