Many people are aware that an allergic reaction is responsible, at least in part, for the asthmatic state of these people. Do you see the connection?

When a person is allergic to foods or inhalants, such as dust or chemicals, those allergens set off an allergic response that eventually results in an irritation of the lining and muscles in the lungs.

Most doctors are well aware that the allergic process will manifest itself to target several of our organs, be it the digestive tract, the skin, or the nervous system.

Therefore, it comes as no surprise that what we call gastritis may result, in part, from an allergic reaction targeted at the digestive tract, or that what we call arthritis may be an allergic reaction targeted at the joints.

The same is true of asthma. What we call an asthmatic attack may be an allergic reaction targeted at the lungs.

Do you know that there are lots of “hidden” allergies that are so hard to detect and control. It is the negative reaction to a given food that may not occur until several days after contact.

Moreover, these allergens can be found in both the foods we eat and in the environment. As a result, asthmatics must examine both their diet and their home and work environments for possible causes of their attacks.

Therefore, it is our body’s biochemistry which is the first suspect to our asthmatic allergic process.

There are different types of allergies. IgE-mediated allergies, allergies to common grasses, pollens, molds, and dander.

The IgE also known as Immunoglobin E allergy antibody was discovered in 1967. According to Dr Alfred Zamm, he mentioned that the body’s defense system mistakenly recognizes an allergen as an enemy, a foreign substance, as something that must be eliminated quickly.

He said, “The immune system starts churning out a special kind of antibody to neutralize or annihilate the invaders, just as though they were disease germs. Now the body is “sensitized,” primed for the next invasion. (If it doesn’t come, the antibodies diminish in number; that’s why the longer one can stay away from an offending substance, the better.)

Now the allergen particles reappear. Whenever an antigen meets its specific antibody, they lock together like two magnets. One effect is that the small blood vessels dilate; another is that some of the specialized mast cells to release histamine that circulates and settles all over the body, and those sues that are particularly sensitive react, swelling and stimulating surrounding nerves, causing itching, burning, redness, and all the uncomfortable symptoms associated with an allergic reaction.

If the reacting organ is the skin, its blood vessels and cells–now swollen, distorted, Broken down, and oozing their contents–appear as a rash. If it happens in the mucus lining of the nose, sinuses, or tracheobronchial tree, the glands produce surplus mucus, which the victim attempts to get rid of by coughing, sneezing, or nose blowing.”

You may be particularly sensitive to other substances but other antibodies are still poorly understood. Most food allergies are not IgE-mediated and attention is not paid to them in adults.

Do you know that other substances, to which you may be sensitive, such as chemical and automotive fumes, formaldehyde, perfumes, natural gas, and petrochemical products not mediated by this antibody, are also often not acknowledged by conventional allergists?

Some people with asthma know that they are chemically sensitive, especially if they have connected the onset of their asthma with the sensitivity. Whether these are “true” allergies or not, the outcome is exactly the same.

That’s why the question is to what you are allergic to, still continues to puzzle most asthmatics.

About the Author
Eddy K. Elton is the author of 17 Minutes Asthma and Allergy Secrets ebook. Drop by at Asthma Relieving Techniques for more details.

Skin allergies are the result of many different factors. It may be a pet, a particular food, or a reaction to medications. Skin allergies can be embarrassing as well as itchy and painful. While they can’t be eliminated, they can be treated. There are several types of skin allergies.

Dermatis is the inflammation of skin. It is generally a rash resulting from contact with metals, chemicals, rubber, plants, and pets. Symptoms of dermatis are redness, swelling, burning, stinging, itching, and blisters. These symptoms generally appear on the face and hands.

Prickly heat can result in a rash that appears for no apparent reason. It can be itchy, and generally goes a way in a few days. Some people do not even feel it, but other notice it. This is common in small children who take medication for seasonal allergies. Often, the back is the only area to break out.

Uritcaria settles in the middle of the skin. It is caused by eating a food you are allergic to or a side effect of taking a medication. The area often looks burned because it is light red on the outer edges, and very red in the middle.

Eczema is an inflammation of the skin. The skin becomes dry, itchy, and flaky. A red rash and blisters often appear. It affects the face, arms, elbows, and the back of the knees. Eczema may be hereditary, but it is not known. The symptoms generally begin in childhood. People with eczema often experience hay fever and asthma as well. Eczema is the hardest skin allergy to treat.

Hives are red and itchy blotches. There are 2 types of hives. Acute hives last up to 6 weeks. They are caused by food allergies, medications, bug bites, and signs of diseases. Chronic hives are not very common. The last indefinitely, on and off over long periods of time. The cause is not known. Some doctors believe them to be stress related.

Skin allergies can be embarrassing and painful. They are time consuming to treat. It is recommended that you see a dermatologist for any skin discomfort. They can treat it with over the counter products such as Benedryl, cortisone creams, and allergy shots.