Allergies are hypersensitive immune responses triggered when the body's immune system overreacts to non-harmful environmental substances (allergens) by producing IgE antibodies and releasing histamine from mast cells. Comprehensive diagnostic assessment and relief protocols are offered by Dr. Sai Sekhar Pyla in Muralinagar, Visakhapatnam.
Types of Allergic Conditions
- Allergic Rhinitis ("Hay Fever"): Seasonal or perennial inflammation of nasal mucosa triggered by pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander.
- Cutaneous Allergies: Urticaria (hives), angioedema (facial/lip swelling), contact dermatitis, and atopic eczema.
- Food & Drug Hypersensitivity: Acute allergic reactions to peanuts, shellfish, milk, penicillin, or NSAIDs.
- Allergic Asthma: Airway bronchospasm and wheezing triggered by inhaled environmental allergens.
Symptoms
- Frequent sneezing, clear watery nasal discharge, and nasal congestion.
- Itchy red eyes (allergic conjunctivitis), throat irritation, and persistent dry cough.
- Pruritic raised skin wheals (hives) or painful subcutaneous swelling (angioedema).
- Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhea) in food allergies.
- Anaphylaxis (Severe Medical Emergency): Sudden throat tightness, difficulty breathing, dizziness, rapid drop in BP, and collapse.
Diagnostic Evaluation
- Serum Total IgE & Specific IgE Tests: Measures systemic allergic antibody levels.
- Skin Prick Testing (SPT): Identifies specific environmental or dietary allergen sensitivity.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates peripheral blood eosinophilia.
Treatment & Management Protocol
- Second-Generation Antihistamines: Non-drowsy oral H1 blockers (Cetirizine, Levocetirizine, Fexofenadine, Bilastine).
- Intranasal Corticosteroid Sprays: Fluticasone or Mometasone for persistent allergic rhinitis.
- Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists: Montelukast for combined rhinitis and allergic asthma.
- Allergen Avoidance Counseling: Dust mite covers, HEPA air filtration, and dietary elimination.
