Allergies are one of the most common health problems in the modern world, affecting millions of people with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to potentially serious reactions. Understanding the causes, types of allergies, diagnostic methods, and available treatments is essential to managing this condition.

Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to substances that are normally harmless to most people, called allergens. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, animal dander, foods, medications, and insect bites.
This reaction causes the body to release histamine and other chemicals, resulting in allergy symptoms that can range from mild to severe. Allergies can develop at any age and, in some cases, can appear suddenly even in people who have never been sensitive to them before.

Types of Allergies

Allergies can be classified based on the type of allergen involved. The most common include:

1. 1. 1. Respiratory allergies
         They mainly affect the respiratory system and are caused by substances in the air, such as pollen, dust mites, pet hair and moulds. The most common symptoms include sneezing, allergic rhinitis, nasal congestion, itchy eyes and, in more severe cases, allergic asthma.
      2. Food allergies
         These occur when the immune system reacts to certain foods, such as milk, eggs, nuts, fish, fruit and cereals containing gluten. Symptoms can range from hives and swelling to more serious reactions such as anaphylactic shock, which requires immediate medical attention.
      3. Skin allergies
         These manifest themselves with symptoms on the skin, in the form of hives, eczema or contact dermatitis. They can be caused by cosmetic products, metals (such as nickel), chemicals or even some foods.
      4. Drug allergies
         Some medications, includingantibiotics (such as penicillin) and anti-inflammatories, can cause allergic reactions ranging from mild skin rashes to more severe respiratory symptoms.
      5. Insect sting allergies
         Stings from bees, wasps, and other insects can trigger allergic reactions in some people, with symptoms ranging from redness and swellingto anaphylactic shockin cases of allergic reactions severe.

Allergy Symptoms
Allergy symptoms depend on the type of allergen and the severity of the reaction. The most common symptoms include:

• Respiratory symptoms: sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, cough, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.
• Skin symptoms: redness, itching, swelling, rash and hives.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps.
• Severe symptoms: In rare cases, an allergic reaction can progress to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition characterized by a rapid drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention, with prompt administration of epinephrine and emergency medical care.

How to Find Out What You’re Allergic to: Allergy Tests
To accurately identify the cause of your allergy, there are several allergy tests that can help your doctor properly diagnose the condition.

1. Skin tests (prick tests): The most common allergy test involves administering small amounts of allergens to the skin (usually on the forearm) to see if local skin reactions such as redness or bumps develop. This test is quick and painless and provides immediate results.
2. Blood tests: These are used to measure the level of IgE antibodies, which are indicative of the presence of an allergy. This test is especially useful when skin tests are not practical or when a food or drug allergy is suspected.
3. Provocation tests: In some cases, under close medical supervision, the patient may be exposed to a small amount of the suspected allergen to see if there is a reaction. This test is only performed in appropriate health care facilities, where emergencies can be handled.

Allergy Treatments
Allergy treatment varies depending on the severity of the symptoms and the type of allergen involved. The main treatment options include:

• Antihistamines: These are among the most widely used drugs for controlling allergic reactions, as they block the action of histamine, the substance responsible for the symptoms. They are available in different formulations, such as tablets, nasal sprays and eye drops.
• Decongestants: Essential for reducing nasal congestion and improving breathing, they are administered in the form of nasal sprays or tablets.
• Corticosteroids: Essential in cases of more intense or chronic allergic reactions, they help reduce inflammation and swelling. They can be administered orally, topically or by inhalation.
• Specific immunotherapy (anti-allergy vaccine): represents a long-term solution for some allergies, such as those to pollen, dust mites or insect bites. This treatment consists of the gradual and controlled administration of increasing doses of the allergen, with the aim of “re-educating” the immune system to tolerate it without triggering an allergic reaction. The therapy can be administered through subcutaneous injections or sublingual tablets and requires specialist monitoring. Immunotherapy is particularly indicated in cases where allergies significantly compromise the quality of life or when symptomatic drugs are not sufficient to control the disorders. In the long term, this treatment can reduce sensitivity to allergens, decreasing the need for drugs and offering a stable improvement in symptoms. Its duration generally varies from 3 to 5 years, and the benefits can persist even after the conclusion of the therapeutic cycle.
• Adrenaline (epinephrine): essential for the treatment of severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis. In these cases, prompt administration by injection is necessary, often with an adrenaline autoinjector, which patients at risk should always have with them for emergencies.

The most appropriate treatment is established by the allergist based on the type and severity of the allergic reaction, with the aim of improving the patient’s quality of life and preventing any complications.

Conclusions
Allergies are very common conditions that can compromise the quality of life, but thanks to advances in diagnostics and treatments, it is possible to manage them effectively.

The MiniHospital “Sandro Pertini” offers a complete specialist service for the diagnosis and treatment of allergies, with a team of experts ready to guide you towards the solution best suited to your needs.
If you suspect you suffer from an allergy, book an allergy visit at our center to receive an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.