About 20% to 30% of the total Indian population suffers from at least one allergic disease. When a person is exposed to a certain allergen, they will develop an immune response called an allergic reaction. It causes a hypersensitivity reaction. These substances are known as allergens and can be anything from plants, mites, pets, and molds to medicines and certain foods. The cold weather and dry air can cause a lot of discomfort for those who suffer from allergies. Some common allergy symptoms are:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy eyes and nose
- Coughing
- Sinus congestion or pressure
- Postnasal drip, which is the fluid that drains from the sinuses into the throat
People who suffer from seasonal allergies are often most troubled by them in the winter. When it gets cold, winter allergies raise their heads. People often only think of allergies as mild problems, but they can become harmful instantly. For instance, when someone develops a tough skin rash or starts sneezing, many don't immediately associate this with an allergic reaction - but in many cases, this does indicate an allergy. However, it needs attention. Some of the common indoor allergens that can trigger an allergic reaction are dust, mites, and mold. Allergens like pet dander or pollen may also trigger these allergies.
Allergens are higher during staying indoors in the winter, as dust from carpets, furniture, toys, pollen from plants, insects such as mites and cockroaches, and pets are more likely to carry dust and pollen. Allergy-prone people are most likely to suffer from conditions such as asthma, seasonal rhinitis, migraine headaches, nasal polyps, and urticaria.
The best way to prevent allergies is to avoid the allergens that are causing symptoms. Rather than trying alternative treatments to help relieve seasonal allergies, it is better to look for the right medications available to treat them.
Allergy Tests:
Allergy skin tests are commonly used to diagnose allergic conditions such as:
- Allergic rhinitis
- Asthma
- Eczema
- Food allergies
- Sinus congestion or pressure
- Postnasal drip, which is the fluid that drains from the sinuses into the throat
Allergy blood tests provide accurate test results. You may choose to go for an allergy blood test if you can't have allergy skin testing. ImmunoCAP tests detect the allergen-specific IgE antibodies that appear in response to the body being exposed or sensitized to a particular allergen, which is only present in those already predisposed. It helps in -
- Identifying the offending allergen
- Confirms a clinical suspicion of allergic sensitization
- Rule out allergic sensitization
- Determine patients that are appropriate for further testing
- Monitor levels of IgE antibodies for prognosis
Considering the comfort of our patients, Unipath lab provides home sample collection. The technician will collect the sample and will deliver the result through hard copy or soft copy. To book the test, please contact us at +91(79) 49006800 or visit www.unipath.in