What are the most common triggers for allergy attacks?
February 21, 2024 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Petra Netz
Dear allergist,
my name is Elvira Krause and I have been suffering from recurring allergy attacks for some time. These are mainly characterized by sneezing, watery eyes, skin rashes, and breathing difficulties. The symptoms often occur particularly strongly during the pollen season, but also when in contact with certain foods or pets.
I am very concerned, as the attacks greatly affect my quality of life and I do not know exactly what triggers them. I have already undergone some tests with a dermatologist to test for specific allergens, but so far no concrete cause has been found.
Could you please explain to me what the most common triggers for allergy attacks are? Are there specific pollens, foods, or other substances to which many people react allergically? Are there possible solutions or treatment methods to alleviate the symptoms or avoid the allergens?
Thank you in advance for your support, and I look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Elvira Krause
Dear Mrs. Krause,
Thank you for your message and your trust. I am sorry to hear that you are suffering from recurring allergy attacks and that they are affecting your quality of life. Allergies can indeed be very burdensome, but there are ways to manage and alleviate the symptoms.
The most common triggers for allergy attacks are usually pollen, dust mites, mold, animal hair, and certain foods. Allergy symptoms often worsen during pollen season, as the pollen concentration in the air is higher. Some of the most common pollen allergens include grasses, birch trees, ragweed, and ragweed. Food allergies can be attributed to a variety of foods, such as nuts, dairy products, eggs, fish, or seafood.
To identify your allergens, allergy tests such as skin tests or blood tests are recommended. These tests can help determine which allergens you react to and which triggers are responsible for your symptoms. In some cases, a provocation test may also be necessary to identify specific allergens.
Treatment methods for allergies typically include avoiding allergens, taking anti-allergic medications such as antihistamines or corticosteroid nasal sprays to alleviate symptoms, and in some cases, allergen immunotherapy (also known as "allergy vaccination"). This therapy aims to gradually desensitize the immune system to the allergen to prevent an overreaction.
It is important that you work with an allergist to find the best possible treatment for your allergies. Together, we can take appropriate measures to control your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
I hope this information is helpful to you and I am available for any further questions.
Sincerely,
Petra Netz, Allergist
