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Hay fever does not cause any fever or have anything to do with hay, as the name suggests. Hay fever, also called allergic rhinitis or nasal allergies, is an allergic response to certain allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Allergic rhinitis occurs when the immune system responds to something foreign in the environment and mounts a defense causing cold-like systems. It mainly affects the nose.
The symptoms can occur with a change in seasons or even throughout the year, depending on the trigger allergen. Seasonal rhinitis usually occurs in response to outdoor allergens like pollen, especially in spring and fall. Pollen is the most common allergen that causes seasonal allergic rhinitis. Perennial rhinitis occurs at any time during the year or all year round in response to allergens like pet dander.
Irritants like cigarette smoke, perfumes, and other strong odors can also cause hay fever. These irritants cause nonallergic rhinitis that is similar to allergic rhinitis except for the trigger of symptoms.
Allergic rhinitis is not life-threatening but can interfere with your daily life and make you feel uncomfortable. Finding the right trigger and subsequent treatment are important to manage this condition.
Common symptoms of hay fever include:
- Blocked or runny nose
- Sneezing and cough
- Itching in the nose, mouth, eyes, or throat
- Sore throat
- Red and watery eyes
- Swollen eyelids
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Dry and itchy skin, which is a common symptom of eczema
- Sinus pain
Symptoms occur on immediate exposure to the allergen. Certain symptoms like headaches happen after a long time of exposure to the allergen. Symptoms last as long as you’re exposed to the allergen. A blocked or runny nose, along with sneezing and cough, are the most common symptoms.
If there’s a history of allergies in your family, you’re more likely to get allergic rhinitis. If both the parents have asthma or eczema, the child is more likely to get allergic rhinitis. Variations in several genes have been found to play a role in the risk of allergic rhinitis. A few variations are listed below.
The TSLP gene encodes a protein called thymic stromal lymphopoietin, which is a cytokine. Cytokines are a category of proteins involved in immune cell signaling.
This protein promotes the maturation of certain cells called T helper type 2 (TH2) cells associated with diseases like asthma, allergic inflammation, and other allergic conditions.
rs1837253
rs1837253 is an SNP found in the TSLP gene. The minor allele, the T allele, is found to be associated with protection from asthma and a reduced risk of allergic rhinitis. The major allele, the C allele, is associated with an increased risk of hay fever with asthma.
The HLA-DQB1 gene is part of the family of genes that form the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) complex. The proteins produced by these genes play an important role in the immune system of the body. They help in distinguishing between self and foreign proteins and trigger the necessary immune response.
Variations in this gene are found to be associated with asthma and allergic rhinitis.
rs9273373
rs9273373 is an SNP found in the HLA-DQB1 gene. [The major allele, the G allele, is found to be associated with an increased risk of allergic rhinitis and asthma]
(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4280183/).
Few non-genetic factors that increase your risk of developing hay fever are:
- Working in an environment in which you’re constantly exposed to certain allergens like dust mites.
- Animal dander can cause hay fever in certain people. Living with pets can increase the risk of hay fever.
- Smoking cigarettes or exposure to smoke increase the risk of nonallergic rhinitis.
- Other allergies, atopic dermatitis, or asthma
- Living in an environment in which you’re constantly exposed to allergens
Skin-prick test: A small amount of allergen is pricked into the skin of your arm or upper back. If a bump or hive is seen at the site of the prick after about 20 minutes, it could mean that you’re allergic to that particular material. The allergen is also sometimes inserted under the skin in an intradermal skin-prick test, which is more sensitive.
Blood test: Blood samples are tested for the presence of allergic antibodies. It’s also called the radioallergosorbent test (RAST).
Self-care: The best way to avoid symptoms is to avoid exposure to allergens. If you’re experiencing symptoms, try to trace back your activities and find the cause of the symptoms.
- Try to stay indoors as much as possible to avoid increased exposure to pollen, especially in the spring and fall seasons when pollen counts are maximum.
- Keep your house clean and free of dust mites. Clean the air conditioner vents frequently as they accumulate a lot of dust.
- Wash your bedding frequently and use mite-proof covers if necessary.
- If you’re allergic to pet dander, try to keep the pet outside your room as much as possible to avoid exposure to allergens.
- Avoid using carpeted floors at home as they tend to accumulate a lot of dust and dander.
- Acupuncture, honey, certain probiotics, and nasal saline injection are certain home remedies that can help in treating allergies.
Medication: Many allergens aren’t airborne and cannot be easily avoided. Certain medications or treatment can help manage symptoms. Consult a doctor before starting any new medication or treatment.
- Antihistamines are used to treat allergies. Various OTC antihistamines like cetirizine, fexofenadine are available.
- Decongestants are usually used for a short period to relieve a blocked nose and other sinus-related symptoms.
- Eye drops and nasal sprays are also used for a short period to treat red eyes and other allergy-related symptoms. Steroid nasal sprays are used long-term to treat severe allergies.
- Corticosteroids are used to help with inflammation and immune response. They are usually used in nasal sprays.
- Immunotherapy or allergy shots are usually recommended by the doctor for severe allergies.
https://www.healthline.com/health/allergic-rhinitis#_noHeaderPrefixedContent
https://acaai.org/allergies/types/hay-fever-rhinitis
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/160665
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24388013
https://www.genecards.org/cgi-bin/carddisp.pl?gene=TSLP
https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/hla-dqb1/
https://www.snpedia.com/index.php/Rs1837253
The grass is America’s largest irrigated crop! About 2% of the land area in the country is filled with grass. Grass can be found in the form of lawns, turfs, and wild weeds.
Grass allergy is one of the most common pollen allergies diagnosed in the country.
People are not allergic to grass. They end up being allergic to grass pollen that is scattered all around the area where grasses are grown.
In the United States, grass pollination happens in late spring (April to June). This is the time people experience extreme allergic reactions to grass.
Grass allergy reactions are usually restricted to the eyes and nose. Some of the common symptoms are:
- Itchy eyes and nose
- Swelling around the eyes
- Stuffy nose
- Redness and pain around the eyes
- Watery eyes and nose
If you have an extreme grass allergy and are in direct contact with grass, you can develop hives in the skin too. Hives are bumps or raised surfaces on the skin that cause itch, redness, and pain.
Prolonged exposure to grass can cause anaphylaxis (breathing difficulty and shock).
Americans grow two major types of grasses - northern and southern. Here are some of the popular grass types that cause allergies.
- Bermuda grass
- Ryegrass
- Timothy grass
- Johnsongrass
- Kentucky bluegrass
- Sweet vernal grass
- Orchardgrass
The IL2 gene produces the interleukin 2 (IL2) protein. This protein is important for controlling the body’s immune response.
rs2069772 and Grass Allergy
rs2069772 is an SNP in the IL2 gene. The C allele of this SNP increases the risk of developing seasonal allergic rhinitis, including grass allergy.
The Leucine-Rich Repeat-Containing 32 (LRRC32) gene produces a protein called GARP that activates pro-inflammatory cells of the immune system. Certain genetic variations of this gene can overstimulate these cells and result in allergic inflammation.
High pollen count - When the grass pollen count is high, you are at higher risk for developing unpleasant reactions.
Extended pollination season - Generally, grass varieties have specific pollination times. Because of factors like increased global temperature and changes in climate, grasses can pollinate all through the year, causing grass allergies.
Climatic conditions - Grass pollens spread more during hot, windy, and dry climates. Such climatic conditions increase the risk of developing grass allergies.
External irritants - People who already have grass allergies have sensitive nasal passages and can be triggered by external irritants like:
- Smoke
- Tobacco smoke
- Aerosol smoke
- Air pollution
- Dust mites
- Wood smoke
Smoking - When people with existing grass allergies take up smoking, it makes their symptoms worse. Chronic smokers who have grass allergies are very risky for developing extreme symptoms like anaphylaxis.
Insects - Insects present on grassy surfaces can move around and enter houses, bringing with them grass pollen. This is especially true in homes with large outdoor gardens or lawns.
Check local pollen forecast - Check the local pollen forecast before you plan a day outdoors. If the pollen count is high, avoid going out much. This will prevent flaring up of the symptoms of grass allergies.
Mow your lawns really short - Unkept and tall grasses release more pollen grains than short and well-maintained lawns. If you have a lawn, ask someone to mow it for you very short at regular intervals.
Keep the windows closed - During the grass pollen season (April to June), close the windows and main door and use certified allergy-friendly centralized air conditioners to prevent the risks of grass allergy flare ups.
Take a bath and change clothes after a day spent outdoors - If you are spending time outdoors, come back home for a quick bath and change your clothes right away. These help prevent grass pollen from entering your nose or mouth.
Wear preventive accessories - Wear preventive accessories like hats, sunglasses, and full-sleeved clothes to avoid getting in contact with grass pollen. If your body reacts severely to grass pollen, you will be safer if you wear face masks when you step out.
Medications - Antihistamine over the counter drugs can help treat milder symptoms of grass allergy. Nasal drops or sprays are also available to curb the allergic reaction. If you have severe symptoms of the condition, prescription antihistamine drugs can help.
Some people get allergy shots to bring down the intensity of the condition. You will be injected with mild doses of grass pollen once every few weeks. This exposes the immune system to the allergen and makes it less sensitive.
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/grass-allergy
https://www.allergicliving.com/2010/07/02/outdoor-allergy-grass-allergy-attack/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/grass-allergy#symptoms
Pollen is one of the most common causes of allergies in the United States (US).
About 8% of adults and children in the US have pollen allergies.
Worldwide, 10-30% of the population is affected by this condition.
Pollen is a powdery substance that is transported from one plant to another to help in fertilization (reproduction). Pollen is made up of minute pollen grains.
Plants release pollen grains in the atmosphere, and these either travel through the wind or are carried by birds, animals, and insects to other plants. Light, dry, and small pollen grains can easily travel by the wind. Pollen grains are the most common causes of allergies.
Pollen allergy can be seasonal or year long. It is usually seen in most people during the growing seasons and depends on the specific pollen that you’re allergic to. During spring, there’s tree pollen in the air that some people are allergic to. Others may be allergic to grass pollen, especially during summer. Ragweed allergies usually occur in late spring or early fall.
Once pollen enters the human body, the immune system of people allergic to pollen considers it as a foreign and dangerous substance. The immunoglobulin E (IgE) cells are antibodies that are produced by the immune system in the presence of an allergen. When pollen comes in contact with IgE cells in the tissues of the nose and mouth, the tissues release chemicals like histamine and leukotrienes to alert the body.
These chemicals cause the body to respond with unpleasant allergic symptoms, including:
- Sneezing
- Itch in the nose, eyes, mouth, and ears
- Runny nose
- Excess mucus production in the nose
- Itchy throat
- Coughing
- Wheezing
There are thousands of different species of trees, plants, bushes, and shrubs that release pollen into the atmosphere. Some people can be allergic to a certain type of pollen but be alright when exposed to other types.
Here are some of the common types of pollen allergies found in the United States.
1. Grass pollen allergy
2. Birch pollen allergy
3. Ragweed pollen allergy
4. Oak pollen allergy
5. Cedar pollen allergy
Variations in certain genes have been observed in people with pollen allergy. Studying these variations can help predict if a person has a higher risk of getting the allergy compared to other people.
The LRRC32 gene encodes for a protein that is a key regulator of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-B), which is involved in various cellular processes, including immune response. LRRC32 expands to Leucine-Rich Repeat Containing 32, which encodes for a membrane protein.
rs2155219
rs2155219 is an SNP found in the LRRC32 gene. The T allele, the major allele, increases the risk of grass pollen allergy and hay fever.
The G allele, which is the minor allele, is associated with an increased risk of allergic sensitization.
The IL1RL1(https://www.genecards.org/cgi-bin/carddisp.pl?gene=IL1RL1) gene encodes for a protein that is a member of the interleukin1 family. It is involved in the immune system response.
rs10197862
rs10197862(https://www.snpedia.com/index.php/Rs10197862) is an SNP found in the IL1RL1 gene. The major allele, the A allele, is the risk allele.
Season - Late winter and spring seasons are when the pollen count in the atmosphere is very high. People experience pollen allergies the most during these seasons.
Climate changes - When plants produce more pollen, the pollen count in the atmosphere is high, and this increases the chances of pollen allergy flare-ups. Here are factors that affect pollen production.
- Air temperature
- CO2 (Carbon dioxide) in the atmosphere
- Intensity of sunlight
- Rainfall
Insect migration - The number of insects that carry pollen from one place to another has increased globally. Insects are migrating from one place to another in large numbers. This also increases the chance of getting allergies.
Increase in global humidity - Increase in humidity makes insects, dust mites, and molds more active. This, in turn, increases exposure to pollens.
External irritants - External irritants like aerosol spray, tobacco smoke, dust mites, wood smoke, and air pollution exposure can also trigger hay fever by making the nasal passage more sensitive to irritants.
A pollen allergy can usually be diagnosed easily, but you may need to consult an allergist sometimes to confirm the reaction and treat it.
Skin-prick test: A small amount of allergen is pricked into different areas of the skin. After 15-20 minutes, if signs of allergy like redness, swelling, and itchiness are observed, the person is said to be allergic to pollen.
The best way to manage any allergy is to avoid the allergen causing it. This can prevent severe allergic reactions.
Avoiding exposure:
- Try to stay indoors on windy days.
- Wear a mask when pollen counts are reported to be high.
- Try to avoid gardening or yard work during peak growing season.
Home remedies:
- Vacuum your house regularly using a vacuum with HEPA filters to eliminate any allergens.
- Wash clothes that you wear outside as pollen may stick to them.
- Try to avoid drying clothes outside as pollen may stick to them.
- Keep a squeeze bottle handy in case you inhale pollen and need to flush it out of your nose.
- Use air conditioning at home and in the car to avoid direct exposure to pollen.
Medications:
Certain OTC medications like antihistamines and decongestants can help with allergy symptoms.
Allergy shots:
If OTC medications don’t help with symptoms, your doctor would recommend an allergy shot.
Allergy shots are basically a series of injections containing the allergen. The shots are meant to help your immune system get used to the allergen and reduce the severity of symptoms. A series of shots is needed overtime to help relieve symptoms.
https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies/pollen
https://acaai.org/allergies/types-allergies/pollen-allergy
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322256
https://acaai.org/news/what-four-factors-influence-severity-allergy-season
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23817569
https://www.genecards.org/cgi-bin/carddisp.pl?gene=LRRC32
Have you ever felt dizzy on a car or train ride? This sensation of wooziness is called motion sickness. This usually occurs when you’re in repeated motion in a vehicle or any other movement that can affect your inner ear and balance.
Repeated motion tends to mess up the balance of the body. The sensory organs receive different signals. For example, when you’re in an airplane, your body may feel the minor turbulences, but your eyes see a stationary view, and this is conflicting. The different sensory receptors send mixed signals to the brain, and this causes motion sickness.
Humans have a functional vestibular system that is responsible for the balance. The sensory systems in your body include the inner ear, eyes, skin pressure receptors, muscle and joint sensory receptors. The inner ear contains motion-sensing organs. It is an important contributing factor to motion sickness.
People with motion sickness can usually diagnose themselves when they travel or do other specific activities that involve a lot of movement. The symptoms wear off after the travel, usually. In rarely severe cases, professional help may be required.
Common symptoms of motion sickness include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach upset
- Dizziness
- Loss of balance
- Sweating
- Headache
- Drowsiness
Variations in certain genes have been observed in people with motion sickness. Studying these variations can help predict if a person has a higher risk of motion sickness compared to other people.
The GPD2 gene encodes an enzyme involved in glucose homeostasis (maintenance of blood glucose levels). The enzyme is called glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase 2.
rs56051278
rs56051278 is an SNP found in the GPD2 gene. The minor allele, the G allele, is found to be associated with an increased risk of motion sickness.
The PRDM16 gene encodes a protein called PR Domain containing 16. This protein is also called a zinc finger transcription factor. It is involved in the development of brown adipose tissue, also called brown fat. The main function of brown fat is to turn food into body heat.
rs61759167
rs61759167 is an SNP found in the PRDM16 gene. The minor allele, the T allele, is found to be associated with an increased risk of motion sickness.
Following the recommendations mentioned below, can help avoid motion sickness while travelling:
- In a car, try to open a window for some fresh air every once in a while.
- Avoid reading books during travel.
- Close your eyes and relax or try napping.
- Driving yourself or sitting in the front can help relieve symptoms.
- Get plenty of rest the night before traveling and eat a few hours ahead so that your stomach is settled.
- Avoid greasy, spicy, or acidic food before travel.
- Chewing fresh ginger or in a tablet form can help deal with symptoms.
- Chewing, in general, is found to help with conflicts between vision and balance. Chewing gum is a common way to deal with motion sickness symptoms.
- Peppermint has soothing effects on the body and helps you relax.
- Breathing exercises and acupuncture are found to help people.
Medications
If home remedies don’t help you deal with symptoms completely, certain medications can be taken. These are usually prescribed by a doctor. These medications include:
- Scopolamine: It is the most commonly prescribed medication. It is in the form of a patch that is placed behind the ear 6-8 hours before travel.
- Promethazine: The effects last for about 6-8 hours and the medicine should be taken 2 hours before travel. There are side effects like dry mouth and drowsiness.
- Cyclizine: This medication needs to be taken 30 minutes before travel.
- Dimenhydrinate chewing gum: This medication available in the form of chewing gum is absorbed through the cheek.
- Meclizine: This is not recommended for children below 12 years of age. This needs to be taken 1 hour before travel for the maximum effect.
https://www.healthline.com/health/motion-sickness
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/176198
https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/ear-infection/motion-sickness#1
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25628336
Histamine Intolerance is the excess accumulation of histamine in the body. About 1% of the world’s population is diagnosed with histamine intolerance.
Histamine is an organic compound produced in the body. It is also obtained from certain foods you eat. Histamine has the following functions in the body:
- Releases stomach acid to help digestion
- Informs the brain in case of inflammation or allergy
- Helps in the contraction of smooth muscles of the stomach, lungs, and uterus
- Dilates blood vessels and reduces blood pressure
- Increases heart rate in case of physical or mental trauma or danger
Below are the symptoms of excess histamine accumulation in the body:
- Diarrhea
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Stomach pain and cramps
- Itchy skin and hives
- Congested or runny nose
- Itchy, watery, and red eyes
- Continuous sneezing and coughing
- Dizziness
- Rapid heart rate and high blood pressure
- Difficulty in breathing
It is almost too easy to mistake the symptoms of histamine intolerance for those of a food allergy. This is because in both cases, the symptoms are a result of a surge in histamine levels. However, the reason for this surge is different in each case.
In food allergies, proteins in certain foods are seen as invaders, and our immune system releases histamine and other chemicals. These, in turn, cause symptoms like itching and hives.
In histamine intolerance, the symptoms are brought about by histamine-rich foods or foods that induce the excess release of histamine. Histamine intolerance is not sensitivity to histamine but an indication that too much of it has built up in your body. This occurs when your body cannot break down histamine effectively. Depending on the breakdown rate, different individuals can tolerate different levels of histamine.
The amine oxidase copper containing 1 (AOC1) gene produces diamine oxidase (DAO) in the body. DAO helps breakdown histamine. Lowered levels of DAO leads to higher levels of histamine in the body.
Certain mutations in the AOC1 gene results in histamine intolerance. Certain SNPs in the AOC1 gene results in decreased DAO levels, thereby increasing the risk of histamine intolerance:
When you are intolerant to histamine, it does not mean you are sensitive or allergic to histamine. It only means that your body has accumulated more histamine than what’s usually needed.
Bacterial infections - Bacterial infections lead to bacteria overgrowth in the body, and this can increase histamine levels. Normal levels of DAO cannot breakdown this excess histamine.
Excessive consumption of histamine-rich foods - Fermented foods, canned foods, alcohol, smoked meat, pickles, etc., are very high in histamine levels. Including these foods in your everyday diet can increase histamine accumulation in the body and lead to histamine intolerance.
Foods encouraging histamine release - While some foods can be low in histamine, they can encourage the release of histamine from the tissue mast cells. Few such food options that can lead to histamine intolerance are:
- Citrus fruits
- Papaya
- Berries
- Tomatoes
- Pineapple
- Nuts
- Chocolate
- Egg white
- Pork
- Fish
- Crustaceans like crabs, lobsters, and shrimps
Certain drugs and long term medications - Certain drugs are known to increase histamine production in the body. Long term use of such medications can lead to histamine intolerance.
If you are taking one or more of the below drugs, talk to your doctor about their effects on your histamine levels.
- Antibiotics
- Antidepressants
- Diuretics
- Muscle relaxants
- Tuberculosis medications
- Antipsychotics
Atopic eczema - Studies show that people with severe atopic eczema end up having higher histamine levels in the plasma. This can, with time, lead to histamine intolerance.
Excess alcohol consumption - When you consume excess alcohol, it leads to histamine intolerance in the following ways:
1. Alcohol and histamine metabolic pathways release the same enzymes - aldehyde oxidase. This prevents histamine from getting fully broken down.
2. Alcohol encourages the tissue mast cells to release more histamine than what’s needed.
3. Alcohol reduces DAO production in the body leading to increased histamine levels. This can result in histamine intolerance.
Diamine Oxidase (DAO) supplements - A 2019 study made use of DAO oral supplements in people with histamine intolerance. The study concluded that the symptoms of the condition reduced greatly with these supplements.
Histamine-elimination diet - Check the list of foods rich in histamine and eliminate them from your diet for at least 2-3 weeks. This is enough to eliminate stored histamine from the body. Start adding one food at a time and watch for the reappearance of the symptoms. This will help create your own food plan that keeps the symptoms of histamine intolerance controlled.
Choose fresher foods - Most packaged, canned, frozen, and pickled foods are high in histamine levels. You can control the symptoms when you choose fresher fruits, vegetables, greens, and grains.
Know your threshold for alcohol - Some people with severe histamine intolerance start stowing symptoms with very little alcohol in the body. Others can handle a certain limit before they reach their threshold. Drink moderately and watch your body for allergic flare-ups. You will know your alcohol limit over time.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322543#symptoms One look at a cockroach walking on your kitchen floor or slab, and you rush to get it right out of your home! Cockroaches are icky pests that are known to spread germs and cause diseases. But, did you know, just like other animals, birds, and pollen, people can be allergic to cockroaches too? You will be shocked to know that around 78%-98% of homes in urban areas contain cockroaches, and about 60% of the people with asthma who live in cities are allergic to cockroaches. A protein found in cockroaches triggers an allergic reaction in some people. Like any allergy, cockroach allergy gets triggered by an allergen, often an enzyme (a type of protein) released from the body of roaches. This allergen is found in the cockroach’s saliva, waste, and body parts and spreads everywhere the cockroach goes. Coming in contact with these cockroach proteins can trigger an allergic reaction. In people who are allergic to cockroaches, common symptoms include: In asthmatics, symptoms of cockroach allergy include: Cockroach allergy has been reported as an important cause of asthma for over 50 years. Many studies that have been conducted so far establish a positive correlation between cockroach allergy and the development of asthma. The main reason for this is environmental exposure and sensitization to the various species of cockroaches that exist in the world today. In fact, this sensitization to cockroach allergens is the biggest risk factor for the development of asthma in low-income populations in urban setups. There are many genes and polymorphisms that have strong associations with this condition, particularly the genetic variants in TSLP, MBL2, CD14, and IL-12A genes. One particular gene, the IL-12A or Interleukin 12, and its variants influence cockroach allergy in children with asthma. IL-12A is involved in immune responses, especially the one involving T cells. IL-12A also has a role to play in the pathogenesis of asthma. The gene is located on the p-arm of chromosome 3. Variations in The IL-12A Gene The presence of the T allele in SNP rs2243123 is associated with an increased risk of cockroach allergy with respect to the two common cockroach species P. Americana and B. germanica. The presence of the A allele in SNP rs2243151 is associated with an increased risk of cockroach allergy. From the many studies performed on cockroach allergy and its association with asthma, non-genetic risk factors that increase one’s risk of developing the cockroach allergy include: Low socio-economic status: People from low socio-economic segments living in urban cities are at an increased risk of developing cockroach allergy as they are exposed to cockroaches more often and get sensitized to them. Race: African-Americans are at an increased risk of developing the condition. Pre-existing asthma: People who have atopic or other types of asthma are at an increased risk of developing cockroach allergy. In fact, cockroach allergy is the most common indoor allergy that asthmatics suffer from. Lifestyle modifications: Cockroaches are common members in most homes, and an allergy to them is a very common occurrence too. If you suspect you have a cockroach allergy, or your symptoms seem to be getting worse, visit your doctor immediately to help bring it under control. A simple blood test or skin test can help diagnose if you or your loved one is allergic to cockroaches. https://www.aafa.org/cockroach-allergy/https://acaai.org/allergies/types/cockroach-allergy House Dust Mites or dust mites belong to the spider family and are small and microscopic beings present everywhere. They are 1/3rd of a millimeter in size and look like a small white bug. Did you know that dust mites are present all over the world except in Antarctica? If you seem to have allergic reactions all through the year, then it could mean that you are allergic to dust mites. Dust mites love humid and slightly warm temperatures and have strong survival skills. While there are up to 13 types of dust mites present, the three common types that could be present in your house are: House mites feed on the dead skin flakes of humans and other animals. Since human beings shed 30,000-40,000 dead skin cells every minute, there is always so much food for dust mites to eat, flourish, and reproduce. About 100,000 dust mites live in each square yard of your home carpet. The mattresses you sleep in have hundreds of thousands of dust mites happily living and reproducing. If your pillow is 2+ years old, up to 10% of the weight of your pillow could be from dust mites and their droppings! People are usually not allergic to live dust mites. However, they react negatively to the droppings of these mites and the dead bodies of these mites. Every dust mite leaves behind at least 20 droppings a day. Imagine your mattress having 500,000 dust mites. That means every day, your mattress is filled with 10,000,000 new mite droppings! Each dust mite can live for about 2-3 months. Female dust mites lay 60-100 eggs during their lifespan. As a result, the number of dust mites in your house multiplies every day. This is the reason people’s allergic reactions to dust mites increase with time. If you are allergic to the dead mites and droppings of dust mites, then you can have the below allergic reactions. The IL10 gene produces the interleukin 10 protein. This protein plays a role in bringing down inflammation in the body. This is considered a good gene and brings down the unwanted effects of immune responses. [The GG genotype of the rs3024496 SNP of this gene brings down the activity of the interleukin 10 protein and hence increases the risk of asthma when exposed to dust mites] (https://www.jacionline.org/article/S0091-6749(08)00599-X/fulltext). rs117902240 rs115997623 Industrial settings: People who live in highly industrialized areas are exposed to more dust pollution and dust mites. These individuals have a higher chance of developing dust mite allergy. Heredity: Though rare, dust mite allergy can run in the family. If your grandparents or parents have had dust mite allergies, the chances are that you develop it too. Age: Infants and children are at higher risk for developing dust mite allergies than adults. Exposure to excessive dust mites early in life: If a person has been exposed to excessive dust mites very early in life, he/she is at more risk for developing a dust mite allergy. Smoking: Cigarette smoking can damage the airway epithelial cells. The airway epithelium is a column-like structure in the respiratory tract that prevents allergens and external elements from entering the tract. Tobacco smoke kills these cells and makes you vulnerable to dust mites. [Smoking also worsens symptoms of dust mite allergies] (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10340943/). Asthma and other allergies: 75% of children and 50% of adults with asthma are also diagnosed with other forms of allergies. Up to 85% of people with asthma and other allergies end up being allergic to house mites. This relationship between these different kinds of allergies makes it difficult to treat the underlying condition. Confirm dust mite allergy Cover mattresses and pillows with thicker fabrics and plastic sheets Don’t use carpets unless necessary Wash bedding in hot water Use air filters Use dehumidifiers Acaricide cleaners Antihistamine sprays and drugs House dust mites allergen immunotherapy https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK447098/ Misophonia means “hatred of sound” in Greek. Also called selective sound sensitivity syndrome, misophonia is the dislike or hatred of certain sounds to an extent where it interferes with daily lifestyle. It is a neurological condition that has both psychological and physiological symptoms. Everyone gets occasionally irritated by certain sounds like chewing or clicking a pen. For people with misophonia, these sounds cause a severe reaction in them. They have very strong emotional reactions and physiological distress. The sensitivity to sound can cause a fight-or-flight response in people and interfere with their everyday lives. Emotional reactions like anxiety, rage, panic, anger, and hatred are triggered by this condition. This can also turn into verbal and physical aggression, avoidance, isolation, and depression. The reaction is an involuntary physical and emotional reflex triggered by the sound. It activates the autonomic nervous system located in the brain and the limbic system associated with emotion. This results in emotional distress and the fight or flight response, which involves sweating, rapid heartbeat, and hormonal changes, among other symptoms. This reaction usually happens immediately within seconds of hearing the sound. The symptoms are instant and huge and take over cognitive functioning. People with misophonia are often misdiagnosed as having anxiety or other disorders. This is because misophonia related research is fairly new. A lot of studies are being done to understand the condition better and establish more facts about it. It is not included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which is the main resource for diagnosing mental disorders in the United States. There is an International Misophonia Network that lists doctors with knowledge of misophonia to help with the condition. The triggering sounds may vary over time and among different people. Almost any sound can be a potential trigger. The common triggers that cause misophonia are: Since misophonia-related research is fairly new, many health professionals cannot easily differentiate between it and other related conditions. A few characteristics of misophonia include: Misophonia is more common in women than in men. About 15-20% of adults with European ancestry were found to suffer from this condition. This indicates that there’s a genetic link to misophonia. A genetic marker located near the TENM2 gene involved in brain development is associated with the feeling of rage at trigger sounds. The TENM2 gene encodes a protein called Teneurin-2. This protein is involved in neural development and neuronal connectivity. rs1837253 This is a lifelong disorder with no specific cure. However, the symptoms can be managed by following several measures. https://www.healthline.com/health/misophonia [In the United States, about 62% of households have pets] (https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/allergies/pet-allergy). At the same time, millions of Americans are allergic to pets. The most common pet allergen is dander, the dead skin shed by pets. Other allergens include proteins found in the pet’s urine and saliva. The overreaction of the immune system results in an allergic reaction. The immune system recognizes the protein in the animal’s skin, saliva, or urine as foreign and produces histamine and other chemicals that lead to the symptoms of an allergy. The pet allergens can even be found in homes that don’t have pets, as you can carry them on your clothing. The allergens can be found on furniture and walls. They spread through the air whenever the animal is petted or groomed, and can stay airborne for a long time. Signs and symptoms are usually very mild and can be easily managed. The allergy can be life-threatening in rare cases where there is a severe allergic reaction like anaphylaxis. This impairs breathing and can send the body into shock if immediate action is not taken. Anaphylaxis can also lead to cardiac arrest. Cats and dogs are the leading cause of pet allergies. Other animals like rodents and rabbits can also cause allergies. Animals without fur, rarely cause allergies. The symptoms vary from person to person and can usually occur immediately after consumption or after a few hours. The symptoms are common to those seen in other allergic reactions. Variations in certain genes have been observed in people with pet allergies. Studying these variations can help predict if a person has a higher risk of getting the allergy compared to other people. The HLA-DQB1 gene is part of the family of genes that form the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) complex. The proteins produced by these genes play an important role in the immune system of the body. They help in distinguishing between self and foreign proteins and trigger the necessary immune response. Variations in this gene are found to be associated with asthma and allergic rhinitis. rs7775228 The LRRC32 gene encodes for a membrane protein that contains 20 leucine-rich repeats. It regulates a key regulator of a growth factor called TGF-B, which is involved in several functions of the immune system. rs2155219 If one or both the parents have any allergies or asthma, the child is more likely to develop a pet allergy. Skin-prick test: A small amount of purified allergen extract is pricked into the skin on the forearm or back. After 15-20 minutes, if signs of allergy like redness or itching are observed, you’re found to be allergic to that specific allergen. Blood test: Blood samples are tested for the presence of allergic antibodies against proteins found in pet dander, urine, or saliva. This can indicate how sensitive you are to an allergen. The best way to manage any allergy is to avoid the allergen causing it. This can prevent severe allergic reactions. Lifestyle: If you still want to keep your pet, there are certain measures you can take to avoid an allergic reaction. Studies show that being exposed to pets early in life can help avoid allergies. Medications: Treatments: https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/allergens/pets/index.cfm
https://www.entandallergy.com/blog-posts/details/your-mystery-food-sensitivity-might-actually-be-a-histamine-intolerance
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17490952/
https://www.histamineintolerance.org.uk/about/the-food-diary/the-food-list/
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1398-9995.2011.02548.x
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21488903/
Symptoms of Cockroach Allergy
- Uncontrolled sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy, red, and watery eyes
- Itchiness in throat, mouth, and nose
- Cough
- Skin itch and skin rash
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Breathing trouble
- Whistling sound while breathing outCockroach Allergy and Asthma
How Does Genetics Contribute To Cockroach Allergy?
IL-12A Gene
Two SNPs, rs2243123 and rs2243151, associated with the IL-12A gene, have shown a risk of increased allergic susceptibility to different species of cockroachesNon-Genetic Influences on Cockroach Allergy
Recommendations for Managing Cockroach Allergy
Individuals who are allergic to cockroaches need to make a few lifestyle modifications to avoid cockroaches as much as they can. Here’s what you can do:
- Always cover all your trash/garbage bins.
- Keep food, both cooked and uncooked, in airtight containers with proper lids.
- Clean up any food spills, crumbs, oil, etc., from the stovetop, counters, tables, and floor as these can attract cockroaches.
- Cockroaches like damp places. So, look out for any leaking pipes in your home and seal any cracks in the floor or walls from where cockroaches can enter the house.
- Use anti-cockroach sprays, gels, and traps to drive out or kill existing cockroaches from your house.Summary
References
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8648037/
https://www.jacionline.org/article/S0091-6749(96)70209-9/fulltext
https://www.healthline.com/health/cockroach-allergy#bottom-line
https://www.webmd.com/allergies/nasal-allergy-trigger-cockroaches
https://www.nationaljewish.org/conditions/allergy/overview/allergens/cockroach
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2525650/
1. American house dust mites
2. European house dust mites
3. Mayne’s house dust mitesWhat is a Dust Mite Allergy?
Symptoms of Dust Mite Allergy
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes
- Red and itchy eyes and nose
- Postnasal drip (dripping flow of mucus from the nose to your throat)
- Itchy and red skin
- Coughing and wheezing
- Shortness of breathHow Does Genetics Contribute To Dust Mite Allergy?
IL10 Gene
The AC genotype of the rs117902240 SNP decreases FEV1 capacity and increases the risk of asthma attacks when exposed to excessive dust mites. FEV1 is a measure of a person’s vital capacity.
The minor T allele of the rs115997623 SNP is considered risky and is associated with reduced FEV1 function and an increased risk for asthma attacks with exposure to dust mites.Non-genetic Influences On Dust Mite Allergy
Managing Dust Mite Allergy
There are so many substances that can cause allergies and it is important to understand if you are allergic to dust mites. Here are some tests/diagnostic methods that help with the confirmation:
- IgE blood test - This blood test looks for IgE antibodies in the blood to identify if the person is having an adverse reaction to dust mites.
- Skin prick test - Exposes the skin to a small amount of dust mite allergen and checks the reactions.
- Atopic patch tests - Atopic patch tests make use of delayed reactions and the presence of T cells in the body to diagnose dust mite allergies.
- Basophil activation tests - Basophils are types of White Blood Cells that fight against external allergens. These tests look for basophil activation markers to know if a person is having an allergic reaction to dust mites.
By covering mattresses with plastic sheets in the morning, you can prevent the penetration of dust mites into the mattress surface. Thicker and finely woven fabric covers in the night prevent dust mites from penetrating from the mattress to your body.
If not needed, carpets can be removed from floors, as this helps bring down dust mite growth at home.
Make sure you wash your bedding at least once a week in hot water to kill dust mites. Drying the bedding in bright sunlight also helps kill existing mites.
Air filters or air purifiers come with HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filtration system and can eliminate microscopic dust mites and their particles from the room.
Dehumidifiers are appliances that help bring down the humidity levels in a room. If you live in a humid area, using these can help bring down the growth of dust mites.
Acaricides are kinds of pesticides used in killing dust mites and ticks. These are toxic in nature and need to be used with caution. Most people take the help of professional cleaners who use acaricide based products to get rid of mites.
Since dust mites cause general allergic reactions in the body, treating the reactions with antihistamine sprays and over the counter drugs help.
This immunotherapy practice is also called desensitization. This involves injecting minute doses of the allergen (dust mites in this case) to the individual over a period of time to decrease sensitivity.
The injections are offered in regular periods for around 24 weeks, and this will be followed by 3-5 years of monthly maintenance schedules. This process gives permanent relief and reduces the flaring up of dust mite allergic symptoms.Summary
References
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dust-mites/symptoms-causes/syc-20352173
https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies/dust-mites#treatment
https://www.aafa.org/dust-mite-allergy/
https://acaai.org/allergies/types/dust-allergy
What is Misophonia?
Triggers of Misophonia
- Sounds related to the mouth like smacking lips, slurping, throat clearing, chomping, and swallowing
- Loud breathing sounds
- Clicking pens
- Papers rustling
- Clocks ticking
- Sounds of some animals
- Slamming car doors
- Certain visual triggers include wagging feet, twirling hairCharacteristics of Misophonia
1. More women have misophonia than men.
2. The symptoms are first seen between the ages of 9 to 12 in most people. The onset of this condition is generally before puberty.
3. The first reaction is usually triggered by a specific sound from a parent or other family members, and this intensifies over time, and new triggers arise.
4. People with this condition tend to have a higher IQ.The Genetics Behind Misophonia
TENM2 Gene
rs1837253 is an SNP found in the TENM2 gene. The G allele of this SNP is the risk allele and is associated with an increased risk of the condition.Non-Genetic Factors that Influence Misophonia
How to Manage Misophonia?
- Try to actively avoid triggers as repeated exposure to the trigger can make the response worse.
- Maintaining good health, both emotional and physical, and help lessen the severity of the response for a trigger.
- Counseling: This can definitely help people manage their symptoms better and lead a normal lifestyle. Misophonia can have a negative impact on the people around you, too, as you display severe emotional and physical distress. Support is needed for both the person with the condition and their family. Misophonia Interantional, an advocacy and networking organization, provides a lot of useful information regarding this condition, including managing this condition and connecting with several researchers and trained professionals.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy: This may help change the negative associations linked to triggering noises. Audio of rain, nature, or other sounds are streamed using ear-level devices, and this helps most people experience a relief in symptoms.
- Treating tinnitus can help people tolerate triggering noises better.Summary
References
https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/what-is-misophonia#1
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320682
https://misophoniainstitute.org/what-is-misophonia/
https://www.misophoniainternational.com/
https://www.snpedia.com/index.php/Rs2937573
https://www.23andme.com/topics/traits/misophonia/
https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/12058/misophoniaWhat is Pet Allergy?
Symptoms of Pet Allergy
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Nasal congestion causing pain
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Hives
- Watery, red, or itchy eyes
- Anaphylaxis in severe cases
- Difficulty breathing
- Eczema
- Itchy skinThe Genetics Behind Pet Allergy
HLA-DQB1 Gene
rs7775228 is an SNP found in the HLA-DBQ1 gene. People with the minor allele, the C allele, are found to have an increased risk of asthma, and [allergic rhinitis] (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22036096/).
The C allele has also been associated with increased sensitivity to dog allergens. LRRC32 Gene
rs2155219 is an SNP found in the LRRC32 gene. People with the minor allele, G allele are found to have a 1.18X increased risk of allergic sensitization. The TT genotype is found to be associated with allergic rhinitis.Identifying Pet Allergy
How to manage pet allergy?
If you decide to give away your pet, you still need to thoroughly clean your house to get rid of all the allergens. Replace carpets, bedding, upholstered furniture, and vacuum your entire house with HEPA filters.
1. Ask someone else you live with who does not have allergies to give frequent baths to your pet, at least once a week.
2. Make your bedroom a pet-free zone as you would spend most of your time there. This prevents allergens from settling on things in the room.
3. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove allergens in the air. Vacuum your house frequently with machines containing HEPA filters.
4. Remove any furniture, upholstery, and curtains that can collect dander easily. Try to avoid carpets also.
5. Wear a dust mask if you cannot find anyone to help with cleaning your pet.
6. Clean the pet’s kennel, litter box frequently. It would be better if someone without allergies can help with this.
You may need to take allergy medications in addition to taking measures to avoid the allergen. Your doctor may prescribe any of the following medications based on your case:
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- Corticosteroids
- Leukotriene modifiers
1. Immunotherapy: This is done through a series of allergy shots. Small doses of allergen are given as weekly shots, and the dosage is gradually increased to get your immune system used to the allergen.
2. Nasal irrigation: A specially designed squeeze bottle or a neti pot can be used to flush the allergen and thickened mucus out of your sinuses. A prepared saline solution is used. Summary
References
https://www.aafa.org/pet-dog-cat-allergies/
https://acaai.org/allergies/types/pet-allergy
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pet-allergy/symptoms-causes/syc-20352192
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23817569
https://www.snpedia.com/index.php/Rs7775228
https://www.snpedia.com/index.php/Rs2155219
