What are allergies?
An allergy is a hyper-sensitivity to allergy triggers called allergens. Common airborne allergens include pollen from trees, grasses and other flowering plants, molds, animal dander, dust, dust mites, smoke and even perfumes. Common food allergens include eggs, milk, nuts, strawberries, and various types of fish and seafood. At school, markers, chalk dust and craft supplies can trigger problems for a child with allergies.

The allergic reaction involves the body’s immune system. When exposed for the first time to an allergen, the immune cells make antibodies that go into action the next time it is exposed to the same substance. The antibodies recognize this foreign invader and tell the immune cells to release chemicals – one of which is called histamine – that actually cause allergy symptoms.

What is allergic rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis (allergy symptoms that affect the nose, the eyes and the throat) is a common inflammation of the nasal membrane caused by an allergic reaction that affects between 10% and 25% of the world’s population. Allergic rhinitis is the most common type of allergy. The most bothersome symptom is congestion. Typical symptoms include sneezing, stuffy and/or runny nose, itchy and/or watery eyes, and sometimes cough.

There are two types of allergic rhinitis. Seasonal allergic rhinitis or “hay fever” is fairly easy to recognize because it occurs at the same time each year. Year-round allergic rhinitis affects people year-round because they are sensitive to allergens (house dust, animals and molds) that are in their environment all the time.

What are the symptoms?
Allergies can have a big impact on daily activities. People with allergies may often be constantly fatigued, irritable, restless or just not feeling well and they may have difficulty concentrating, which can affect performance and even lead to absence from work or school.

Many allergy sufferers have to give away pets, avoid foods they enjoy or curtail their outdoor activities. For some, a raw, dripping nose causes annoyance and embarrassment, and for others, dark circles under the eyes due to severe sinus congestion can be unpleasant.

What are the treatments?
Antihistamines are drugs that block the action of histamine released by the immune system. They are effective at reducing sneezing, runny nose and itchy and watery eyes. Sometimes, a newer medication or a decongestant to reduce nasal congestion and stuffiness may be needed.

There are two types of antihistamines. First generation antihistamines have been available for many years, and it is recommended that they are taken up to 4 times daily. Unfortunately, these antihistamines also have a number of side effects, such as drowsiness or a dry mouth. People who take sedating antihistamines at work may be less productive than average and at greater risk of injuries.

Most of second generation antihistamines, such as loratadine and desloratadine, are non-drowsy, which is important to stay alert while driving, working or performing special tasks. These antihistamines can relieve allergy symptoms for up to 24 hours, so they only have to be taken once a day.

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