Allergies in Adolescents

Allergies are aberrant immune system responses to substances that are typically safe for the majority of people. When a person has an allergic reaction to something, their immune system misinterprets the item and interprets it as harmful to the body. Allergens are chemicals that trigger allergic reactions. Allergens include, but are not limited to, dust, food, plant pollen, and medications. In order to defend itself against these allergens, the body generates antibodies. Histamine is one of the compounds that can mix with the bloodstream thanks to the antibodies that cause specific cells to be present in the system. The effects of this chemical then spread to the nose, eyes, skin, lungs, and digestive system, causing allergic reaction symptoms. Future exposure to the same chemicals causes the antibodies to respond in the same way, resulting in an allergic reaction every time the person is exposed to the same allergen.

From minor symptoms like a runny nose to more serious ones like breathing difficulties, allergic reactions can affect anyone. Teenagers with asthma frequently experience an allergic reaction to colds, which is another kind of allergen. Some allergies cause a variety of symptoms. Rarely, severe allergic reactions called "anaphylaxis" result in symptoms such as difficulty breathing, trouble swallowing, swelling of the tongue, lips, and neck, as well as disorientation. Although other reactions take up to four hours to manifest, this allergic reaction happens as soon as the body is exposed to an allergen, such as peanuts.

 

Although there are several causes of allergies, one of them may be inherited, which does not necessarily indicate that children will inherit their parents' allergies. Food, airborne particles, insect bites and stings, medications, chemicals, and other things are some of the typical allergens. Food allergies commonly develop in newborns and disappear as the child gets older. Milk and dairy products, wheat, soy, eggs, peanuts, and seafood are on the list of foods that cause food allergies. Some people have allergies to certain bug stings and bites. The venom in the bite is what actually causes a reaction, which in some teenagers can be as dangerous as anaphylaxis. Airborne particles, commonly referred to as environmental allergens, can cause allergies in some teenagers. Of all the allergies, they are also the most prevalent. Dust mites, animal dander, mold spores, grass pollen, trees, and ragweed are a few examples of these allergens. Additionally, some teenagers have an allergy to some antibiotics. Chemicals are another common allergy; some of the chemicals included in laundry detergents or cosmetics can result in itchy rashes.

Allergists typically handle allergy issues. They could inquire about the allergy's symptoms and its genetic nature. Depending on the type of allergy, they may also recommend specific diagnostic tests like blood or skin tests. The easiest strategy to treat allergies is to fully stay away from the things that trigger them. However, there are several drugs and injections that can be used to treat allergies.

One can avoid allergies by doing specific things, such as avoiding foods with even the tiniest quantity of peanuts and those with food allergies to certain foods. Additionally, stay away from cosmetics that contain skin-allergic ingredients. By reserving specific locations for pets and keeping them away from bedrooms, one can also minimize airborne allergies. Rugs and carpets should occasionally be replaced. Keep as few items that collect dust as possible. Additionally, keep the house and your room clean on a regular basis.