It’s that time of year again. Trees are blooming, grass is sprouting from the ground, and allergies are making their return after the long, cold winter. Keep reading as Marla Ahlgrimm talks about seasonal and other allergies.
Q: Why do some people have allergic reactions to different stimuli?
Marla Ahlgrimm: The quick answer is that your body is trying to fight off what it considers a foreign invader. Once the substance, which could be anything from pollen to mold or pet dander, enters a sensitive person’s body, chemicals called histamines are triggered. Histamines can cause cold-like symptoms, or they can affect the skin with hives or eczema.Q: What are the most common types of allergic reactions?
Marla Ahlgrimm: Most people typically experience mild reactions, such as watery eyes, skin rash, stuffy nose, and itching. More severe allergy responses include dizziness, trouble breathing, swollen eyes, diarrhea, stomach pain, and heart palpitations. Although allergies can happen at any time, spring is prime allergen season, so now’s a great time to get acquainted with what you might expect.
Q: How many different types of allergic reactions are there?
Marla Ahlgrimm: Allergic reactions are classified into four separate types. Type 1 encompasses common allergens, like pollen. Type 2 allergies happen when you have a response to penicillin, antibiotics, or other medications; these can be serious. Type 3 includes a long-term reaction, which might result in everything from fever to joint damage. Type 4 consists of things like nickel or poison ivy, which result in delayed skin reactions.
Q: Can I treat allergies at home?
Marla Ahlgrimm: For the most part, yes. Seasonal allergies can often be treated with over-the-counter antihistamines. Keep in mind that you may have to try several different types before you find one that works. More serious reactions may warrant the need for an epinephrine pen and regular medical monitoring.
Marla Ahlgrimm has co-authored two ground-breaking books,