Allergy treatment focuses on reducing symptoms, preventing exposure to triggers, and controlling the immune response to allergens. The appropriate treatment depends on the type of allergy, the severity of symptoms, the patient’s age, and other health conditions. Treatment may include allergen avoidance, medications, immunotherapy, or emergency treatment for severe reactions.
How Are Allergies Treated?
Allergies cannot always be permanently eliminated, but symptoms can often be controlled effectively. Treatment usually begins with identifying and avoiding the allergen when possible. Medicines may then be used to relieve symptoms or reduce inflammation.
People with severe allergies may also need an emergency treatment plan. In some cases, allergen immunotherapy can gradually reduce sensitivity to specific allergens.
Avoiding Allergy Triggers
Avoiding known allergens is one of the most important parts of allergy management. Once a trigger has been identified, reducing exposure can help prevent symptoms.
Examples include:
- Avoiding foods that cause allergic reactions
- Keeping away from known environmental allergens when possible
- Using dust-control measures for dust mite allergies
- Reducing exposure to animal dander
- Avoiding medications that have caused allergic reactions
- Using protective equipment when workplace exposure is unavoidable
Complete avoidance is not always possible, so additional treatment may be necessary.
Medicines Used to Treat Allergies
Several types of medicines can help control allergic symptoms. The choice depends on the symptoms and severity of the reaction.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines reduce the effects of histamine, a chemical involved in many allergic reactions. They can help relieve symptoms such as:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itching
- Watery eyes
- Hives
Some antihistamines can cause drowsiness, while newer options are generally less sedating.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids reduce inflammation and may be used in different forms depending on the allergic condition. Nasal corticosteroid sprays are commonly used for allergic rhinitis, while topical corticosteroids may be used for certain inflammatory skin conditions.
For severe allergic reactions, corticosteroids may sometimes be used as part of medical treatment, but they do not replace epinephrine for anaphylaxis.
Decongestants
Decongestants can temporarily relieve nasal congestion associated with some allergies. They may be available as oral medicines or nasal sprays.
They are not appropriate for everyone, and some nasal decongestant sprays should only be used for a short period because prolonged use can worsen congestion.
Leukotriene Modifiers
Leukotriene modifiers may be prescribed for certain allergic respiratory conditions, particularly when asthma or allergic rhinitis is involved. They work by blocking the effects of leukotrienes, inflammatory chemicals involved in airway inflammation.
Epinephrine for Severe Allergic Reactions
Epinephrine is the first-line emergency treatment for anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.
People who have been prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector should know how and when to use it. Emergency medical care should be sought immediately after using epinephrine because symptoms can return or require additional treatment.
Allergen Immunotherapy
Allergen immunotherapy is a treatment designed to gradually reduce the body’s sensitivity to specific allergens. It involves giving controlled doses of an allergen over time so that the immune system becomes less reactive.
Immunotherapy may be used for certain allergies, particularly some environmental allergies and insect venom allergies.
Two common forms include:
- Allergy shots: Allergens are given through injections at gradually adjusted doses.
- Sublingual immunotherapy: Certain allergens are administered under the tongue in specific treatment formulations.
Immunotherapy usually requires a long-term treatment plan and should be prescribed and monitored by an appropriate healthcare professional.
Other Allergy Treatment Options
Depending on the type of allergy, additional approaches may be used to control symptoms. For example, saline nasal rinses may help remove allergens from the nasal passages, while moisturizers and appropriate skin care can help protect the skin in people with allergic or inflammatory skin conditions.
For food allergies, careful food-label reading and avoidance of known allergens are important parts of management.
Allergy Treatment for Different Conditions
Treatment varies according to the type of allergic disease.
Allergic rhinitis: Often managed with allergen avoidance, antihistamines, and nasal corticosteroids.
Food allergies: Primarily managed through strict avoidance of the trigger and preparation for accidental exposure.
Allergic asthma: May require inhaled medications and management of identified triggers.
Atopic dermatitis: May involve moisturizers, topical medications, and avoidance of factors that worsen symptoms.
Insect venom allergy: Avoidance is important, and venom immunotherapy may be recommended for some people with serious reactions.
Importance of Allergy Management in Nursing
Nurses help patients understand their allergy treatment plans and recognize changes in symptoms. They may administer prescribed medications, monitor patients for treatment responses, document allergic reactions, and provide education about avoiding triggers.
Patient education is particularly important for people at risk of anaphylaxis. Nurses can reinforce correct use of prescribed epinephrine devices and explain the importance of seeking emergency medical care after a severe reaction.
Key Takeaways
- Allergy treatment depends on the type and severity of the allergic condition.
- Avoiding known allergens is an important part of allergy management.
- Antihistamines, corticosteroids, and other medicines can help control symptoms.
- Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis.
- Immunotherapy can reduce sensitivity to certain allergens over time.
- Patients with severe allergies should have an appropriate emergency management plan.