Millions of individuals throughout the world suffer from seasonal allergies; they experience sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes. Hence, there is frequent uncertainty and worry about whether these symptoms are an indication of a more serious underlying medical condition. This article contains detailed information on whether these symptoms are signs of a serious medical condition or merely seasonal allergy symptoms.
Seasonal allergies and the human body
Seasonal allergies tend to be mild to moderate at worst, but some patients may have underlying conditions that might make them more serious. If you are prone to allergies, you may not have have an allergic reaction the first time your body comes into contact with a particular allergen.
Upon contact, your nose lining will create an immune system protein called an antibody—more specifically, immunoglobulin E (IgE). The immune system memorizes this antibody in preparation for future encounters with the allergen. The antigen-presenting cells (APC) that surround the allergen draw the attention of lymphocytes, or white blood cells, which recognize it as a foreign substance.
Then, a subset of white blood cells called T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes begins to divide and conquer. They work consistently to help the body expel the invader allergen while other T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes focus on attacking. These complex actions cause the usual allergy symptoms you experience.
How to implement an allergy action plan
An allergen action plan refers to a course of treatment of a person that experiences an allergic reaction. Many healthcare professionals advise people to have an allergen action plan as it outlines a precise course of action to take in an emergency.
Children with allergies frequently have allergy action plans because they may be more vulnerable to injury from an allergic reaction since they may not be able to recognize their symptoms. There are different levels of allergies that call for various strategies. For instance, a person who just experiences mild responses will need a different approach than someone who requires an EpiPen.
Allergic reaction
If a person has a mild to moderate reaction to an allergen, the first step of the allergen action plan should be carried out. The first and most crucial thing to do is to remain beside the person experiencing an allergic reaction.
When someone is having a minor allergic response, administer antihistamines (if specified in their action plan.) In most cases, this will alleviate the signs of a minor allergic reaction in about 30 minutes (if no further treatment is necessary.)
Anaphylaxis reaction
An individual may have worsening symptoms and a potentially fatal reaction known as an anaphylaxis reaction. To make sure that the person recovers and gets the medical attention they require, it is crucial to be aware of the symptoms of this kind of reaction and to implement an action plan as soon as possible.
The first thing you should do if you think someone is experiencing anaphylaxis is to make them lie down with their legs lifted. If the person is having trouble breathing, they should stay seated and raise their legs. The second step of the allergy action plan is the adrenaline administration of an EpiPen.
The anaphylactic sufferer might not get better after administering the EpiPen, but it will stabilize their condition until emergency medical assistance arrives. You should also call an ambulance request and inform the operator that the person you are with is experiencing anaphylaxis and go into detail about the issue, including how severe the individual's symptoms are.
Patients who require immediate allergy treatment and follow-up care may think about going to an urgent care facility. There, medical professionals will administer the correct treatment plan that will treat the patient.
When patients need to get allergy symptom treatment right away they should consider visiting AFC Urgent Care Denver University Hills. Our convenient and local urgent care center is located at 2290 S Colorado Blvd in Denver, CO for daily access. We are open weekdays and weekends to treat any urgent care needs!
