Sunday, June 15, 2008

The Top 5 Natural Allergy Cures

Medicine Saved My Life, But Herbs and Environmental Changes Cured Me Of Allergies

I love modern medicine. It saved my life many times when I had asthma. So I?m not here to knock medicine. I just believe (from my own experience) that despite incredible breakthroughs and heroics in medicine sometimes they simply fail to look for the cause. Such was my experience on my path of curing allergies and asthma from my body.

I was amazed that my doctors had no interest in finding out, or even hearing about what I had done to get rid of asthma. And I don't believe their disinterest was because it would threaten their occupation. I just think their training and conditioning was not about looking for a cure, but only in treatment.

Searching

At age 18 I gave up on the drugs and shots. I still took the drugs as needed, and used an inhaler when needed, but I quit seeing my allergist. I decided to see what Chirporactors and Nutritionists could possibly offer. This led to reading books on nutrition, and I tried all the following:

Herbs, cell salts, vitamins, minerals, apple cider vinegar, raw goats milk, protomorphogens (from animal parts), and a host of other things I took. That was in the day when Health Food stores were for wierdos.

After many failed herb, vitamin, and natural experiments While I felt healthier the allergies and asthma were still a part of my life. I decided to accelerate my search.

The following approach worked for me:

5 Steps To Getting Rid of Allergies

The way I rid myself of asthma and allergies involved 5 things:

#1 A clean Liver - The liver, when toxic, can overproduce histamines, causing a hyper-sensitive and over-reactive immune response. There are Liver herbs, and some juices, which can detox the liver of the toxins and additional histamines

#2 A clean diet - Keeping inflammation down by reducing sugars, starches and refined foods keeps the body from over-reacting to allergens and immune system threats.

#3 Avoidance - Avoiding Cats, Dogs, and Allergens while I took the oethr 4 steps also allowed my immunity to rebuild itself.

#4 A clean bedroom - allergy resistant sheets, pillowcases, and keeping my room free of dust mites, mold, and bacteria. This way my immune system would rest at night instead of working all night against the environment. By the way it's the dust mites excrement, not the dust mites themselves, that cause the allergic reactions when inhaled. Change your pillow to a synthetic (mites don't like it) and buy a new one every 9-12 months.

#5 A clean environment -By far the easiest step this meant finding an air purifier, one that kills viruses and bacteria (with UV), absorbs pollen (HEPA), picks up pollution (ion) and can kill mold and mildew (timed ozone is best) to allow the immune system to recover each night, reducing allergic responses.

Not really that tough when you take the steps above. Once your body and immunity is rebalanced you might find as I did that I was able to eat as I wish, withouitb any allergic response.

Mark Richardson is an author, and former Health Practitioner who researches cutting edge health products. His Video Website http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=markedwr2003 features FREE Video demonstrations on the newest in air purifier technology.

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Monday, May 19, 2008

Dealing With A Mold Allergy

Mold allergy is not nearly as common as you might have thought considering there are thousands of different molds. But out of those thousands about a dozen can cause an allergic reaction.

Molds and fungi grow in all kinds of environments and they really do nicely inside. Outside molds don?t really have a season that causes trouble. If you have asthma that is a result of a mold allergy the best thing you can do it so avoid the mold spores. Of course completely avoiding them is pretty difficult, especially air borne molds. Thankfully there are asthma medications that work well.

Wondering what the symptoms are for a mold allergy? They are the same as any other respiratory allergy. Sneezing, cough, runny or stuffy nose, postnasal drip, watery eyes, itchy eyes, itchy nose and throat, sinusitis, and skin rash and for some it causes asthma which has shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing.

A mold allergy is caused when you come into contact with the mold spores and your body thinks they are a foreign invader so it develops an antibody to fight it. Even after the exposure is over you body will continue to produce antibodies so they will remember this invader the next time contact occurs. The reaction causes your body to release histamines which are what cause your eyes to water and your nose to run.

Toxic black mold is the mold allergy that made the news awhile back because it caused serious lung disease and caused hundreds of homes to be condemned as unfit to live in. Black mold is not a medical term but rather the slang it was dubbed at the time. This greenish black mold develops after serious water damage has occurred and although it has been directly linked to severe mold allergy the scientists still haven?t been able to determine why.

The treatment for a mold allergy is the same as with any other allergy. There are several different types of medications both over the counter, prescription, and natural supplements that can help.

For an asthma type mold allergy inhaled corticosteroids can be used if you have symptoms more than twice a week your doctor will likely put you on a corticosteroid medication.

For some the mold allergy results in an instant asthma attach when exposed. Bronchodilators are quick to act bring relief from asthma attack symptoms almost instantly.

Antihistamines are used when the immune system over reacts to the mold allergy producing histamines. Histamines cause watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, and other symptoms. Claritin and Allegra are two common antihistamines that are used.

When a mold allergy causes mucus and sinus problems then using a decongestant can bring relief from those symptoms. Common decongestions include Claritin-D and Allegra-D with the D standing for decongestion. Often an antihistamine and decongestion are combined to get the best relief.

There are also nasal sprays, immunotherapy which is a series of shots, and natural supplements that can help boost the immune system and bring your body into balance. Some can even relieve your histamine symptoms.

If you have a mold allergy it is important to deal with the mold itself whenever possible and then choose the correct treatment for your situation. It always pays to try natural options first before restoring to chemical solutions.

Get all the latest information about Allergies from the only true source at http://www.1allergyinformation.com Be sure to check out our mold allergy pages.

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Friday, May 16, 2008

Allergy Drops - Another Treatment Option For Allergies

Allergies can interfere with even the most commonplace of daily events; for those who suffer from allergies, even leaving their house during certain times of year can prove nearly impossible. For sufferers, finding effective, long-lasting allergy relief can mean a significant difference in their life. And while many have found great success with oral medications and allergy shots, there is an alternative treatment option that comes with its own benefits ? allergy drops.

Allergies are the result of the body?s immune system malfunctioning. When the body is introduced to something that it considers a threat, it reacts accordingly in an effort to rid the body of the toxin. With allergies, the immune system reacts to otherwise benign substances as if they are a threat ? pollen, cat dander, nuts, or any other number of elements. To fight what it considers to be trespassers, the immune system releases the chemical histamine that results in the common symptoms of allergies ? runny nose, congestion, coughing, wheezing, watery and itchy eyes, etc. In many cases, avoiding the allergy trigger or combating the symptoms with over-the-counter or prescription medication can make a world of difference for the allergy sufferer. But for those who suffer more intense symptoms or are exposed to their allergens on a daily basis, allergy shots have been the effective treatment of choice. But research has shown that allergy drops can be just as effective ? and far more convenient ? than allergy shots.

Allergy shots are often given once a week and must be injected in a doctor?s office. Further, there is time associated with this visit as the patient is often injected with extremely diluted allergens. The patient must then wait ? often at least thirty minutes ? before being able to leave the doctor?s office as the doctor must first ensure that the patient is not having any negative reactions. This inconvenience of visiting the doctor - and the discomfort of the injection itself - often causes patients to shy away from pursuing the treatment.

With allergy drops there are no painful injections ? simply a drop put under the tongue. This procedure is something that the patient can do themselves at home; doctor visits are reduced to just a few times a year in order for the doctor to follow the progress of the patient. For children who suffer from allergies, the allergy drops can be enormously beneficial allowing them to receive the necessary treatment without having to get a shot once a week.

Allergy drops are but one alternative to the management of allergies on an ongoing basis. For allergy sufferers, they can make a world of difference in keeping symptoms at bay and maximizing comfort levels.

For easy to understand, in depth information about allergy drops visit our ezGuide 2 Allergy.

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Monday, May 12, 2008

Food Allergy Labels Easier to Understand

If you are concerned about food allergy it is good to know the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires all food manufacturers to list common food allergens on food labels. Even better is: Food manufacturers are required to list the common food allergens in simple terms that adults and older children can easily understand. These labeling requirements are to help us reduce the chance of an accidental allergic reaction to a food. These food label requirements were revised in January of 2006.

Where to look for common allergen list on the food labels: Look either in the ingredients list, after the list, or right next to it. Did you ever believe that ?nondairy? means there is no milk in a product in the case you are allergic to milk products. I sure would think this would be the case. Before the label guidelines were revised, the use of ?nondairy? was allowed even when the foods contained milk byproducts such as ?casein? (a milk-derived protein). With the new guidelines if a product contains milk byproducts (that you could be allergic to), the label will lists the term ?milk? in parenthesis after the term ?casein,? or whatever other milk byproduct used. Or, the label will simply state ?contains milk.? This is so much easier and informative especially for kids with food allergies to milk products who may be choosing their own snacks.

Food labels of course do not and cannot list every possible allergen, the food manufacturers are required to list the top eight that account for 90 percent of all documented food allergies. The list also represents foods most likely to cause a severe or life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). These include:

? Milk
? Eggs
? Peanuts
? Tree nuts (such as almonds, cashews, walnuts)
? Fish (such as bass, cod, flounder)
? Shellfish (such as crab, lobster, shrimp)
? Soy
? Wheat

Any domestic or imported packaged food regulated by the FDA is required to make the labeling changes.

Types of allergen included on the label are:

? Type of tree nut such as almond, walnut
? Type of crustacean shellfish such as crab or shrimp
? Any ingredient that contains a protein from the eight major food allergens
? Allergens found in flavorings, colorings or other additives

Foods that are not labeled:

? Fresh produce
? Fresh meat and certain highly refined oils
? Foods that may inadvertently come into contact with a food allergen during the growing, harvesting or manufacturing process are also exempt.

Also to our benefit is that the FDA is working to tighten regulations for manufacturers? use of the term ?gluten free? on food labels. Gluten occurs in grains such as wheat, barley and rye, and can cause a serious reaction (though not an allergic one) in people who have celiac disease, a digestive disorder. Many people are unsure about which foods contain gluten. The FDA is working to issue standards for what constitutes a gluten-free product by the year 2008.

The new guidelines are to help us avoid exposure to even small amounts of a food allergen. If you think you have a food allergy it is a good idea to see your doctor for testing. Without specific testing you will not know whether or how much or how little exposure might trigger a serious allergic reaction.

It is important to note also that not all people with food allergies are at significant risk when exposed to very small quantities of food. If you will work closely with your doctor you and he or she can develop a personalized plan to reduce your risk of exposure to foods you are allergic to.

In addition, the new food-labeling law helps you make safe choices; however, the law requires food allergens to be identified even in the smallest amounts. You might see ingredients such as soy lecithin used as a nonstick agent for baked goods or fish gelatin used in coloring for soup broth.

Source: Mayo Clinic

Disclaimer: The information in this article is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about specific medical concerns.

This article is FREE to publish with the resource box. Article written 2-2007.

Author: Connie Limon. Please visit our collection of Nutrition and Health articles at http://nutritionandhealthhub.com Articles are available for FREE reprint to your newsletter, website or blog. Please sign up for our weekly nutrition and health tips.

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Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Get The Facts On Allergy Medication

Allergy medications are everywhere ? oral antihistamines, nasal antihistamines, decongestants ? Maybe it?s time to get the facts on your allergy medication.

Allergy medication is available over the counter and it is prescribed widely by doctors all around the world. Pick up a magazine there?s ads, the television is full of ads ? these products are heavily marketed and choosing the one that?s going to work is an entirely different game.

There are four allergy medication categories ? nasal sprays, decongestants, nasal antihistamines, and oral antihistamines. Let?s have a look at all four categories.

Oral antihistamines are by far the most common allergy medication prescribed by doctors. The block the histamines which is the chemical that is responsible for most of your symptoms. They do not offer permanent relief but as an allergy medication they do provide relief for itching, sneezing, hives, and nasal drip. Antihistamines can cause drowsiness and make it difficult to concentrate. You can actually be given a DUI if you are driving and taking this medication. Some of the OTC antihistamines are Benadryl, Atarax, Dimetapp, Tavist, Chlor-Trimeton, and Claritin. In fact Benadryl should be in every medicine cabinet.

Nasal antihistamines are newer and available through prescription and are a good allergy medication for the right situations. They work for12 hours and are steroid free. It is believed because of inhalation the dosage absorbed is better. It cause drowsiness, headache, and post nasal drip.

Oral and nasal decongestants are another allergy medication choice that is commonly used for those that have runny noses, sinus issues, post nasal drip, fever, pollen, sneezing, and itching. They are available in both prescription and OTC and in pills, drops, sprays, and liquids. However the ingredient phenylpropanolamine which was found in older decongestants has been banned. Current decongestants include Sudafed, Triaminic, Entex, and Ornade. Decongestants can make you jittery, elevate your blood pressure, and make sleeping difficult. Sudafed should be in every medicine cabinet.

The last allergy medication we?ll look at is nasal sprays. The non-steroid formulas are considered very safe and work best if you started a few weeks before the allergy season. Steroid formulas are available through prescription and are more effective and include Flonase, Nasonex, and Beclovent. Side effects include cataracts, hypertension, headache, weight gain, and nasal ulcers.

But wait we?ve had a look at a variety of allergy medications but there are also several natural remedies and an allergy medication that contains no harsh chemicals is likely to make your body much happier.

Besides considering a natural allergy medication you might also consider giving your body?s immune system a boost with the right supplement. After all the cause of allergies is an immune system that is misfiring.

And that means that an allergy medication isn?t always the solution to the problem. Sure it will reduce the symptoms but it is doing nothing to actually get to the bottom of the problem.

Once you get the facts on allergy medication you are in a much better position to make educated choices that work for you, your type of allergy, and your person situation. Choose what?s right for you.

Get all the latest information about Allergies from the only true source at http://www.1allergyinformation.com Be sure to check out our Allergy Medication pages

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Monday, March 3, 2008

Allergy Relief Air Purifier Revealed

Many people suffer from some form of allergies. If you don't suffer, I'm sure you know of someone who does; whether it be a family member, neighbor or co-worker. Allergies can be very miserable and in some cases can turn into asthma which can be life threatening. For allergy sufferers, the air they breathe could be a vital cause to their problem. An allergy relief air purifier could be the solution to living a healthier life. With all the contaminants in the air today, is it even possible to breathe clean air anymore? This article will take a look at how and why an allergy relief air purifier could possibly change peoples lives.

Is My Home A Safe Place To Be

Many allergy sufferers think that the source of their problem is outdoors. They will often avoid the smell of freshly mowed lawns, flowers or perfumes. Did you know that most of the allergens people are exposed to, come from right in their own homes? Yes, their own homes. The place they think of as a safe haven. There are all kinds of particles being transported through the air in our homes. Dust and pollen are obvious if you look on a coffee table or end table. Often times you can see these results with the naked eye, but did you know that the bed in which you lay your head each and every night has all kinds of dust mites too? Just because we can't see these bugs, doesn't mean they aren't there. There are many times we confuse allergies with a cold. We often think that just because we are stuffed up and have a runny nose means we have a cold. It could be a sign that you have allergies. Our homes provide a more confined area in which dust and pollen thrive. Could owning an allergy relief air purifier help?

What Am I To Do

Many home owners today are investing in an allergy relief air purifier. These air purifiers, not only aid in relief for allergy sufferers, but can also provide asthma relief as well. They are designed to not only get rid of dust and pollen particles, but also eliminate germs and bacteria as well. Being in a more enclosed environment allows for germs to be passed on to one another much more easily. An air purifier can be installed in an individual room or it may be big enough to purify more than one room at a time. There are also larger models that can clean the air in your entire home.

With the wonderful technology of the internet, it is easy to find information on just about anything you want to know more about. Depending on your finances and needs, there is an allergy relief air purifier designed just for you. All you have to do is a little research, and you could be living in an environment of clean, fresh air, that could change your life.

For more information on Air Cleaners and Purifiers for your home or business try visiting http://air-cleaners-and-purifiers.com, a website that specializes in providing helpful tips, advice and Air Cleaners and Purifiers resources to include Allergy Relief Air Purifier information.

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Tuesday, February 12, 2008

Dealing With An Asthma Allergy

For someone suffering from asthma allergy, it is beneficial to have an idea of what exactly this condition entails, and ways you can prevent it from having a negative effect on your life. Depending on the person and what has caused the asthma, an asthma allergy can vary from a mild attack of asthma to a more severe attack of asthma. A severe attack of asthma is characterized by a difficulty breathing, with lack of oxygen in the lips and extremities.

Often the best way to treat an asthma allergy is to have a checkup by a trained medical professional such as a doctor. A doctor can run a series of tests to confirm if you have an allergy that causes asthma. Then the doctor can choose the best course for treatment.

The best type of medication for the treatment of an asthma allergy involves a substance, which is able to decrease the inflammation of the lining of the respiratory system. Some of these medications function by decreasing the production of other chemicals, which cause inflammation and narrowing of the lumen of the bronchi and bronchioles. It is important to seek help quickly so this type of medication can be administered quickly in the event of an acute asthma attack.

Even with medications for treating an asthma allergy, it is still a good idea to remember that prevention is always better than cure. Therefore, it is a good idea to stay away from any of the chemicals and substances, which cause you to have an asthma attack.

C Dietzig is co owner of asthmatreatment.first-results.com where they discuss asthma treatment and how to live a normal productive life with asthma.

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Tuesday, February 5, 2008

Holistic Approach to Dog Skin Allergy

The best way to deal with dog skin allergy is to approach the problem holistically. One dog allergy solution is to make sure your dog enjoys overall good health and has a strong immune system. This way, he'll less likely to react to allergies and develop uncomfortable symptoms.

The following are surefire ways to beat dog skin allergy:

1) Feed your dog some meat - gradually switch to a healthy diet made from high quality whole meats (not meat by-products). You can also try feeding him chicken, turkey, salmon, bison, rabbit, duck, or venison. Remember to rotate the meat.

2) Don't give your dog grains - and that means no corn, wheat and other grains. Try alternatives such as gluten-free brown rice, spelt, amaranth, quinoa, or kamut. These are available at health stores.

3) No preservatives - BHT, ethoxyquin, and potassium sorbate are common artificial additives that are toxic to your dog's health. Check your dog food's label if it consists of any of the above ingredients. If it does, buy other dog food. I use wellness for my dogs.

4) Give him supplements - Antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, and E as well as CoQ10 and selenium strengthens his immune system and helps prevent allergic reactions.

5) Use natural pest control - Adding garlic, Vitamin B1 or brewer's yeast to his diet helps repel fleas. Commercial flea and tick powders, shampoos, and collars are made with toxic chemicals that can irritate your dog's skin and overburden his immune system.

6) Keep his area clean - avoid using chemicals to clean his area and surroundings.

7) Avoid over-vaccinations - over-vaccination damages immunity and can lead to the development of allergies and other problems.

8) Use herbs - They can help the body rid itself of toxins, including those substances that cause allergic reactions such as burdock, alfalfa, red clover, dandelion , and spirulina.

9) Keep your dog clean - avoid cheap commercial shampoos and conditioners - they dry out your dog's hair and skin and even aggravate his allergies.

Dealing with dog skin allergy holistically takes time and commitment but it is the best dog allergy solution you can give to your dog.

Mary Rose Antonio is a physical therapist for 20 years now, a great believer in natural healing and a proud owner of two dogs. She is also the owner of http://www.ultimate-guide-to-dog-care.com. She invites you to learn more about taking care of your dog.

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Thursday, January 17, 2008

Decrease Your Cat Allergy Symptoms

If you start to sneeze, develop teary eyes, a runny nose and a headache every time you get near your cat you might be having an allergic reaction. Cat allergens from the saliva and dander have to be airborne in order for you to breathe them in and then have an allergic reaction. Since they are airborne, they can circulate everywhere in your house and on you. Have yourself tested so you can be sure your symptoms are coming from your cat. Allergists can perform a scratch test on your skin that can reveal 70-80 possible allergens. Allergies to a pet can begin at any age. Many people that have pet allergies may have allergies to other things like molds or pollen. Allergies also tend to run in families.

Most people do not want to give up their cat unless they absolutely have to. If the symptoms are mild, you probably will be able to keep your cat. There are ways to decrease the unpleasant symptoms of the allergy.

Start by not letting your cats sleep with you anymore. In fact, keep them out of your bedroom completely. Wash your bedclothes in a hot water temperature of 140-degrees. This will eliminate any allergens while you are trying to get your symptoms under control.

Try to keep your cat confined to one area of the house until you have been treated and feel better. This might be difficult but it may be the only solution if you have severe allergies. A room you don't use could be a good area to keep your cat in temporarily. Make sure you put toys, food and water in the room. A room with windows with wide panes may be a good idea so they can sit and look outside. Have someone without allergies take your cat outside for a while every day.

Cats should be bathed regularly to control the quantity of allergens that are released. A good micro fiber cloth will also work. You can rub down their coat to eliminate any obvious dander. There are shampoos for pets that work to reduce the airborne allergens. Always wash your hands after touching your cat. There are medications that can be taken such as antihistamines, eye drops and nasal sprays. Allergy desensitization shots are another treatment option. The shots make the person immune to the allergies. Small amounts of allergens are injected at first and than slowly increased. Make an appointment with a holistic healthcare practitioner if you want a more natural way to control your symptoms. Nutritional supplements and herbs may decrease an allergic response. Your cat should also eat a healthy diet with omega-3 fatty acids. Cats produce less dander if they are healthy.

If for some reason you don't respond to any of the treatments then you might have to give up your pet. Of course, you want them to have a good home. Ask family members or friends if they would take your cat. Rescue groups are also good to call to help you find a place where your pet will receive excellent care.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Allergies

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Sunday, November 4, 2007

To Protect Allergy Sufferers In Your Home

 To Protect Allergy Sufferers In Your Home

 by: News Canada

(NC)-For those who suffer from allergies the spring season comes much too soon. It's a time when allergy symptoms can be at their worst. Pollen levels rise during the spring as trees and flowers begin to bloom causing sneezing, runny nose, itchy watery eyes and nasal congestion.

Thankfully, there's no place like home to escape from these airborne allergens. Or is there? Dust, mold and other allergens can also make a home seem unbearable for allergy sufferers.

The good news is that there are ways to reduce these irritants and make your home a haven from outdoor pollen and mould spore attacks.

There are a number of preventative steps that the estimated one in five Canadians who suffer from allergies can take to reduce the number of allergens in their living spaces. The most effective and simple steps involve sanitizing your environment with a thorough cleaning.

If you don't want outdoor pollen, dust, dust mites and mould to be "at home" with you, here are a few suggestions:

  • In the bedroom, discourage dust mites by encasing mattresses, pillows and box springs in airtight or allergen-proof casings and/or regularly vacuum them. Sheets should be washed weekly in hot water to kill dust mites. Use comforters and pillows made of synthetic fiber and replace synthetic pillows every two or three years.

  • In the bathroom, the biggest problem may be mold. Wash the tile behind the tub, shower doors and around the sink with an anti-fungal cleaner. Replace vinyl shower curtain liners regularly.

  • Wash curtains, drapes, bedding and children's stuffed animals in hot water to eliminate dust.

  • Keep pets and their animal danders out of bedrooms.

  • Keep furnishings, household decorations and collections of knickknacks to a minimum. The fewer surfaces on which dust can collect, the easier your home will be to clean.

  • Get rid of house plants. They are a major source of mould and dust.

  • Remove carpets and replace them with tiled or wooden floors.

  • Have furnaces serviced, ducts cleaned and appropriate filters put on the furnace and the vents. Keep humidifiers and air conditioners clean.

For more information on coping with allergies contact 1-800-665-1507 or visit www.claritin.ca.

News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web.

News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial "fill" items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

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Monday, October 22, 2007

Drug allergy 101 - What You Absolutely Need to Know

 Introduction
Due to increase in the population that is having impaired immunity and also as there is an increasing pool of aged population because of the ever-lowering death rates, the incidence of allergies is on rise.

Definition
Drug allergy is an immunologically mediated reaction to a drug, which is quite different from its pharmacodynamic profile. It is entirely unrelated to its dosage. It is sometimes also called drug hypersensitivity.

Types
There are many different types of drug allergies but broadly there are two different types: a) Humoral
It is further subdivided into type I, type II and type III based on the type of cells involved.
b) Cellular


Diagnosis
Most commonly the signs and symptoms are redness, itching, rashes, swelling and runny nose. These symptoms occur from within few minutes to few hours. Whatever the symptoms, it is best to consult your doctor as soon as possible because these may be signs of a severe and even fatal reaction. One of the severe reactions is anaphylaxis. It is not necessary that if a person did not get allergy from a drug previously, he wont get it this time. Usually drugs from same group should not be taken if a reaction has occurred from a drug. The drugs most commonly implicated in drug allergies are penicillin, cephalosporins, sulfa drugs , anti convulsants, aspirin and insulin.

Management
a) Treatment
The first and foremost thing is to consult your doctor and if possible allergy specialist for he would be able to determine two things: first, the allergen and secondly the cause of the allergy. Finally when there has already been a reaction, then to treat this, there are certain medicines such as Elidel, Zyrtec, Flonase and Allegra.
Elidel helps in itching and rashes. It is a new and safe drug, which comes in a cream form.
Zyrtec is another safe drug. Because of its less likelihood of drowsiness as compared to the other members of its group, it has received good patient compliance. Besides being used for seasonal rhinitis it is also used for runny nose in drug allergy.
Flonase is another drug which although being steroidal is non-habit forming. It relieves the patients of stuffy nose because of congestion. It can also be used in children.
Allegra has similar use as zyrtec although it is even less sedating.
b) Prevention
It is best said that to manage in the best way any drug allergy is to stay away from the allergen that is the drug.

Further research
There are certain drugs such as xolair, which are still in their incipient stage, and not much of data is available


Anju bala writes about Drug allergy topics. Learn more at http://www.allergydruginfo.com.

 

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