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Inhaled allergens: how to recognize and control them
Inhaled allergens — are microscopic particles that enter the human body during breathing. In sensitive individuals, they can cause allergic reactions, including rhinitis, conjunctivitis, cough, and bronchial asthma. Knowing the sources of such allergens and diagnostic methods helps reduce the risk of worsening symptoms.
Main types of inhalant allergens
There are several common groups of inhalant allergens:
Pollen allergens. Pollen from trees (birch, alder), grasses (timothy, feather grass), and weeds (ragweed) is one of the most common causes of seasonal allergies.
House dust. Contains house dust mites, which are strong allergens.
Mildew. Spores of fungi Aspergillus, Cladosporium, etc. can cause severe reactions.
Animal hair and epidermis. It is not the fur itself that causes an allergic reaction, but the proteins in the saliva, urine, and skin flakes of pets.
Latex and chemicals. They are less common, but cause symptoms in professionally sensitive individuals.
Symptoms of reactions to inhaled allergens
Depending on individual sensitivity, the patient may experience:
prolonged runny nose without fever;
itchy nose, frequent sneezing;
tearing, redness of the eyes;
difficulty breathing, especially at night;
wheezing when inhaling, dry cough.
Methods for diagnosing inhalant allergy
Assessment of an allergic reaction requires laboratory and applied methods:
| Method | The essence of the study | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Skin prick tests | Applying microdoses of allergen to the skin | Quick result (20 min) |
| ELISA blood test | Detection of specific IgE | Does not depend on skin condition |
| Immunoblotting | Detailed decoding of up to 20 allergens | High accuracy |
| Provocative tests | Controlled exposure to allergen | Performed only in a hospital setting |
Tips for patients with suspected allergies
Avoid walking in windy weather during pollen season.
Regularly ventilate and humidify the room.
Install filters in air conditioners or use air purifiers.
Use hypoallergenic bedding and change bed linens regularly.
Consult an allergist for a correct diagnosis, and do not self-medicate.
Allergy treatment and control
Therapy is based on a combination of several approaches:
Elimination of the allergen. The most effective method, although not always possible (e.g., completely avoiding pollen).
Antihistamines. Relieves the main symptoms.
Inhaled corticosteroids. Used for asthma or severe rhinitis.
Specific immunotherapy (SIT). The only method that affects the cause of allergies, not just the symptoms.
Treatment selection should be individualized after a complete examination.
