Escuche esta historia
--:--
3:42
Dust allergy? Know the symptoms
Allergy is a very common disease, usually manifested in atopic pathologies such as atopic dermatitis, asthma and allergic rhinitis.
In turn, it is very common in pediatric and adult ages. So are you allergic to dust? Know what the symptoms are.
What is allergy, and what is atopy?
In simple terms, allergy is an immune response that is triggered by a hypersensitivity to an allergen.
At the same time, an allergen is understood as any substance that induces an immune response, that is, it is an antigen.
In addition, allergy comprises two pathophysiological stages, the first is due to sensitization to that allergen and the second is the response generated by this exposure.
Now, what is atopy? Atopy is what is known daily as an allergy. Basically, it is the first sensitization reaction to the allergen.
Technically, atopy is a rapid and immediate immune reaction, takes about 20 minutes and is directed by a specific antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE).
Why does allergy develop?
Allergic diseases develop in susceptible people, mainly due to a genetic component, environmental factors, that is, prolonged exposure to the allergen.
In addition to this, an allergy can develop due to the abusive administration of antibiotics, especially at an early age. Other aspects that can contribute to the development of allergy are.
Being a passive smoker
An improper diet
Family heritage
In relation to family inheritance, the risk of allergy increases if one of the parents has atopy. The probability is 50%.
How does allergy occur?
As discussed above, allergy develops in two stages. The sensitization phase and the triggered response phase. The latter comprises a primary and a late reaction.
During sensitization, exposure to the allergen, in this case dust, will stimulate the formation of a specific IgE for that allergen.
With the passage of time and prolonged exposure, the synthesis of this IgE-type antibody is favored.
Next, the early reaction phase consists of the release of all the substances that intervene in the picture, mainly histamine and leukotrienes.
Finally, the late reaction phase manifests itself hours after contact with the allergen.
What are the symptoms of a dust allergy?
Nasal congestion
Cough
Sneezing
Post nasal drip
Itch
Irritated eyes
It should be noted that these symptoms can be mild, although it can manifest itself severely.
How are allergies diagnosed?
One of the key links in the diagnosis is reviewing the family history. Likewise, it is important to identify if the symptoms are seasonal.
Also, the intervention of a specialist in the area, an allergist, may be necessary.
Dust allergy treatment
In general, the first measure that has to be implemented is to decrease the exposure to the allergen, since with repeated exposures symptoms are triggered.
Pharmacologically, antihistamines (antiallergics), corticosteroids, nasal decongestants, among others, are used.
Precautionary measures
Pharmacological treatment is important, but if you do not comply with these measures, you will not be able to control your allergy to dust.
Wear a mask to prevent you from inhaling the dust while cleaning.
Constantly clean the surface of the furniture using a damp cloth, this way you do not raise dust.
Put an airtight liner on your mattresses.
Do not expose yourself to humid spaces.
