Allergies arise from a complex interplay of:

genetic predisposition

Higher risk with a family history of the disease.

Environmental factors

Pollen levels, air pollution, diet, hygiene hypothesis.

Immune system dysfunction

Formation of IgE antibodies → release of histamine → itching, redness, swelling.

Awareness

The body "learns" to react to an allergen – often without immediate symptoms.

Pollen allergy (hay fever)

• itchy eyes
• runny/blocked nose
• sneezing fits

House dust mite allergy

• Complaints mainly at night or in the morning
• Cough, blocked nose

Pet hair allergy

• Symptoms after contact with cats, dogs, etc.

Food allergies

• Swelling in the mouth
• Abdominal pain
• skin rashes

Contact allergies

• Eczema after skin contact (e.g., nickel, perfumes, cosmetics)

Insect venom allergies

• local swelling
• Rare: severe allergic reactions

Allergies can cause a wide variety of symptoms:

• itchy or watery eyes
• runny or blocked nose
• Breathing difficulties
• Hives (urticaria)
• Eczema & Redness
• Swelling of the lips or eyes
• Gastrointestinal problems

In rare cases, an anaphylactic reaction can occur, a medical emergency.

Precise allergy diagnostics are crucial:

Prick test (skin test)

Allergens are applied to the skin and lightly scratched → reaction indicates sensitization.

epicutaneous test

For the investigation of contact allergies (e.g., nickel, fragrances).

Blood tests

Detection of specific IgE antibodies.

Provocation tests (rare)

Testing under controlled conditions.

INFOBOX :
Thorough diagnostics are the basis of every successful allergy treatment.

The therapy depends on the type and severity of the allergy:

1. Antihistamines

• Relieves itching, sneezing & redness
• modern preparations do not cause drowsiness

2. Anti-inflammatory nasal and eye drops

Effective for seasonal ailments.

3. Cortisone preparations

For short-term use in cases of severe reactions or eczema.

4. Treatment of accompanying skin diseases

e.g. atopic dermatitis, urticaria, contact eczema.

✔ allergen-proof bedding for dust mite allergies
✔ Regular ventilation (during low-pollen periods)
✔ Sunglasses during pollen season
✔ smooth floor coverings instead of carpet
✔ Pets out of the bedroom
✔ mild, fragrance-free care products
✔ Consistently avoid food triggers

The only causal therapy that can weaken or completely eliminate an allergy in the long term.

Suitable for:

• Pollen allergies
• House dust mite allergy
• Insect venom allergies

Effect :

• The immune system is "retrained".
• fewer complaints
• long-term tolerance to the allergen

Possibilities :

• Subcutaneous (injection therapy)
• Sublingual (drops/tablets)

INFOBOX :
Immunotherapy not only improves current symptoms, but can also prevent the development of new allergies.

Are allergies curable?
Only immunotherapy can have a long-term effect on allergies; other therapies only alleviate symptoms.

Can an allergy develop suddenly?
Yes, allergies can develop at any age.

Does cortisone help?
Yes, in the short term, but not as a long-term therapy.

Can hay fever develop into asthma?
Yes, untreated allergies can increase the risk.

Are allergy tests painful?
Only minimal, comparable to a scratch.

Allergies are common, but thanks to modern diagnostics and therapy, they are now very treatable. With individualized treatment plans, targeted trigger control, and, if necessary, immunotherapy, quality of life can often be significantly and sustainably improved.