Commercial allergy testing kits aren’t recommended because the testing is often of a lower standard than that provided by the NHS or an accredited private clinic.

Left untreated, these symptoms can lead to other issues like nasal congestion, headaches, sore throats, and other issues, so treatment is important. The reasons for this are not understood, but one of the main theories is it’s the result of living in a cleaner, germ-free environment, which reduces the number of germs our immune system has to deal with. The allergic reaction isn’t caused by animal fur, but flakes of dead animal skin and their urine and saliva. Katie Kinsella is a SEND Teacher, supporting children with complex needs in a mainstream primary school. Cockroaches cause allergic reactions in people who live in the inner cities or southern parts of the United States.Immunotherapy helps create a tolerance to allergens and can improve many of the symptoms related to inhalant allergy exposure. If your symptoms are caused by seasonal allergens, such as pollen, you should be able to stop taking your medication after the risk of exposure has passed. These diseases are so common that it might seem like the diagnosis and treatment are straightforward and that any doctor should be able to administer the most effective therapies. Consider telling your teachers, work colleagues and friends, so they can give you your adrenaline injection in an emergency, while waiting for an ambulance. Your allergist may prescribe medicines such as antihistamines, decongestants, nose (nasal) sprays, or eye drops.

Ear infections often clear up within a couple of days, but paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used to help relieve fever and pain. If you’re taking them for the first time, see how you react to them before driving or operating heavy machinery. If allergic rhinitis doesn’t respond to treatment, your GP may choose to add to your original treatment.Don’t use them for more than a week at a time, as using them for long periods can make your symptoms worse. For example, digestive tract changes may impact immune responses and lead to the development of food allergies.

Antibodies are special proteins in the blood that are usually produced to fight viruses and infections.Without treatment, allergy symptoms may last for weeks or months until you’re no longer around the allergen. Antibiotics — medicines used to treat infections — are the most common type of medicines that cause allergic reactions. If you have forced air heating or air conditioning in your house, use high-efficiency filters and follow regular maintenance schedules.