Allergies Brochure English

ALLERGIES
PATIENT INFORMATION
This brochure provides information about Allergies.

It is designed to respond to questions most frequently
asked by patients and their families.
Department of Medicine
The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi

What causes allergy?
Allergy producting substances or allergens can cause a response in the immune

system which results in the production of a special antibody (immunoglobulin
E or IgE). IgE brings about an allergic inflammatory response or swelling of
tissues. Exposure to only small amounts of the offending allergen in the air,
skin contactants, foods or medicines taken orally can cause typical allergy
symptoms.
What is dust allergy?
Dust mite, a living insects from the

spider family found in indoor dust,
is the most common cause of
allergy in Karachi. An allergic
reaction to dust mite can cause a
veriety of problems like a runny or
blocked nose, itcy, watery eyes,
skin rash, sneezing, wheezing,
coughing, difficulty in breathing
and sinus infections.
Why does indoor house dust cause allergic reations?
House dust is a mixture of many allergens. Its content may vary from home
to home, but the most common allergy triggers are: Dust mites cockroaches,
molds and animals. Outdoor dust usually does not cause ellergy symptoms.
Ways to reduce house dust allergens are as follows:
1. Remove wall-to-wall carpets from the bedroom if possible. If you are

allergic, wear a special filter mask (N95) while dusting, sweeping or
vacuuming.
2. Keep pets out of the bedroom at ALL times. It is best to remove the animal
from the home.
3. Cover mattresses and pillows with covers made of special material which
traps dust mites. Wash all bed linens regularly using hot water. (Dust mites
allergy).
4. Do not leave out uncovered food at night. Use roach traps. Schedule regular
proffesional pest control for cockroach, mouse and mold allergy.
5. Normal housekeeping may not be enough to get rid of house dust
allergies.
1
What is cockroach allergy?
Many houses have dust that
contains parts of cockroaches. You
do not have to actually see
coachroaches to have cockroach
allergy symptoms. The allergen is
derived from saliva, fecal material,
secretions, skin casts, and
body parts. It is at the highest
levels in kitchens. Ways to reduce
cockroach exposure are:
1. do not leave out uncovered food at night
2. use roach traps.
3. regular PROFESSIONAL PEST CONTROL measures.
What is mold (fungus) allergy?

Molds or fungi are living
substances which are found in the
air in the spore (seed) form. Mold
spores in the air can cause an
allergic reaction in allergic persons
causing asthma, nasal, eye and
sinus problems. Molds are more
common in high humidity climates
like Karachi. You might not see it
growing on the walls, but it may
still be present in your home. Food products, particularly vegetables, fruits, and
breads provide a good place for molds to grow. Molds in spore form become
airborne and cause allergy symptoms.
What is pollen allergy?

Pollens are protein particles from
flowers or plants like grass, trees
and weeds which get suspended
in the air. They come in contact
with the eyes, nose and lungs
causing symptoms in people who
are allergic to them. Pollen allergy
is comon in areas with rainfall
resulting in vegetation and
greenary. Pollen allergy is usually
seasonal.
2
What is food allergy?
Allergy symptoms can be cause
by allergy to foods. Milk, egg, nuts
and seafood are the common
causes of food allergies. Food
allergies are more common in
children up to 2 years but can
occur at any age. Peanut allergy
can be severe enough to be life-
threatening in some people.
What are skin allergies?

Allergic eczema and contact dermatitis are the most common skin ellergy
condtions. Eczema is due to a general allergy and contact dermatitis is caused
by contact with skin with a particular allergy producing material like hair
color.
Utricaria or hives are red bumps

or welts that appear on the body.
Urticaria is NOT due to an allergy
to an external substance. The rash
can be associated with swelling of
lips and face. Urticaria and swelling
of skin can be caused by an
overactive immune system. It has
to be controlled with anti-histamine
drugs until it resolves by its own.
In case you have any of the above complaints or conditions contact your family
doctor or make an appointment at the allergy clinic.
In case of a severe allergic reaction, which can be life thratening, go to a

hospital emergency department immediately.
For further information, please contact
Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine

Department of Medicine
ICN # S-215657 - July 2018
Allergy Clinic: 3486 5788, 3486 5789

Allergy Clinic Appointment: 3486 0130, 3486 0120

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ALLERGIES

This brochure provides information about Allergies.

The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi

Allergy producting substances or allergens can cause a response in the immune

What is dust allergy?

Dust mite, a living insects from the

Why does indoor house dust cause allergic reations?

1. Remove wall-to-wall carpets from the bedroom if possible. If you are

What is mold (fungus) allergy?

What is pollen allergy?

What are skin allergies?

Utricaria or hives are red bumps

In case of a severe allergic reaction, which can be life thratening, go to a

For further information, please contact

Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine

Allergy Clinic: 3486 5788, 3486 5789

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