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1. Severe allergies and anaphylaxis 2. Skin allergies 3. Respiratory allergies 4. Food allergies 5. Rubber/latex allergies 6. Drug allergies 7. Allergies to wasp and bee stings Not all reactions can be from an allergic reaction, they can be from the following 3 reaction types: An allergy – This is a reaction produced by the body's immune system when it encounters a normally harmless substance. A sensitivity – An exaggeration of the normal side effects produced by contact with a substance. An intolerance – Where the substance causes unpleasant symptoms (such as diarrhoea) for a variety of reasons but it does not involve the immune system. (Source: NHS Choices and Allergy UK). An allergic reaction can be anything from a runny nose and itchy eyes that is commonly associated with hay fever, to breathing problems that can be associated with severe allergic reactions, also known as anaphylaxis which can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. How to manage allergies after a diagnosis? There are many forms of treatments that can help, depending on the type of reaction and its effects. Anti-histamines – these can be brought without a prescription over the counter. When a member has a reaction, the immune system releases histamine which causes the allergy symptoms. Anti-histamines prevent the chain reaction of symptoms occurring and block the release of more histamine into the system. Emollients – are lotions and creams used for eczema and dry skin. Some may contain antibacterial chemicals to stop infection in broken skin from itching while others may contain a steroid to reduce inflammation. Emollients do not stop the underlying cause; they are used to soothe the symptoms and give you time to heal. Steroids – used for the treatment of allergies are corticosteroids which are similar to cortisol which is produced by the body. By helping to reduce inflammation, when used in inhalers they are inhaled into the lungs and reduce the swelling of the airways which is the underlying issue with asthma. Steroids play an important part in treating a range of conditions including allergies. Topical Application of Steroids – this is when the steroid is applied directly on to the affected area. By being so targeted it minimises the possible side effects of treatment. Systematic treatments – this is where the drug, sometimes steroids gets into all systems of the body. This treatment is good for severe allergic reactions but is usually only prescribed when it is absolutely necessary. Adrenaline (epinephrine) – is used as an emergency treatment for anaphylactic shock when high levels of histamine and other substances are released into the body by an allergic reaction and cause breathing difficulties and even loss of consciousness. Other treatments available might include: Antibiotics Cromoglicate Anti-leukotrienes Anti-IgE drugs and Calcineurin inhibitors Please note: This is information only. Please seek advice from your GP should you have any concerns. How can medical I.D. jewellery help someone with severe allergies? A medical I.D. bracelet or necklace is important to emergency and healthcare professionals because it enables quick identification of the members allergy and help treat them with the correct medication. Food allergy sufferers may carry an Epi-pen just in case they go into anaphylactic shock, which in severe cases can cause death. A medical I.D. bracelet or necklace would alert health professionals that the member uses an Epi-pen for sudden severe allergic reactions and the location of where it's kept. For more information visit our website.
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