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ALLERGY OCCURS when a person’s immune system reacts to substances in the environment that are harmless to most people. These substances are known as allergens and are found in dust mites, pets, pollen, insects, ticks, moulds, foods, and drugs (medications). There are many causes of allergy, and symptoms vary from mild to severe.
A hypersensitivity reaction is an overreaction of your immune system to something that would not usually cause an immune response. This leads to allergy symptoms. There are different types of hypersensitivity reactions, that usually develop within a few minutes of exposure to an allergen but can occasionally develop over a few hours. They are mostly mild, but can sometimes develop into a severe reaction called anaphylaxis.
Hypersensitivity reactions can also occur when something triggers your body’s own immune system to attack parts of your body. This can cause autoimmune diseases that range from mild to severe. Other responses are also called ‘delayed hypersensitivity reactions’, that can occur 12 to 72 hours after exposure to the allergen.
HARMLESS OR NON-THREATENING
According to Dr Kimberly Cousins, American Board-Certified physician with the ABIM and ABAI licensed to see both pediatric and adult patients with allergic and immunologic disease, while an allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to harmless substances, hypersensitivity is an excessive or inappropriate immune response to a substance that is typically harmless or non-threatening.
“Hypersensitivity in reactions are classified into four different categories: Immediate Hypersensitivity (Type I), Cytotoxic Hypersensitivity (Type II), Immune Complex-Mediated Hypersensitivity (Type III) and Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity (Type IV)”, Dr Cousins said.
“Examples of the different types of hypersensitivities include allergic rhinitis, asthma, anaphylaxis, hemolytic anemia, transfusion reactions, autoimmune diseases, systemic lupus erythematosus, serum sickness, contact dermatitis, tuberculin skin test reaction, and chronic transplant rejection.
Dr Cousins was a presenter at the sixth annual continuing education seminar, Mpowered by MDS – Gone To The Dogs Pharmacy Conference. That explored the complexities of allergies in both human and animal health. Her clinical interests include allergic rhinitis, asthma, common variable immunodeficiency, drug allergies, food allergies and nasal polyps.
The session, which attracted a large audience of medical professionals and animal lovers, explored critical topics including the distinction between allergy and hypersensitivity, the differences between allergens and mucogenic substances, and the latest insights into allergy etiology and management.
VALUABLE KNOWLEDGE
Dr Cousins also presented an overview on the physiological mechanisms behind allergies and their progression, emphasising the importance of understanding the immune system’s response to allergens. She explained the key differences between allergic reactions and hypersensitivity, providing attendees with valuable knowledge to better differentiate between these often-confused terms.
A significant portion of the presentation was also dedicated to the causes and triggers of severe allergic reactions, particularly focusing on anaphylactic shock. Dr Cousins outlined the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, including rapid onset of symptoms including difficulty breathing, swelling, and gastrointestinal distress, underscoring the importance of rapid intervention.
“Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that is rapid in onset and may cause death. Typically, the onset is within 30 minutes, rarely ever after. The Quiescent period may occur followed by progression 60-120 mins (Biphasic), however if it is severe, it may recur three to six hours after. It is very rare that it will prolong for days,” Dr Cousins said.
“Patients at risk for anaphylaxis should be prescribed auto-injectable epinephrine (Epi Pen). Individuals can test for allergies using a number of methods, including diagnostic testing, in-vitro testing, oral food challenge and penicillin skin testing,” she added.
Another focal point of the session was allergic rhinitis, a common condition affecting both humans and animals. Dr Cousins provided a detailed analysis of the various symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion, and highlighted diagnostic methods and management strategies.
She discussed the latest treatment options available, emphasising both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches to managing the condition, and stressing the importance of preventative measures.
“We are witnessing a rise in allergy-related conditions across both human and veterinary populations, and understanding these complexities is essential for effective treatment and management,” Dr. Cousins said.
“By expanding awareness of allergy-related disorders, especially in the context of pets, we are empowering both professionals and pet owners to make more informed decisions in managing these often-debilitating conditions,” she added.
COGNITIVE AND PSYCHIATRIC IMPACTS
Rhinitis is often accompanied by symptoms involving the eyes, ears and throat. It is found to affect 30 to 60 million people annually within the United States, with 10 to 30 per cent of those affected being adults, while a whopping 40 per cent being children. Rhinitis has been proven to affect sleeping patterns, reduces work productivity and lost school days, and it has cognitive and psychiatric impacts.
“Rhinitis can be seasonal and perennial, caused by tree, grass and weed pollen in the spring and summer time; as well as dustmites, moulds, animal allergens,or certain occupational allergens. It can be treated by the use of nasal sprays, oral antihistamines, oral steroids, and oral or nasal decongestants,” Dr Cousins said.
The ‘Gone to the Dogs’ conference featured other speakers discussing topics such as pet nutrition and pharmacology led by Vanessa Benjamin-Chatri, and pet therapy led by Joseph Brown and Lorenzo Letts.
English (US) ·