Allergy - Inhalant

An inhalant allergy is an immune reaction to airborne substances—such as pollen, dust mites, mould, pet dander, smoke or strong odors—triggering IgE‑mediated inflammation of the nose, eyes and airways. Typical symptoms include sneezing, runny or blocked nose, itchy/watery eyes, cough or wheeze; severe cases can worsen asthma. Diagnosis uses history, skin or blood tests; treatment includes avoidance, antihistamines, nasal steroids and immunotherapy.

The best treatment combines allergen avoidance, symptom control with antihistamines and intranasal corticosteroids, and long‑term immunotherapy for disease modification. Oral antihistamines relieve itching and sneezing; nasal steroid sprays reduce congestion and inflammation. For severe allergic reactions, carry and use intramuscular epinephrine immediately. Consult an allergist to confirm triggers and create a personalized plan, including possible subcutaneous or sublingual immunotherapy.

You usually can't permanently "remove" an allergy, but you can manage or reduce reactions. Avoid triggers, use medications (antihistamines, inhaled or intranasal steroids) and carry epinephrine for anaphylaxis. For some inhalant or insect‑venom allergies, allergen immunotherapy (injections or sublingual tablets) can induce long‑term tolerance; oral immunotherapy is emerging for some food allergies. See an allergist for testing and a tailored plan.

Allergy panels can cause mild local reactions: redness, itching, swelling or small raised bumps at skin-prick sites. Blood tests may cause bruising, soreness, fainting or infection at the venipuncture site. Rarely, skin testing can trigger a systemic allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Delayed large local reactions are possible. Most effects are short-lived; seek immediate care for breathing difficulty, widespread hives, dizziness, or fainting.

House dust mite proteins are a common inhalant allergen. These microscopic creatures live in bedding, upholstery and carpets; their feces and body fragments become airborne and can trigger allergic rhinitis or asthma in sensitized individuals. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes and wheeze. Reducing exposure involves regular washing, vacuuming with HEPA filters, dehumidifying, and using allergen-proof bedding.

A breathing allergy is commonly called allergic rhinitis (hay fever) when it inflames the nose, or allergic asthma when it affects the airways. Both are immune reactions to triggers like pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander, causing sneezing, congestion, coughing, wheeze and shortness of breath. Management includes avoiding triggers, antihistamines, nasal steroids, inhalers and allergy immunotherapy when advised.