The Chemistry of Allergies

The Chemistry of Allergies
By Kui Kariuki

An allergy is characterized as an immune reaction to the presence of certain substances in one's body. Allergies occur when the immune system mistakes a harmless substance for a pathogen. The immuniglobin responsible for allergies is the IgE immuniglobin. Humans are not born with IgE antibodies in their body. The IgE develops 10 days after the first exposure to allergens. Therefore, it takes repeated exposure to an allergen, to develop an allergy. Allergies are often not formed upon first exposure.

Have you ever wondered why people have specific allergies? This is because IgE immuniglobins have a single protein structure and a set of molecules that all have a slightly different structure. The IgE, for example that reacts with pollen, is not the same IgE that will react with dust. People who have allergic reactions, also have more IgE present in their bodies than the average, non-allergy containing person. For example: people with hay fever have about 14 times as much IgE as those who do not.

There are four basic ways that allergens can enter human bodies: inhaling, touching, ingestion or by injection. There are also two basic types of allergic reactions known as: immediate or delayed. In a delayed allergic reaction, symptoms usually appear about 4 hours, to a few days after exposure to an allergen. In an immediate reaction, symptoms usually appear only minutes after exposure.

The chemical that is associated with the symptoms of allergy such as itching or swelling, is called Histamine. Histamine is the main chemical involved in allergies. Histamine is formed from the breakdown of Histine, which is an amino acid. Histamine causes many things that lead to the symptoms experienced during an allergic reaction. Histamine, for example, can cause contraction or swelling of certain muscles, or stimulate the production of tears or saliva. It can also cause blood vessels to become dilated, which leads to swelling. The most severe reaction relating to histamine is known as anaphylactic shock. This occurs when an allergy causes a significant drop in blood pressure, and can result in death.

There are chemical treatments that are used to treat allergies. Some of these treatments include: steroids and antihistamines. Antihistamines are the most commonly distributed chemical treatment for allergies. Antihistamines simply block histamines from certain sites on cells, which prevents the allergic reaction caused by histamines from occurring. There are very many antihistamine medications that affect people in different ways. That is why it is best to consult a doctor about the one best suited to your specific body type and allergy. Steroids work to relieve swelling, itching and redness that occurs as a result of an allergic reaction. Therefore, steroids are often used on allergy symptoms such as hives or eczema.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Kui_Kariuki/2201600
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Chemistry-of-Allergies&id=9425359

Read More

How to Protect Yourself From Allergies

How to Protect Yourself From Allergies
By Eleni Zervou

Allergy free home

Modern living conditions are the main cause for allergy increase. People tend to spend more time indoors due to their lifestyle. Yes, we leave in cleaner homes but do we live in a cleaner environment?

Keep rooms dry

Use an exhaust fan in bathrooms, laundry rooms after every use to reduce mold. Keep a dehumidifier in the basement and remember to clean and empty it as it collects all the moisture. Check frequently the areas where moisture and mold develops, under the sinks, leaky faucets or pipes, even your fish tank. Once a week wipe dry around the sink, bathtub and toilet, use a plastic shower curtain that can be washed as often as needed. Keep the bathroom door open or open slightly a window. Rooms must be kept dry and Do not overwater your indoor plants.

Pets

It is not your cat or dog you are allergic to, but to proteins found in the animal's fur, saliva dander and urine. So keep your loving pet away from your bedroom or even better outdoors if that is possible. Have your pet groomed everyday preferably outside. Use a damp pet brush or comb to trap dander.

Furniture

Be careful of what you bring into the house. Non-washable curtains, upholstered furniture and wall-to-wall carpeting are all collectors of dust mites and mold. You may want to consider hardwood floors or tiles as they do not collect dander, a washable curtain or shades or just keep your windows bare.

Clutter and collectibles

Books, newspapers all household items attract dust. To avoid allergens in your home, dust surfaces as often as needed. Recycle newspapers, magazines, cans and plastics once a week. If you need to store any items use plastic bins or bags.

Children's room

Soft toys accumulate dust mites more than you can possibly imagine. You cannot see them but they are there. Since children love them or having them in their room not to mention on their bed, you should buy stuffed toys that can be machine-washed and pave in the dryer.

Bedrooms

Tiny bugs nestle in your mattress and pillows, dust mites, thrive on humid atmosphere. So, use dust proof casing for your pillows and mattress, microfiber ones are preferred. Wash your sheets once a week in high temperature and place them in the dryer. Avoid fluffing your pillows and bed covers.

Kitchen area

Check your fridge for moisture, wipe the door clean with a damp cloth and occasionally check the drip pans, make sure they are dry to avoid mildew.

To reduce moisture install an exhaust fan over the stove for the cooking fumes.

Vacuuming

Vacuuming, dusting or sweeping stir up dust mites and it takes some time before they settle. You certainly do not want to breathe them. Use a vacuum cleaner with HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air filter) and remember to change it when necessary depending on its use.

Protect yourself and family from allergies. Keep your home clean, dry, and well ventilated.

For an Advanced Total Home Cleaning System try Sirena Vacuum Cleaner Designed For Pet Owners And Allergy Sufferers

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Eleni_Zervou/2280857
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Protect-Yourself-From-Allergies&id=9494260

Read More