Allergies are caused by the body’s immune system over responding to a stimulus. This stimulus triggers the body to react because the body assumes that it is foreign and harmful. The body creates a cascade of reactions such as swelling, rash, itch and redness. In most individuals the body is able to recognise that the stimuli is not harmful hence not over reacting.

The best treatment for allergies will depend on the severity and type of allergy. Most mild to moderate forms of allergy cases can be controlled with effective corticosteroids, sensitive skin care ranges, antihistamines, washes, medications and replacement of items that cause the trigger. Moderate to severe cases need specialist assessment from a dermatologist or immunologist via referral from a general practitioner.

There are a wide variety of causes of allergies and the best treatment for the allergy is to prevent yourself being exposure to these allergens. This can be very difficult in most cases. Sometimes it may be appropriate to take an antihistamine preventatively if you know that you may be exposed to the trigger causing the allergy. This may prevent the overload of histamine produced from your body and creating such allergic reactions.

Allergic Rhinitis

Depending on the type of allergy and the severity will determine what treatment may be necessary. The following information will detail a basic regime for allergic rhinitis.
Commonly patients who have allergic rhinitis will experience sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, itchiness and red eyes. It can happen seasonally or all year round. Treatment should begin with a corticosteroid nasal spray, antihistamine and saline rinse.

Corticosteroid Nasal Spray (Nasonex or Flixonase):
One or two sprays into each nostril daily then reduce to ONE spray into each nostril once symptoms are controlled. Corticosteroids are safe and effective in the control of allergic rhinitis. It needs to be used daily on an ongoing basis to be effective. It may take 3-4 weeks to see any benefits of the spray

• Side effects: Dry nostril, nose bleeds, irritation

Antihistamines (Alzene or Xergic): Take ONE tablet if and when needed if there is not enough relief from using the corticosteroid nasal spray. If you know that you are going to be exposed to an allergen, take a tablet before being exposed as the antihistamine will be more effective. Anti-histamines are effective in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. They will treat itch, watery runny nose, sneezing and red eyes. The newer class of antihistamines are non-drowsy and are great for using during the day. The older class such as Polaramine and Phenergan are much more effective but can cause significant sedation.

• Alzene and Xergic are well tolerated and are rare to have side effects. Alzene may cause drowsiness.
• Side effects of Polaramine and Phenergan: sedation, dry mouth, dizziness, incoordination

Saline Rinse Kit:
This kit contains sachets of isotonic minerals that need to be mixed with warm water in the sinus rinse bottle. Tilt the head over a basin and gently squeeze the bottle into the nostril to rinse the sinuses. This is very effective and should be done daily for the first 2-3 weeks and then done twice weekly as maintenance.

• Side effects: possible irritation

Dust Mite Covers

A major consideration with most severe allergies are dust mite protective bedding. The unique cotton fabric resists contamination from dust mite allergens which are a common trigger for most patients. The majority of patients who seek specialist consultation will end up being recommended this product.

Hives and allergic rashes

Compounded menthol cream:
Is effective in relieving the itchy, irritating rashes or hives on the body. It will cool down the skin. Keep the cream in the fridge for added relief.

• Side effects: stinging, dryness

Antihistamines (Alzene or Xergic): Take ONE tablet if and when needed. If you know that you are going to be exposed to an allergen, take a tablet before being exposed as the antihistamine will be more effective. Anti-histamines are effective in the treatment of hives and welts. The newer class of antihistamines are non-drowsy and are great for using during the day. The older class such as Polaramine and Phenergan are much more effective but can cause significant sedation.

• Alzene and Xergic are well tolerated and are rare to have side effects. Alzene may cause drowsiness.
• Side effects of Polaramine and Phenergan: sedation, dry mouth, dizziness, incoordination

The choice of make up is an important step in preventing allergic reactions. Using the incorrect make up may be irritating your skin. This can lead to dermatitis and inflammation of the skin.

There are different grades of mineral make up. Make sure you look for a high grade mineral make up that conducts testing and is free from preservatives, talcs, fragrances, heavy metals. Premium grade mineral make up allows the skin to breathe naturally and prevents your skin from having reactions to the additives within the cosmetic.

High grade mineral make up has a low risk of having chemical and photo-sensitivities. As an added bonus, look for a mineral make up that have a SPF factor, so that in the long term you are protecting yourself from UV damage. Do your research as not all mineral make up is made the same. A high grade mineral make up will be backed by research and testing.