Atopic Allergy

Millions of people suffer from allergies in the United States, according to the University of Maryland. People can be allergic to household products such as dust or pet dander, outdoor allergens such as pollen or certain types of food. People who suffer from allergies commonly experience throat irritation, eye irritation and nasal complications. Most allergy sufferers use over-the-counter drugs and practice avoiding allergens to treat their symptoms.

Definition

• According to health.com, atopic is a general term that refers to a person who is predisposed to allergic reactions. Kidshealth.org says that a person with an atopic condition is overly sensitive to common allergens, such as pollen, mold, dust mites, dander and some foods. An atopic allergy condition is typically genetic and passed down the family line.

Cause

• A person with an atopic allergy has a heightened immune system. This means that the immune system accidentally recognizes safe substances as harmful. The body attempts to fight off the substance by releasing certain types of chemicals called histamine. Histamine in the body can cause a variety of reactions, such as skin rashes, nasal congestion and eye irritation.

Reactions

• A person with an atopic allergy can develop different reactions that can transpire independently or at the same time, according to MERCK. Asthma is a common reaction for a person with an atopic allergy. Asthma can cause chest pain, difficulty breathing and wheezing. In some cases, an asthma attack can be a serious condition and could lead to death. Other reactions are the swelling of the lips, throat or eyes, a runny nose, watery eyes and rashes. A common atopic reaction is eczema, a rash that is itchy, puffy and oozes.

Prevention

• To prevent an atopic allergy attack, use synthetic pillows, wash your bedding often, replace all carpet with hard flooring, maintain a mold-free and cockroach-free home, keep rooms at a safe humidity, use HEPA filters and vacuums, stay away from foods that cause a reaction, avoid pets and maintain all cloth furniture, according to MERCK.

Treatment

• MERCK states that a person suffering from an atopic condition can be treated by removing allergy triggers, using antihistamines and/or prescribed corticosteroids and allergy shots (immunotherapy). Removing or avoiding allergens is the best method of treatment for a person with an atopic allergy condition. Using over-the-counter antihistamines on a daily basis can reduce allergic reaction symptoms. Talk to your doctor if corticosteroids are right for you. Allergy shots are administered over a few years by giving you a small dose of the allergen increased over time, causing your body to create a tolerance.