What Are the Types of Allergies?

There can be various relationships between allergies and lung diseases. Especially, asthma is a condition where allergic reactions cause inflammation and narrowing of the airways, so allergies and asthma are often seen together. Exposure to allergens can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms.
Additionally, allergic reactions can sometimes cause inflammation and narrowing of the airways in the lungs, which is known as a specific condition called allergic bronchitis. This condition arises as inflammation of the respiratory tract and as an allergic response to allergens.
Among the most commonly observed conditions related to allergy in relation to lung diseases are asthma, allergic rhinitis (hay fever), and allergic bronchitis. Therefore, evaluations such as allergy tests and lung function tests can be conducted in individuals with respiratory symptoms associated with allergic reactions, and appropriate treatment plans can be established.
In addition, it is known that allergy patients who smoke are at a higher risk of developing COPD.

What Happens if Allergies are Left Untreated? When Should Allergies Be Treated?

If a person has symptoms of allergy, it should definitely be treated. Because in the case of allergy, there is tissue damage, a reaction. A compromised immune system due to excessive reaction poses a risk for other infections. Secondly, especially in patients with untreated allergic rhinitis or allergic asthma, risks such as deterioration in sleep quality, increased susceptibility to pneumonia, worsening of asthma treatment, and increased risk of attacks also increase. 
Especially in the elderly age group, since the immune system is already weaker, we anticipate that pneumonia will be more severe. In these patients, since untreated allergies will also have a negative effect on the immune system, treatment becomes even more important in the adult or elderly group. Because in a group, nasal congestion, disruptions in sleep quality due to postnasal drip impair the quality of life of patients..

How Is Allergy Treated? 

Today, including the elderly, we can achieve very successful results in 80% of patients with standard first-line treatments for allergies. Depending on the patient's condition, we can adjust their treatments with step-wise therapy. 
There are various medications available to relieve allergy symptoms. Medications such as antihistamines, nasal sprays, eye drops, and decongestants can be effective in controlling symptoms. Immunotherapy, which is an effective treatment option for reducing allergy symptoms, aims to increase the body's tolerance to allergens. This treatment involves administering small doses of allergens at regular intervals. Over time, the body may show less reaction to allergens. Additionally, one of the most important steps is to avoid allergens that cause allergic reactions. For example, someone with pollen allergies should spend less time outdoors during periods of high pollen levels. Similarly, avoiding allergens as much as possible in work and living spaces can also be beneficial. 

What Should People with Allergies Pay Attention to?

•    Allergens should be avoided as much as possible. For example, those with pollen allergies or asthma should avoid going out, if possible, during the hours of high pollen levels, around 10 in the morning and 4 in the afternoon, or should wear a mask and sunglasses when going outside. 
•    When ventilating the house, attention should be paid to these hours as well. 
•    Instead of parking their cars in the shade under trees, people should park in open areas away from pollen, and the air conditioner filters of vehicles should be regularly checked and replaced. 
•    During pollen allergy season, especially after being outdoors, clothes should be changed upon returning home, and hands and face should be washed to remove pollen. 
•    Laundry should be dried indoors, preferably in a dryer, rather than outside on the balcony. 
•    To reduce allergen levels at home, dusting should be done regularly, preferably without using carpets; if used, carpets with minimal pile that are easy to wash should be preferred. Beddings should be washed weekly. Additionally, anti-allergenic bedding sets and pillowcases can be used for those allergic to dust mites. 
•    Those allergic to pets should limit contact with pets or choose breeds with low allergen levels when acquiring pets. Additionally, replace carpets and fabrics in the house with materials that can easily clean pet hair.
•    Improve indoor air quality by using HEPA-filtered air purifiers and air conditioner filters. These devices can reduce the risk of allergic reactions by removing allergens from the air.
•    Keep humidity levels in check at home to prevent the growth of mold and fungal spores. You can use dehumidifiers to keep humidity levels low or ventilate humid areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Avoid having plants that would increase mold growth in the house.
•    To control allergy symptoms, antihistamines, nasal sprays, or eye drops recommended by your doctor should be used regularly.
•    Tobacco and tobacco products should absolutely not be used, and individuals should not be present in environments where they are used. Smoking triggers allergic reactions in all allergic individuals. Regardless of how much allergen exposure is reduced, smoking alone can cause allergic reactions.

Allergy is already a disease that significantly affects quality of life, and as with all chronic illnesses, close monitoring and individual awareness are crucial. If the patient remains under proper monitoring and treatment, they can continue their life in a very high quality without experiencing the negative effects of these complaints. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Allergies