Last Updated on May 19, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
An allergy occurs when a person reacts to substances in the environment that are harmless to most people. Allergens cause these allergies. Dust mites, pets, pollen, insects, ticks, moulds, foods and some medications may have such allergens. In this article, we will discuss the reasons behind sudden allergies. We will also explain some recommended natural remedies for sudden allergies.
Why do sudden allergies occur?
Sudden allergies can occur due to a variety of reasons. Here are some possible explanations:
- Sensitisation: Allergies often develop after initial exposure to an allergen. Your immune system recognises the substance as harmful and produces specific antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). Upon subsequent exposure, the IgE antibodies trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals, causing an allergic reaction. This sensitization process may occur without any noticeable symptoms until a later exposure, resulting in a sudden allergic reaction.
- New Allergen Exposure: You may encounter a new allergen that your immune system hasn’t encountered before. This could happen due to changes in your environment, such as moving to a different location or coming into contact with new substances. If you are sensitive to the new allergen, you might experience a sudden allergic reaction upon exposure.
- Cross-Reactivity: Cross-reactivity can occur when your immune system reacts to similar proteins found in different substances. For example, if you are allergic to pollen, you may experience an allergic reaction when consuming certain fruits like apples or cherries due to cross-reactivity. These unexpected reactions can seem sudden if you are unaware of the cross-reactivity.
- Medications: Allergies to medications can develop suddenly, even if you have previously taken them without any issues. Sometimes, the immune system recognizes the medication as a threat, leading to an allergic reaction. It is important to note that allergies to medications are different from adverse drug reactions or side effects.
- Insect Stings and Bites: Certain people may develop sudden allergic reactions to insect stings or bites, such as those from bees, wasps, or ants. The immune system may overreact to the venom, leading to symptoms ranging from localized swelling to more severe reactions like anaphylaxis.
What are some effective natural remedies for immediate allergy relief?
While natural remedies may help alleviate mild allergy symptoms, it’s important to note that they may not be as effective as prescribed medications for more severe or persistent allergies. It’s essential to consult with a medical professional if you experience sudden allergic reactions to determine the specific cause and receive appropriate treatment. An allergist can perform tests to identify potential allergens and develop a management plan to help you avoid triggers or mitigate allergic reactions.
However, here are some natural remedies that some people find helpful in cases of sudden allergies:
- Saline nasal rinses: Irrigating your nasal passages with a saline solution can help clear out allergens and reduce nasal congestion. You can use a neti pot or a nasal irrigation kit to perform the rinse.
- Quercetin: Quercetin is a natural plant compound with antihistamine properties. It is present in foods like onions, grapes, berries, and citrus fruits. Some people take quercetin supplements to help manage allergy symptoms, but it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate dosing and potential interactions with medications.
- Honey: Honey ingestion at a high dose may improve the overall and individual symptoms of an allergic reaction. It can also serve as a complementary therapy for it. However, scientific evidence supporting this is limited, and individual responses on this may vary.
- Probiotics: Some research suggests that certain strains of probiotics, like lactobacillus, may help modulate the immune response and reduce allergy symptoms. Probiotics can be found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi.
- Vitamin C: It may have some antihistamine properties. It can be found in citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, and bell peppers. Consuming foods rich in vitamin C or taking a vitamin C supplement may help reduce allergy symptoms for some individuals.
It’s important to remember that natural remedies may not work for everyone, and their effectiveness can vary. If you have severe or persistent allergy symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend the most suitable treatment options for your specific allergies.
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