Allergies and Asthma Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is an allergen?

An allergen is a substance that causes allergies.

Define 'atopic body.'

An atopic body refers to a hypersensitive body that overreacts to allergens.

What occurs during anaphylactic shock?

Anaphylactic shock is a sudden, severe allergic reaction causing symptoms like low blood pressure and loss of consciousness.

List two common allergens found in the environment.

Common environmental allergens include pollen and mold fungi. Signup and view all the answers

What role do mast cells play in allergic responses?

Mast cells release histamine and heparin, which are involved in allergic reactions. Signup and view all the answers

How can allergic reactions differ among individuals?

Allergic reactions can vary because individuals may be sensitive to different allergens. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main characteristic of autoimmune responses?

Autoimmune responses involve the body's immune system attacking its own proteins. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the symptoms when allergens enter through the respiratory tract.

Symptoms can include watering eyes, runny nose, cough, and shortness of breath. Signup and view all the answers

What are common allergens that trigger asthma in individuals?

Pollen, fungal spores, house dust, animal hair, and skin debris. Signup and view all the answers

What symptoms may indicate aspirin-induced asthma?

Symptoms include a runny nose, nausea, vomiting, wheezing, and dyspnea. Signup and view all the answers

How does exercise affect individuals with asthma?

Strenuous exercise can cause bronchospasm, leading to fatigue, wheezing, and dyspnea. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how bronchial constriction occurs in asthma.

Bronchial constriction occurs when individuals with hypersensitivity are exposed to allergens. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of crushman spirals in asthma?

Crushman spirals are thick, gelatin-like substances found in sputum typical for asthma. Signup and view all the answers

What are the main components of asthma treatment?

Protection from allergens, drug treatment, and immunotherapy. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of hyposensitization in asthma management?

Hyposensitization reduces the patient's sensitivity to allergens. Signup and view all the answers

What changes occur in the lungs as asthma progresses?

The lung expands, elastic tissue stretches, and a barrel chest may form. Signup and view all the answers

What is the most reliable way to protect oneself from AIDS?

The most reliable way to protect oneself from AIDS is to avoid unprotected sex and preferably practice monogamy. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to ensure new razors are used at the barber?

New razors should be used to prevent the transmission of bloodborne diseases, including HIV. Signup and view all the answers

What actions should be taken regarding blood donation by individuals with risky behaviors?

Individuals with risky behaviors should not donate blood due to the potential for contamination and should contact an AIDS hotline. Signup and view all the answers

What is food allergy and how does it occur?

Food allergy is a systemic allergic reaction where the body mistakenly identifies a food component as harmful and produces antibodies against it. Signup and view all the answers

How does the method of food preparation influence allergic reactions?

Cooking food for an extended period can reduce its allergic properties, while frying may create new allergens. Signup and view all the answers

What role do health institutions play in controlling the safety of blood products?

Health institutions are responsible for testing blood and blood products, as well as overseeing tissue and organ transplants. Signup and view all the answers

What precautions should HIV-positive women take concerning pregnancy?

HIV-positive women should be advised against pregnancy, and if they choose to proceed, they must be informed about the associated risks and start drug treatment. Signup and view all the answers

List some common foods that can cause allergic reactions.

Common foods that can cause allergic reactions include cow's milk, eggs, fish, nuts, and certain fruits like strawberries and melons. Signup and view all the answers

What triggers allergic symptoms in latex allergy?

Allergic symptoms develop when the level of antibodies reaches a certain level upon contact with latex-containing substances. Signup and view all the answers

What substances, rather than latex proteins, are responsible for latex allergies during processing?

Mercaptobenzothiazole, thiuram, and carbamate are used in the processing of natural latex. Signup and view all the answers

List at least two symptoms of latex allergy.

Symptoms include redness, itching, and crusting on the skin. Signup and view all the answers

What are some serious allergic reactions associated with latex allergy?

Latex allergy can cause allergic rhinitis, asthma, and in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. Signup and view all the answers

Who is particularly at risk for developing latex allergies?

Individuals with atopic structures, those undergoing repetitive surgery, and healthcare workers are at higher risk. Signup and view all the answers

What precaution should individuals with a latex allergy take?

They should avoid contact with latex and carry automatic adrenaline injectors. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the concept of immune tolerance in the context of autoimmune diseases.

Immune tolerance is the ability to recognize the body's own tissues without mounting an immune response. Signup and view all the answers

How does age influence the incidence of autoimmune diseases?

The incidence of autoimmune diseases tends to increase with age due to reduced immune tolerance. Signup and view all the answers

What common medications can cause urticaria?

Aspirin, vitamins, and anti-flu drugs can cause urticaria. Signup and view all the answers

How does the emotional state of a person influence chronic urticaria treatment?

The emotional state affects the disease's course, and managing stress can improve treatment outcomes. Signup and view all the answers

What are the characteristics of atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis manifests as chronic, pink-colored, itchy rashes that may become widespread or localized. Signup and view all the answers

Why is moisturizing important for patients with atopic dermatitis?

Moisturizing helps to combat extremely dry skin, which can exacerbate symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Signup and view all the answers

What role do antihistamines play in the treatment of atopic dermatitis?

Antihistamines function as anti-itching agents to relieve itching during exacerbations. Signup and view all the answers

What precautions should be taken when allergens are identified in atopic dermatitis patients?

Patients should take measures to avoid identified allergens such as cow's milk and house dust mites. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of treatment concerning local corticosteroids for skin lesions?

Local corticosteroids should be applied as a thin layer on active lesions, considering the duration of use. Signup and view all the answers

How does latex allergy develop?

Latex allergy develops after prolonged contact with latex, typically taking 3-5 years for antibodies to form. Signup and view all the answers

What immediate treatment should be administered after contact with an allergen?

Epinephrine should be administered for vasoconstriction and antihistamines to reduce capillary permeability. Signup and view all the answers

What does HIV stand for and what is its main effect on the immune system?

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, and it weakens the immune system by decreasing the number of CD4+ lymphocytes. Signup and view all the answers

How is AIDS defined and what role does HIV play in its progression?

AIDS is a contagious viral disease caused by the HIV virus, which destroys the immune system's ability to resist infections. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mode of HIV transmission among adults?

The primary mode of transmission is unprotected sexual intercourse, accounting for 80-85% of cases. Signup and view all the answers

Identify two other ways HIV can be transmitted besides sexual contact.

HIV can be transmitted through blood via shared needles and from mother to child during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Signup and view all the answers

What is the estimated rate of HIV transmission from an HIV-positive mother to her child without treatment?

Without treatment, the estimated transmission rate from an HIV-positive mother to her child is around 30%. Signup and view all the answers

What are some methods through which HIV can be transmitted in healthcare settings?

HIV can be transmitted through uncontrolled blood transfusions and the use of non-sterilized sharp instruments. Signup and view all the answers

What role do corticosteroids play in the treatment of allergic reactions?

Corticosteroids are used for their anti-inflammatory action in treating conditions like urticaria and angioneurotic edema. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Medical Nursing II - Immune System and Allergic Diseases and Nursing Care

Course information: Medical Nursing II, taught by Asst. Prof. Dr. Ufuk Kaya, Spring Term 2023-2024, at Cyprus International University.

Allergen: A substance that causes allergies.
Atopic Body: A hypersensitive body.
Hypersensitivity: An exaggerated response of the immune system to a harmless substance.
Shock Organ/Target Organ: The organ where the sensitive cell is located.
Autoimmune: The immune system's response against its own proteins.
Allergic Answer: Sensitivity to substances normally harmless to an organism.
Mast Cell/Basophil Cell: Susceptible cells in connective tissue containing heparin and histamine granules.
Anaphylaxis: A sudden, immediate reaction caused by the combination of antigen and antibody.

Allergy and Hypersensitivity

Allergy is the body's overreaction to a foreign substance (allergen).
The immune system's overreaction causes symptoms in the patient.
Allergies are a personal situation. Different substances trigger different allergies.

What are the most common allergens?

Allergens vary from person to person.
Common allergens include house dust mites, pollen, mold, fungi, food allergens, animal allergens, and drug allergens.

If the allergen is in the air...

Allergens in the air cause symptoms in eyes, nose, lungs (e.g., watering eyes, runny nose, cough).
Allergens swallowed cause reactions in the mouth, stomach, intestines (e.g., constipation, gas, diarrhea).
Allergic response can become severe. Release of mast cells leads to low blood pressure, shock, loss of consciousness, and potentially death (anaphylactic shock).

How are allergic diseases diagnosed?

Patient history is crucial. Symptoms after allergen exposure should be completely normal between attacks.
Skin testing helps diagnosis (Many allergens may not be detected with skin test alone).
High IgE levels in the blood are a common indication.
Diagnostic methods vary based on the disease type.

Treatment in Allergic Diseases

Prevention is most effective. Avoid allergens as much as possible (e.g., pets, dust-containing items, irritants).
Indoor precautions: avoid dusty environments, adjust temperature/humidity, keep windows closed during high pollen seasons, use leather/vinyl instead of carpets/rugs/blankets, minimize house dust.
Further precautions: Remove allergens from living environments (house dust), keep few items in the room, frequently clean with wet cloth, refrain from cleaning when people are in the room.
Other preventative steps: avoid plants/pets in the house; use specially prepared bedding, washing linens regularly.
Take precautions in settings and environments where symptoms are triggered/worsened.

Treatment in Allergic Diseases (Drug Treatment)

Antihistamines: Prevent histamine's effects but can cause drowsiness.
Corticosteroids: Suppress the immune system. Effective in emergencies but have many long-term side effects, such as an increased susceptibility to infections, elevated blood sugar. Possible issues such as stomach complaints and ulcers.
Mast Cell Stabilizers: Used in Asthma, and some bronchodilator medications.
Vaccine Treatment: Effective for some, but with a limited patient group; involves repeated small doses of the allergen to decrease sensitivity.

Allergic Rhinitis

Inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane is rhinitis.
Allergic rhinitis is caused by allergic factors.

Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis

Continuous or sporadic sneezing.
Itching in the nose,
Runny nose.
Nasal congestion.
Post-nasal drip.
Tickle in the throat.
Eyes that tear, are reddish, and itchy,
Ear fullness, rustle-like sensation.
Head/ear pain.
Impaired sense of smell.

Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis

Allergen protection (elimination).
Drug therapy.
Immunotherapy (vaccination treatment).

Asthma

Symptoms vary depending on the affected areas.
Common symptoms: dry cough, wheezing, tightness in the chest, shortness of breath.
Other symptoms: bronchiole narrowing, bronchi narrowing, mucus clogging the airway.
Triggers: Upper respiratory tract infections, polluted air, pollen, exercise, some nutrients, additives, and changes in the air.

Asthma Etiology

Extrinsic Asthma: IgE-mediated, common between 2-50 years of age. Allergens like pollen, fungal spores, house dust mites, animal hair and skin debris.
Intrinsic Asthma: Bacterial allergens are implicated. Common before age 2 and after 50.
Aspirin-induced asthma: Manifestations: runny nose, nausea, vomiting, wheezing, dyspnea, up to cyanosis. Onset within 20 minutes to 2 hours of aspirin ingestion.
Exercise-Induced Asthma: Strenuous exercise can trigger bronchospasm in some people. Symptoms: fatigue, wheezing, dyspnea occur in the periods when the individual is tired.

Asthma Signs and Symptoms

Difficulty in expiration, wheezing, and dyspnea.
Residual volume increases as the disease progresses.
Lung expansion and chest expansion.
Possible barrel-chest formation in certain cases.

Asthma Signs and Symptoms (more detail)

Alveoli and ventilation-perfusion ratio are affected. Acid-base balance is disturbed.
Respiratory alkalosis usually occurs initially due to hyperventilation.
Respiratory acidosis may follow if the airways become blocked.
Eosinophils may be present in sputum.
Thick, sticky sputum during attacks may contain 5 mm-2 cm gelatin-like substance (crushman spirals).

Asthma Treatment

Protecting from allergens.
Drug treatment.
Immunotherapy/vaccination treatments.

Anaphylaxis

Sudden, severe, systemic reaction to an allergen.
Occurs within minutes of exposure.
Requires immediate intervention.
Triggering substances: Parenteral drug, vaccine, serum applications, proteins (hormones, enzymes), some nutrients.

Anaphylaxis Symptoms

Local symptoms include redness, urticaria, itching, angioedema (swelling).
Cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, skin, mucous membrane symptoms appear within 30 minutes.

Anaphylaxis Treatment

It's an emergency.
Eliminate contact with allergen (e.g., epinephrine for vasoconstriction).
Antihistamines to eliminate capillary permeability by addressing histamine's effects.
Corticosteroids for anti-inflammatory action (e.g., urticaria and angioneurotic edema).
Aminophylline for bronchospasm.

HIV

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that weakens the immune system by settling within it.
The number of CD4+ lymphocytes (the virus' target) progressively decreases.
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is a contagious viral disease caused by HIV.
HIV affects and destroys the body's immune system, reducing its ability to fight germs.

How is AIDS Transmitted?

Primarily through unprotected sexual intercourse (80-85% of transmissions).
Transmitted through semen (men) or vaginal secretions (women).
Transmission through damaged tissues during intercourse (man-to-woman, woman-to-man, among others).
Transmission through contact with blood: uncontrolled blood transfusions, non-sterile medical sharps, shared needles.
Transmission from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, and/or breastfeeding.

Prevention of AIDS

Use condoms during sexual intercourse.
Ensure blood products are properly tested.
Use sterile medical instruments, and don't share needles or other sharp objects.

Methods that do not transmit HIV

Daily contact (same room, school, air).
Contact with saliva, tears, sweat, sneezing, coughing, urine, stool.
Handshakes, skin contact, caressing, hugging, cheek/hand kisses.
Food, drinks, eating utensils, glasses, plates, telephones, toilet, showers, faucets, swimming pools, saunas.
Bites from mosquitoes, other insects, or pets.

AIDS Test

Detects HIV antibodies in the blood using the ELISA method.
Requires 3 months to show.
A positive test doesn't definitively confirm HIV.
Further confirmation with Western Blot required to diagnose HIV.

Clinical Symptoms: Respiratory System

Pneumonia (fungal) is the common lung disease in HIV patients.
Tuberculosis incidence is significantly greater among HIV-positive patients.
Treatment drugs need careful consideration between the patient's HIV medication and tuberculosis regimen because of potential interactions.

Clinical Symptoms: Oral Cavity

Many lesions can occur in the oral cavity, including fungal infections (thrush).
Difficulty swallowing and impaired taste are common symptoms.
Esophageal candidiasis (fungal infection) is a common complaint.
Stomach/small intestine problems causing nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain are frequent problems.

Clinical Symptoms: Cardiac Involvement

Fluid accumulation in the pericardium (pericardial effusion) is a common cardiac problem in HIV patients.
Hematological disorders (e.g., anemia) can be present.
Gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms may also occur.

Clinical Symptoms; Opportunistic Infections

Toxoplasmosis: Caused by Toxoplasma gondii. Symptoms include fever, headaches, and weakness.
Cryptococcosis: Caused by Cryptococcus neoformans. Meningitis is a frequent symptom.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection: A common infection in HIV patients. This can affect the retina, causing vision problems. It often presents with neurological symptoms .
AIDS-Dementia Complex: A syndrome that causes mental, motor, and/or behavioral problems.

Clinical Symptoms; Cancers

Kaposi's Sarcoma (KS): One of the most common cancers in HIV patients. It often presents reddish/violet skin lesions that can become widespread.
Lymphoma: A cancer that arises from lymph cells. Fever, weight loss, and enlarged lymph nodes are possible symptoms.
Anal Cancer: Also frequently found in HIV patients.

Treatment of HIV Infection

No treatment exists that completely eliminates the virus, however.
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is used to control viral replication.
ART involves a variety of medications.

Protection from AIDS

Condoms should always be used during sexual intercourse.
Ensure that blood products undergo proper testing.
Sterile instruments should be used for needle applications etc.
Control of blood and blood products, tissue and organ transplants are managed by health institutions; sharings of piercing/cutting tools (e.g., needles, etc.) should be avoided.
HIV-positive women should be carefully counseled about pregnancy.

Food Allergy

Systemic reactions to food in sensitive individuals.
Body mistakes food components (mostly proteins) as harmful, prompting an immune response (antibody).

Food Allergy Etiology

Any food can be an allergen.
Cooking methods and the individual's atopic nature influence the allergic reaction.
Long-term cooking may reduce allergenicity, while methods like frying might create new allergens.
Allergic reactions can occur within 12 hours of ingestion.

Food Allergy Symptoms

Skin: Itching, burning, redness, fever, chills, tingling, sweating, red spots, pimples.
Eyes: Blurred vision, pain, watering, strabismus, light intolerance, redness, swelling.
Cardiovascular: Palpitations in the heart, increased pulse rate, fever, chills, bruising in hands, fainting, pain in the vertebrae.
Digestive system: Dryness in the mouth, increased salivation, bitterness in the tongue, toothache, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea.
Nervous system: Headaches, migraines, drowsiness, slowness, malaise, crying spells, tension, hyperactivity, nervousness, concentration disorders, laughing, stuttering.
Respiratory system: Shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, bronchial mucus formation, nasal congestion, sneezing, itching in the nose, sore throat.
Urogenital system: Frequent and painful urination, inability to control urination, itching.
Movement system: Fatigue, muscle weakness, joint and muscle aches tension, chest and back pain

Food Allergy Diagnosis

Patient history is critical in diagnosis.
An elimination diet is used, where foods are gradually reintroduced, one at a time to identify the triggering substance(s). The diet cuts out all nutrients, starting with the least allergenic foods and introducing one new nutrient each time.

Food Allergy Treatment and Care

Elimination: Removing allergenic foods from the diet.
Symptomatic Drug Therapy: Addressing symptoms in the affected organ with drugs.
Immunotherapy (vaccine treatment): This is less commonly used now.

Gastrointestinal Allergy (GIA)

Shock organ is the gastrointestinal tract.

GIA Etiology

Foods (e.g., eggs, cow's milk, wheat, fish, tomatoes, nuts, chocolate) are common causes.
Also, oral/injection of drugs like insulin, penicillin, and others.
Hormones, infections, emotional factors, extreme fatigue, changes in weather, hot/cold/spicy/raw foods, too oily/too pulpy foods.

GIA Signs and Symptoms

Recurrent abdominal pain is a common feature.
Insomnia, restlessness.
Oral/pharyngeal issues (dermatitis, edema, aphthae, bad breath, taste disturbance).
Difficulty swallowing, pain in the esophagus or gastrointestinal tract.
Epigastric pain or heaviness.
Nausea, vomiting
Cardiospasm, pyloric spasm.
Intestinal symptoms (diarrhea, constipation, colic).
Rectal/anal symptoms (dermatitis, pruritis, bleeding).
Other possible signs are possible.

GIA Diagnosis

Family history of allergies and recurring symptoms/signs.
Presence of eosinophils in blood, stool, and gastrointestinal (GI) mucus.

GIA Treatment and Care

Preventing the triggering substance(s).
Medications: e.g., drugs that could be involved in addressing related issues.
Use of normal hygiene in regards to diet, and/or treatments.
Removal of allergenic food from the diet.
Treatment of symptoms for the affected shock organ.
Immunotherapy (vaccination treatment) is less common now.

Urticaria (Hives)

Common skin lesion, not a disease itself.
Itchy and swollen (edematous) plaques of varying sizes (ranging from millimeters to centimeters).
Surrounded by redness.
Can occur due to allergies, infections.

Urticaria and Angioedema

Urticaria involves skin rash, whereas angioedema relates to deep skin/internal organ swelling.
Urticaria is an itchy swelling on the skin with red bumps or blisters.
Angioedema involves swelling in the deeper tissues of the skin, potentially affecting internal organs like the throat, lips, eyes, or genital area.
Both can result from allergic reactions, infections, or other factors.
Diagnosis and treatment often involve history, physical exams, and tests.

Urticaria Treatment

Identifying and removing the cause is key.
Antihistamines or corticosteroids address symptoms.

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

Chronic, recurrent, pink-colored, itchy rashes with a rough surface.
Lesions can be widespread or localized to an area.
Frequently worsened by scratches.
Possible skin changes: thickening, streaking, peeling, or darkening of the skin.

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) Treatment

Protecting the skin (keeping it moisturized).
Avoiding causative allergens.
Topical corticosteroids for active periods.
Anti-itch medications (antihistamines).

Latex Allergy

A new form of allergy, increasing in prevalence.
Person must be exposed to latex for a prolonged time (e.g., 3-5 years).
IgE antibodies form against latex proteins.
Symptoms manifest when exposed to latex-containing products.
Symptoms include redness, itching, discomfort, potentially severe reactions like asthma.

Latex Allergy Treatment

Avoidance of latex contact.
Identification and appropriate precautions.
Emergency treatment (e.g., automatic adrenaline/epinephrine injection) for individuals with severe reactions should have a visible marker.

Who is at risk for Latex Allergy

People with atopic predisposition.
Individuals with a history of multiple surgeries (especially congenital ones relating to urological issues or urinary tract problems).
Those requiring frequent use of urinary catheters.
People in professions involving latex (e.g., healthcare workers, rubber industry).
Individuals with other allergies or skin conditions.

Immune Deficiency Diseases

Congenital Immune Deficiency: Deficiencies present from birth.
Post-Secondary Immune Deficiency: Developing later in life due to factors like severe illnesses, immunosuppressive therapies, or nutritional insufficiency.
Examples: immunosuppressive therapy, Hodgkin lymphoma, HIV, malnutrition.

Autoimmune Diseases

Body's immune system identifies its own tissues as "foreign" and attacks them.
Rheumatic fever: Immune response affecting joint tissues, specifically heart valve tissues.
Glomerulonephritis: Immune response targeting the glomeruli of the kidneys.
Myasthenia gravis: Immune response affecting acetylcholine receptors.
Lupus erythematosus: Immune response targeting many body tissues simultaneously.

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This quiz explores key concepts related to allergies and asthma, including definitions, physiological responses, and management strategies. Participants will answer questions on allergens, the role of mast cells, symptoms of asthma, and the significance of various treatments. It's a comprehensive overview for anyone seeking to understand these respiratory conditions.