User talk:Hbalmerca

Allergic Reactions

The prevalence of allergic reactions is growing across Canada and the United States. While there are many theories as to why this is true, there does not seem to be a definitive answer as of yet.

Extensive medical research has been conducted allowing doctors to learn more about the physiological responses of the body when exposed to allergens. Allergens trigger a complex chain of events resulting in a myriad of different symptoms that can range from a rash to asthma, and from anaphylaxis to death.

One theory works on the premise that the sheer number of chemical additives within foods has lead to hypersensitivities to foods. Yet another theory takes aim at the concept that allergic responses are hereditary and therefore are part of the genetic coding.

Regardless of the theory one prescribes to, the end results remain the same, there is an increase in the number of reactions which is endangering the quality of life. When one must carefully plan an outing to avoid exposure to deadly allergens it can become psychologically taxing and might even make the thought of going out seem all but impossible.

There is a need for education of the public regarding the incidence of allergic reactions, their potential severity and the how to respond to reactions when they occur. It is not enough for allergy sufferers to try to protect themselves from reactions. The more severe the allergy the more likely it will be that an individual must enlist the help of others to ensure their safety.

The most common allergies that require immediate medical attention seem to belong to a group of foods that were very common in homes during the 1940s to 1990s, namely peanuts and tree nuts. In the coastal regions there was also the added concern of shellfish. Due to the severity of these food allergies, there are restaurants that will not serve dishes with nuts or shellfish; while other warn that their food is not safe for consumption by those with allergies. Most frequently companies have begun to protect clientele by indicating that they are unable to guarantee trace elements of these allergens are not contained within their products.

What should you do if you think you have an allergy? The best rule of thumb is to ensure that you speak with your doctor if you believe you may be suffering from an allergy. Early detection can help make one’s life easier through avoiding triggers, having antihistamines on hand and even carrying an epinephrine (epi auto-injector) to act as a means of prolonging life for the time it takes one to get to the hospital for medical treatment.