What’s going on?
For someone with allergies, the immune system responds to what is an otherwise harmless substance or allergen – like pollen – as a foreign invader similar to a virus or bacterium. The body produces an antibody against the allergen called immunoglobulin E (IgE), which triggers the release of inflammatory chemicals, histamine, leukotrienes, and prosta-glandins. Histamine is responsible for the notorious allergy symptoms of itchy, runny eyes and nose, and sneezing; leukotrienes cause excess mucus production; and prosta-glandins trigger inflammation. 

Who is at risk?
Although there appears to be a genetic component involved, we aren’t born with allergies. Instead they develop after exposure to an allergen. But if both your parents suffered from allergies, there's a 66% chance you will too. If one parent had allergies, your risk drops – but only to 60%. Other identified risk factors include being a firstborn child and being exposed to cigarette smoke or taking antibiotics during your first few years of life. For some people, allergies start in childhood and then go away later in life. Others, however, are lifelong sufferers.

Researchers don’t completely understand why some people get allergies while others don’t. One of the theories is that the overuse of antibiotics destroys the normal flora, the bacteria in the gut. This can lead to an overgrowth of intestinal fungus, secreting toxins that disrupt our immune function. Another possibility is the hygiene theory: our overly-hygienic way of living with little exposure to dirt and bacteria primes the immune system to respond inappropriately when faced with a harmless substance.

Is it cold or allergies?
Common symptoms of allergies include sneezing; watery eyes; runny nose and congestion; sinus pressure and pain; and sometimes cough. Because the same symptoms are often present with a cold, look for the subtle differences that distinguish the two. A cold usually lasts 7 to 10 days, while allergy symptoms persist much longer. With an allergy, mucous secretions are clear or runny, but with a cold are often yellow or greenish. Allergic sneezes often occur in rapid succession and multiple sequences compared to sporadic sneezing with colds. Allergies also cause itchy eyes, nose and roof of the mouth or throat.

Managing allergy symptoms
Over-the-counter medications:
Antihista-mines block the release of histamine, improving symptoms of itching, runny nose and sneezing. Products containing diphenhydramine, a drug used for decades, may cause considerable drowsiness and must only be taken every six hours. Newer products such as Claritin (loratadine), Aerius (desloratadine), and Reactine (cetirizine) cause less drowsiness and can be taken once daily. Side effects with all antihistamines include dry eyes, mouth and nose.

Decongestants help to relieve the pressure of sinus congestion. Pseudoephedrine is a common decongestant ingredient in both cold and allergy products. It works well but can cause insomnia, racing heart, increased blood pressure, and irritability. If you have high blood pressure, glaucoma or prostate enlargement, avoid these decongestants. A variety of nasal sprays can be used, but limit their use to three days because of the risk of rebound congestion. For a non-drug option, try saline spray or use a humidifier with eucalyptus added to the water.

Prescription medications:
For severe allergies use Cromolyn; it prevents the release of histamine. It’s most effective as a preventative (before symptoms start) and is available in eye drops and nasal spray. Taken once daily, Singulair blocks the action of leukotrienes, but may cause headache. Allergy shots containing purified allergen extracts may help to desensitize allergies. Shots are given yearly, prior to allergy season.

Manage and prevent allergies naturally
Nasaleze - a nasal powder that’s inhaled to form a barrier against allergens in the nostrils. Can be used daily to prevent allergy attacks; this remedy has no drug interactions or side effects. Several studies show it reduces allergy symptoms and the need for medication.

Aller-7 - a combination of seven plant extracts that reduces allergy symptoms when taken regularly.

Moducare - a mixture of plant sterols and sterolins (plant fats) that helps balance the immune system.

Probiotics - live bacteria in supplement form help replenish gastrointestinal flora and support immune function. Preliminary research shows benefits for allergies.

Vitamin C - helps reduce histamine production. This immune-boosting supplement works well when taken with quercetin, a flavonoid with antihistamine properties.

Certain foods can also help to support proper immune function, including antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables. Fish, seeds and nuts contain healthy fats that help reduce inflammation, while peppers, onions and garlic help thin mucus. Wasabi (Japanese horseradish) clears the sinuses as long as you can tolerate its strong taste. H&L

Sherry Torkos is a pharmacist and author of The Canadian Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. For more information visit www.sherrytorkos.com