The World Health Organization (WHO) has indicated that by 2050, approximately half of the world's population could experience some type of allergy. Currently, three out of ten people suffer from this condition, reacting to common allergens such as dust, peanuts, milk, or pet hair.
What are allergies?
An allergy is a response of the immune system to substances that, for most people, pose no danger, such as certain foods or elements in the environment.
These reactions can develop at any time in life, although they are more common in childhood.
One point to consider is that allergy sufferers often develop sensitivity to more than one allergen, further complicating the situation.
Food allergies: beyond intolerance
It's important not to confuse food allergies with food intolerances. While intolerances refer to difficulty digesting certain foods, a food allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies a food as a threat. This response, if not treated properly, can be dangerous.
How do food allergies affect the body?
Symptoms can be mild or severe and include:
- Tingling or itching in the mouth
- Hives or eczema
- Swelling of the lips, face, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or abdominal pain
- In severe cases, anaphylaxis may occur, requiring immediate medical attention.
Now, among the most frequent allergens are:
- Peanut: mainly affects adults and usually lasts a lifetime.
- Milk: common in children and can persist into adulthood.
- Egg: is usually overcome with time.
- Wheat: Unlike celiac disease, it is an immunological reaction to wheat proteins.
- Seafood: common in adults, with most allergic reactions occurring in adulthood.
It's important to know that to prevent reactions, you should perform sensitivity tests before applying new products, and if you have any questions, consult a healthcare professional.
You should also read product labels to identify allergenic ingredients and inform your your close circle about your allergies and the steps to take in case of an emergency.
How are allergies detected?
There are several tests to detect allergies, including:
- Blood test: measures the immune response to allergens.
- Skin tests: Small amounts of allergens are applied to the skin.
- Challenge tests: The allergen is introduced in small doses to observe the reaction.
Why are allergies increasing?
The increase in allergies is due to a combination of genetic factors, lifestyle changes, food processing, and early exposure to allergens.
This underscores the need for increased education and proper management to prevent serious complications.
Early diagnosis and proper management are essential to controlling allergies and avoiding emergencies. If you experience allergy symptoms, it's essential to see a specialist for proper treatment.
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